Hunter Jumper

Is Your Horse Left-Handed?

Updated:

September 5, 2014

Jochen Schleese, saddle support, horse saddle fitting, horse dominant side, symmetrical gullet plate

Do you understand the natural asymmetry of the horse and its implications for saddle fit? Most horses are left-handed – or what we refer to as dominant on the left-hand side – and it is usually very obvious. There are many theories as to what causes this predisposition.

The Psychology of Performance Horses

Updated:

August 18, 2014

optimal horse fitness, horse peak performance, equine athletes, Dr. Sebastian McBride, understanding horse temperament, horse temperament testing, horse care, Psychological Factors Affecting Equine Performance, temperament of a young horse, Psychology of Performance Horses, Margaret Evans

It is common knowledge that a horse must achieve optimal physical fitness in order to deliver a peak performance, but what kind of impact does psychological condition have on equine performance? In a competition environment, equine athletes in any discipline may show symptoms of stress, but to what degree does the expression of that stress affect the quality of a jumping round, dressage test, reining pattern, etc.?

Meeting Riding Helmet Safety Head-On

Updated:

August 8, 2014

horse safety, equine safety, horse helmet, equestrian helmet, horse rider safety, horse helmet expiry, horse helmet expiration, horse helmet fit, riding helmet safety, Equine Guelph, horse helmet fitting tips, purchasing equestrian helmet

Experienced riders know that riding is risky business. Falls and other horse-related injuries are a real possibility, and even top riders cannot prevent all riding-related accidents.

Out of the Saddle Exercises to Improve Your Riding Skills

Updated:

January 7, 2014

Belinda Trussell, out of the Saddle Exercises to Improve Your Riding Skills, horse riding exercises, correct rider position

In all disciplines, we want to be able to train our horses to move up the levels and perform different maneuvers for us. Without a supple body, a horse isn’t capable of that... and if you haven’t got a supple rider, then it’s not going to be possible to have a supple horse.