The effects of ground poles vary significantly depending on whether they are performed in-hand or under saddle, at what speed, and in what volume. When poles are broadly recommended by veterinarians and trainers for rehabilitation or conditioning, riders are often left uncertain about the specifics of using them.

While dressage and other arena-based sports place relatively low aerobic demands on horses, emerging studies indicate that improved muscle function may come from occasional exercise in higher heart rate zones. It is worth exploring the use of heart rates during arena training, and how riders can use it to improve physiological responses.

Where Should You Start? By Jec A. Ballou. When spring finally arrives, the sunny riding season ahead can greet riders with both excitement and anxiety. Where do I start, you might wonder as you calculate how unfit your horse has become from a winter of being off work. How long will it take to ease him back to fitness? What sorts of exercises and timelines should I use? In this article, I’ll answer these questions plus offer a simple schedule in addition to some rules you never want to break.

You are who your friends are. That adage can apply to horses, too. How we treat them will often be reflected right back at us - for good or bad. Sometimes the difference between a harsh cue and an appropriate one can be subtle. Pressure can be effective, but intensity and timing can make all the difference.