Winter warriors

Welcome

HORSE&RIDER February 2021

So long, 2020

Many of us will be glad to see the back of this year and it’s easy to dwell on the adversity we’ve all faced. Here at Horse&Rider, we’ve taken a moment to reflect on the positive stories of the year

Horse AND Rider hub

If you want to comment on an article in H&R or share your thoughts, then drop a line to Letters Editor Bethany Searby

New Year, new you?

Many of us feel compelled to make New Year’s resolutions, but can you guarantee success? H&R investigates

La vie en Pau

In a year fraught with cancellations and dreams put on hold, eventer Laura Collett overcame the odds to become 2020’s only CCI5* winner. But a pandemic isn’t all she had to reckon with, as she tells H&R

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Poles to problem-solve

In our new series, dressage rider Tania Grantham’s creative layouts will help you get the most out of polework. The best part? You only need six to get started

Transferable skills

Everything you do in the saddle has a part to play in your success out eventing. This month, Olympian Nicola Wilson helps you hone your skills over showjumps for a precise and positive partnership

Tina Fletcher’s fast form guide

Do you find yourself out of time to tackle the little imperfections in your horse’s way of going? Don’t sweat the small stuft– with Tina’s instant exercises, he’ll look better than ever over fences

THE QUICK FIX Shoulder-in

Want to master a movement in one simple session? Our short, sweet and effective guide will help you do just that. This month, perfect your shoulder-in

Maximising your movements

Join Alice for another boost to your training as she ups the ante with leg-yield and simple changes

Rider health:

is a HCPC Registered and BPS Chartered Clinical Psychologist

Seasonal ailments

By being savvy about these winter woes, you can get ahead and help prevent them. Charlotte Sinclair shows you how

Too close for comfort

As a vet dealing with poor performance problems in horses daily, Sarah Boys Smith knows how feared kissing spines is by owners. But does it truly warrant the reaction?

ASK THE EXPERTS

Bonita Ackerman du Preez is a qualified professional

Management know-how

My friend has started feeding her horse cooked linseed

Mind matters

My horse is very confident with me, but he’s nervous

Veterinary matters

I’ve recently rehomed a horse from a local rescue centre.

Horsey shopping

What is the best way to find a good saddle fitter?

In the saddle

We don’t have any bridleways near my new yard, so I’ve

In brief

I leave a hanging lick in my horse’s stable to keep

Time for something new

Climbing the career ladder, boosting your CV with horsey know-how or just enhancing your understanding of the industry? Achieving your full potential is within your grasp

SAFETY FIRST

The close of the season is a great time to give your kit a once-over and make sure you have everything you need to stay safe in the saddle. Find out how to upgrade your gear with our guide

Put through his paces

With the season coming to a close, there’s no better time to make sure your horse is feeling his best. Plan his winter MOT to leave him feeling ship-shape for the new year

The dos and don’ts of sharing

More and more owners are considering share options for their horses. Thinking of giving it a go? Here’s what you need to consider

Mud, managed

Winter conditions treating you like dirt? Give your seasonal management skills the green light with our colour-coded mud-busting guide

A dog’s life

Dreaming of enjoying life on the yard with your dog, but spending most of your time dealing with the fallout instead? Create some calm in the chaos with H&R readers’ top tips for peaceful cohabitation

Technical stirrups

Our picks to help you stay safe and comfortable in the saddle – no matter your discipline

On the hoof

Have you considered your horse’s diet when it comes to his hoof health? Check out this selection of products designed to offer a little extra support

This month we love

Take a look at some of our favourite horsey products

MY LIFE with horses

Madalaine shares a week of prop painting, long hacks and hunter trial fun with friends