Chetak Horses

Changing it Up

When your horse is laid up and your training is on hold don’t fret!  There are so many other things that you can do, learn or train.  Don’t be afraid to change it up.  Read horse books, go on Youtube and watch your favorite riders, or find another horse to work with.  Use this time to keep yourself sharp and learn something new!  Thankfully my trainer was nice enough to let me work one of her lovely horses.  It was an experience that I thoroughly enjoyed.

The horse I worked today was Casey.  He’s a warm hearted boy with great work ethic!  He’s not as confirmed in his walk and trot as Achates is but his willing attitude makes him joy to ride.  He was responsive to my seat and leg aids and stayed soft in my hands the whole time.  When I asked for more he gave it to me without protest, and when something didn’t click right away he kept trying until he got it.

The best part of the ride was getting the feeling of “riding” back, if that makes sense.  After not being on a horse for about two weeks my timing was off but Casey, forgiving as ever helped me get it back.  I was able to practice my half halts, walk to trot transitions and vice versa, as well as keeping my hands soft and elastic.  The great thing about this is that I’ll have these feelings fresh in my mind once Achates bounces back, and I’ll be able to support him without worrying whether or not I missed a step.  I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better horse or partner to get my confidence and motivation back into gear, and am now more excited than ever to continue on this journey.

The next time your warrior gets laid up or needs a break make sure you keep yourself motivated.  Change it up, find something new and expand your horizons!  Don’t be afraid to experiment and learn something else!  Use this time to push yourself.  That way when your warrior is ready to get back to work you guys will be able to leap into action together and continue right where you left off.