My friends were talking about the most dangerous types of horse-riding activity when someone suggested dressage, and everyone burst into laughter. This moment made me think: Is dressage dangerous? The dangers of dressage are that you or your horse will get injured because of improper training techniques, lack of safety equipment, or working horses on …
My grandson is a big fan of dressage competitions. He loves the stunning sight of rider and horse in sync, performing before large crowds. Recently he has developed an interest in dressage training, which prompted me to research this topic. Horses are trained for dressage in a thorough, systemized process that usually starts when they …
After a full day of horseback riding, my neighbor complained about sore muscles and said his body felt like it does after playing a strenuous sport. His tone implied that he doesn’t consider horseback riding a sport, and I felt stung by his words. But is he right? Horseback riding is a sport; it requires …
Dressage saddles pads perform two purposes -they provide comfort and protection to your horse and give a well-polished look in competitions and dressage events. Typically a dressage saddle comes with a deep seat, long stirrups, and an extended flap. The best dressage saddle pads are the Engel Worldwide, the ECP Air Ride, and the Back …
I’m always amazed at the grace and precision between horses and riders in dressage competitions. Reaching this level of beauty and precision takes immense effort, but are they pushed too hard, is dressage cruel to the animals? Many horses compete at the highest level of dressage and are not treated cruelly. However, some dressage competitions …
When you think about horse racing, the breed of horse that comes to mind is thoroughbred. These horses are legendary racers, but are they good horses? Thoroughbreds are good horses; they have superb agility, fantastic speed, and an exceptional spirit. Although best known as racehorses, they excel in many other equine activities. Thoroughbreds are feisty, …
When I first started looking for a trail horse, I had a specific breed in mind. However, because so many of my friends rode different breeds, I began to wonder which type of horse would fit me best, so I researched horse breeds to find out. The best horse breed depends on the equine activity, …