Safe trail riding
With spring just around the corner, we all feel drawn to leave the indoor arena and explore the great outdoors. Whether it’s a peaceful solo ride with your horse or a group adventure with friends and their mounts, summertime is the perfect season to embrace trail riding. But is it really something every rider can enjoy?
Horses naturally thrive in open spaces, free from fences and buildings. They have a deep-rooted fear of confinement and are instinctively driven to roam, foraging for food and water while traveling miles each day. In the wild, they can always run to safety if they sense danger. Surrounded by their herd, they feel secure, free, and content.
However, not every horse lives this way. Today, truly wild herds are rare, practically a “tourist attraction.” We keep horses for various purposes and often select breeds for specific traits. Breeders carefully combine genetics to produce the ideal horse, designed for peak performance on international stages.
There’s a stark contrast between what we seek in equestrian activities and the natural needs of horses. Even a foal raised in a top-notch facility for a future sports career will feel the “call of the wild” throughout its life. I’m not suggesting we release our horses to see if they can survive! My aim here is to remind us of their innate need for open spaces and movement, deeply embedded in their genes.
If you’re thinking about taking your horse off the property, it’s wise to consider safety first. I’ve witnessed many mishaps that could’ve been avoided with a few simple precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind before heading out.
- Is Your Horse Calm and Reliable in Familiar Settings?
Out in the open, issues can intensify more than they would in a familiar arena. If you’re riding a young, untrained, or tense horse, warm up in a safe area first. This gives you a chance to assess whether your horse is focused, if your equipment is properly fitted, and to gauge your horse’s energy level. Groundwork can be an excellent warm-up for both the horse and rider, helping them physically and mentally prepare.
- Do You Have Control of Pace and Direction in All Gaits?
Whether your horse wears a bit, a bitless bridle, or a training halter, it should respond to basic commands for turns, transitions, and halts, including emergency stops. Even if you’re riding in a group, you might need to take control if your horse spooks or tries to break away. If your horse isn’t manageable, trail riding could be risky.
- Does Your Horse Get Anxious Leaving the Herd?
Some horses feel anxious when separated from the herd. If this sounds familiar, try practicing alone in short sessions close to the herd, gradually increasing the distance. Exercises that require moving each leg in different ways can help refocus your horse’s energy and attention on you.
- Watch for „Herd-Draw” on the Way Back
Often, a horse will walk slowly away from the stable but speed up on the way back. This can be risky if the horse suddenly bolts for home. To manage this, try using engaging exercises—like weaving around trees or doing small circles—to keep your horse’s mind focused. If this isn’t enough, dismount and work from the ground, using calm exercises to provide a sense of safety. Remember, it’s not a competition over “who’s in charge”; it’s about building confidence.
- What Happens When You Get Back?
Instead of immediately rewarding your horse with rest, feed, and the comfort of the herd, try offering breaks or treats during the ride. Then, after returning, give your horse a bit of extra work in the arena or a wash-down, saving the relaxation for after. This can subtly encourage the horse to enjoy outings rather than rushing back to the stable.
- How Spooky is Your Horse?
If your horse is jumpy, you can work on desensitizing exercises with things like tarps, hula hoops, or flags. Allow your horse to approach these objects and explore them in a safe, gradual way. You want to encourage curiosity rather than fear.
- How is Your Horse During Mounting?
Getting on your horse safely is crucial, as many accidents happen at this stage. You should be comfortable mounting from both sides and, ideally, from the ground as well. Mounting from a block is easier on the horse’s back, but there might be times when you’ll need to get on from the ground, so practice both.
- Consider a Walk Instead
Taking your horse for a walk on a lead can be a great alternative to riding. You can introduce your horse to the world beyond the stable while practicing groundwork exercises. Stepping over logs, wading through puddles, and interacting with natural obstacles can build trust and confidence.
Some horses prefer open fields over the monotony of the arena, and many riding exercises can be practiced in the great outdoors. Renowned equestrian Alois Podhajsky emphasized that every horse, regardless of specialization, should train in open areas for a natural, motivating experience.
Trail riding can be a fantastic experience for both you and your horse, but keeping it safe is key. Enjoy the adventure!
Ola Najman
fot. Cecylia Łęszczak
