Bringing a horse back into work after a summer break

Hi!

Lovely that your horse has been out grazing and seems all the better for it. A week off is not very long, so she will not have lost either fitness or muscle.

🥕 How old is your horse? A younger horse in training often needs a slightly longer break a few times a year, doing nothing at all beyond eating, sleeping and being out in the paddock, to let everything she is learning settle.

🥕 Whatever your horse's age, it is a good idea to give her some periods of rest and slightly less intense work. Sometimes summer suits this, sometimes winter. You do not have to do nothing at all with a horse that is resting. Summer is a lovely time to ride and train with your horse, so even during a quieter spell there is plenty you can get up to.

🥕 Head out for a walk in hand or under saddle. Enjoy being out in nature and let the horse walk through her body over different surfaces and types of terrain. It works wonders for forwardness, suppleness, balance and the communication between you.

🥕 Build up the intensity and demands gradually, but take your time and do not rush. The horse develops muscle and improves her fitness through work in walk.

🥕 Make sure the horse gets enough water and salt, especially if you are bringing her back into work in really hot weather.

🥕 In time, you might try training with a new coach. It can be really inspiring and good fun to have a fresh pair of eyes on you, a bit like starting a new class at school after the summer holidays.

I hope that answers your questions. 😃 Make the most of the summer and your horse now 🦄🐴