First ride out in weeks - Advice

K

kirstyhoneyb

Well-Known Member
Joined
27 July 2009
Messages
76
Visit site
I took my mare out for the first time in weeks. We werent out for long as I need to build her fitness and was abit short of time this mornng.
Anyway the route we took you have to turn back on yourself (not a circular route). She was good as gold on the way but once we turned back she started prancing about. I dont think we took one stride forward all the way home as she was messing about going sideways, skipping about. I kept stopping and making her stand but as soon as we set off she started again.
Whats the best way to deal with this?
 
take her out, work her harder, get rid of the excess energy - she's just fresh.

Making her stop like that is just winding her up - either sit soft, lighten the contact and allow her to walk - or just trot on briskly and get rid of the energy that way. Holding her up will just make her cross.
frown.gif


I never turn back on myself on hacks - it can teach a horse to be nappy - most of mine would play up and turning round and going straight home - not a good habit to start really, sorry!
 
lol - however did you get home if you didn't take at least one stride forward!?
tongue.gif


Sounds like she needed to do a bit more. I agree that circular routes are better, but sometimes it can't be helped. I woud try and tire her out on the way out if you can.

If she plays up on the way back, try and relax & give her a long rein if you can - if you can't trot on & then try and walk. Holding back can wind them up even further!
 
My old boy was an arse this morning as well he tends to prance at the best of times. I find its better to keep him moving forward as if i try and stop him and stand he'll get frustrated and start to rear. I also tend to trot up hills and on flat bits of road to tire him on the way out!!
 
I get that on a good day. The weather is cold mares set up in this. If it's really bad have a quick 10 minute lunge first then ride remember horses are at their best when they know they are returning home...enjoy
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top