Winter time
With winter closing in the days are getting shorter and the trails muddier. Many of us ride much less during the winter months than during the sunny and warm autumn or spring days. Inconsistent work can lead to trouble with some of our senior horses -as they move less, their joint issues or chronic problems can start acting up, making them more prone to moving even less, causing even more stiffness... Here are some tips on how to keep your senior horse fit and moving well in the winter months:
In the colder weather, the joints and muscles need a longer time to warm up. If your horse seems tends to get a little stiff in the winter increase the warm-up time to at least 20 minutes of brisk walking, before you ask your horse to do anything else.
If you don't have time for a longer warm-up, skip the riding and head out for a walk. Gentle walking on the trails will get their blood flowing and their joints lubricated - with the added bonus that you will be doing some exercise yourself!
Focus on core strength. When the days are too short to ride or the arena is too frozen, take time for some core conditioning. Carrot stretches, tail pulls and belly lifts are great exercises for senior horses. If you can, add some gentle walking over cavalletti. Don't forget that having a strong core is essential for a healthy back!
