Everything Horse magazine November 2015 | Page 49

Hacking out this Winter With the summer and spring local showing season slowing down winter is a great time to take to the roads with a group of friends to keep your horses fitness in peak condition over the winter. Here we look at some points to take into consideration when hacking out with Equestrian.com W ith winter well and truly here and the darker nights coming round very fast each day it is often hard to find the time to ride. Soggy fields and arena’s often mean the only way some owners can exercises their horses is out on the concrete. This may mean riding in the mornings or evenings when light is lacking. Whilst it is important to continue to hack your horse throughout the winter months, especially as it provides stimulation and good fitness work after perhaps long periods in the stable, it comes with added risks, due to the poor light and other factors. First things first.... If you are able to ride during the day, you may not have a problem with light but bad weather can create poor conditions on the road for you to contend with. High visibility clothing should be worn at all times when X