WHO SAYS A TRAIL HORSE ISN’T A PERFORMANCE HORSE? The Trail As A Training Tool by Angelia Robinette-Dublin and Jenny Lance It seems that many folks believe that a trail horse is just a horse that doesn’t show. Many believe that a trail horse should be a lot less expensive to buy than a show horse. We here at “Live To Ride” beg to differ! We believe a good trail horse is invaluable. Not only is your trail horse invaluable, the trail itself can be a valuable training “arena” for any discipline. Break things up, get outdoors, be creative, give your horse a new view, and train in natural surroundings! For any discipline, build up your horse’s muscles by walking and trotting hills (though you don’t want to make trotting a habit of this as a trail rider.) Walking up hills builds the horse’s hind end by allowing him to use his torque. Work up to this slowly with walking first if your horse isn’t used to it! Build endurance by cantering for miles. It sure beats going around and around in circles and its easier on their joints. The outdoors is great for your horse’s mind and well-being, not to mention your own. If speed events are your game, see trees as stakes and other obstacles as barrels. Run down to a point on the trail and back. Make a tight turn at the end of a trail. Like Western Pleasure more? Practice different speeds from one point to another on the trail. See how quiet and precise you can get your cues and how slow you can get your jog or lope. Use uphill to help with the slow downs. If reining is your deal, you can also practice quiet cues and speed control on the trail along with your stops. Pick out a point ahead, lope to it, sit, and stop. How well did you do? We don’t recommend sliding on the trail because the footing isn’t safe, but you can improve your cues and timing. Get your horse’s shoulders to move lightly and easily from one side of the trail to the next, and toss in a little spin if you find an open area. Even the dressage horse can benefit from the strengthening of trail riding, as well as the relaxation aspect. In addition, you can practice leg yields from side to side on the trail, lengthening of stride (and have fun doing it), and any other movements with a little thought and creativity. Jumpers can find all kinds of natural obstacles. Just be sure you know the terrain and keep yourself safe. The trail is the competitive trail horse’s candy land so just keep thinking of new ways to improve your communication with your horse. The trail isn’t just for the Performance Trail horse. The trail is a great training ground for all disciplines. Don’t let us have all the fun, as you see some friends and us posing for a picture in the river. Get outside and spice up your training regimen. Be sure to practice in the arena at home on the ground and in the saddle with obstacles, moving balls, flapping tarps, and more before heading outside of a safe enclosure. Listen to your horse, watch his ears and behavior, and don’t forget to boot up your horse to protect his legs. Stay safe! Submitted by Professional Trainers Angelia Robinette-Dublin and Jenny Lance at Live to Ride: www.LiveToRideHorses.com