How should you ride for a more sustainable horse?

The rider's seat and balance have a huge influence on the horse's ability to work correctly and stay sound under saddle. So I would say one of the most important parts of keeping a horse sound in its work is a balanced rider, one who takes responsibility for their own body on the horse's back. Work hard on your own balance and evenness from side to side. Train off the horse as well. A rider who is out of balance and loads the horse unevenly from the back makes it hard for the horse to work correctly, whatever the exercises and wherever you ride.

The next important part, in my view, is groundwork. There the horse can learn to take responsibility for its own body, and note, without any restraining gadgets. Here the horse can work freely, without a rider on its back to interfere. Vary the work with walks in the woods and over country, for instance. Walking over poles set at different distances on the arena is a good exercise for body control. Changes of tempo, transitions and so on all help.

Beyond the work itself, check whether the horse's natural needs are met. A horse with field companions, plenty of turnout, large paddocks with undulating terrain and long periods of grazing and foraging has good conditions to settle and thrive. 🦄🐴