Everything Horse UK Everything Horse Magazine, August 2018. | Page 29

ADAPT YOUR WARM-UP
Adapt your warm-up to suit your situation, whilst
incorporating movements you and your horse are
familiar with. Remember that your horse’s muscles
need to be warmed up gradually and that even a
slight drop in temperature can have an effect on
this, so every time you sit on your horse, gauge
how he or she feels. If they feel slightly stiffer
one day, then ride sympathetically and allow a bit
longer to warm up. And don’t forget that after
a hard work they too can wake up feeling a bit
stiff, so again be aware of your horse’s ability and
needs both in the warm-up and always consider
the level of work you are asking him or her to
undertake.
OTHER HORSES
Make sure that your horse is used to warming
up with other horses in an arena before taking
him to a show. Ride at home with other horses if
possible or hire a school with some friends; this
will help ensure your horse is happy working in
with other horses and also help you gauge how
his or her concentration levels fare! Remember to
ride left to left in the arena and keep an eye out
for other competitors and where they are going.
Allow time to remove your boots or bandages/
change of jacket etc, so that you are ready to
go into your te