Hill work out hacking

Here is a very effective exercise that both supples and strengthens the horse.

Riding slowly down a gentle slope is excellent for building the muscles the horse needs for good carriage and balance, which it relies on to carry a rider well.

Walk down the slope slowly, step by step.

Keep a stable seat and avoid holding too much on the reins. Carry your hands in front of you with a light, soft contact. Slow the horse with your seat first, helping with the hand if needed by taking it forward and up on a restraining rein-aid.

The aim is for the horse to wait for each step and to lift its forehand, so that it genuinely carries itself.

It can feel wobbly at first, but the exercise is far more challenging than it looks, and very effective with it.

Good luck!