Back Problems bring many a Rider’s career to a grinding halt. As well as taking care of our horse’s health, we need to take care of our own, especially the structural wellbeing of your body. One of the most vulnerable parts of any Rider’s anatomy is his or her back. The Rider’s Pain-Free Back has been around for a few months now and is receiving some excellent reviews. The description reads:-

“Explaining the impact of horseback riding on the human back in easy-to-understand terms, this guide illustrates how various movements in the saddle affect a rider’s back and outlines straightforward steps that can be taken immediately to help keep riders ready to saddle up. Too many riders suffer from back injury, stress, or strain and consequently experience pain when in the saddle or are unable to ride at all. This indispensable guide has step-by-step exercises for strengthening the body for riding, guidance on horse selection and tack selection, and tips on which horse sports are appropriate for riders with various back problems. Traditional and alternative treatments for back pain are also discussed, as are the special considerations of pregnant and elderly riders.”

The writer, Dr Warson, is both a neuro-surgeon and a rider so he has full understanding of the issues involved – and doesn’t blame all your back problems on riding which makes a pleasant change! Full of practical advice with useful exercises and helpful comments I would suggest that a copy of The Rider’s Pain-Free Back should be on every Equestrian’s bookshelf.

Post from: Horse Facts and Equestrian Sports

The Rider’s Pain Free Back – Book Review

Post from: Horse Facts and Equestrian Sports

The Rider’s Pain Free Back – Book Review

I came across an excellent ebook the other day which was drawn to my attention by a fellow rider when discussing training methods to help deal with some of the behavior problems you can encounter with your horse. When you first buy your horse you have to spend some time getting to know each other and it is during this time that you may discover problems that have not been addressed by the previous owner.

Horse Training Success is full of very practical information on how to train your horse into good behavior patterns presented in a step by step fashion that is easy to find your way around. The book is based around real problems presented by real riders of real horses rather than just a theoretical, airy fairy approach which does nothing for you or your horse. Problems such as biting, bolting, kicking and bucking which can cause nasty injuries are dealt with in a no nonsense fashion which will help both you and the horse to get rid of those unpleasant habits. There are a number of practical approaches to the things that make your horse skittish and jumpy like cars, blowing rubbish and other animals, not to mention getting him into a trailer without a fuss. Feeding time can often cause issues, especially if you have a strong willed horse that likes to take control and I was impressed with some of the solutions presented in the book.

The manual doesn’t only deal with horse behavior problems but also with basic training and riding techniques in plain English with no jargon or waffle – invaluable! Phil Tragear has put together an enormous amount of information and shared the benefit of years of experience both in basic horse training as well as problem management. Horse Training Success is one of the best all round manuals I have come across in a very long time.

Post from: Horse Facts and Equestrian Sports

Horse Training Success

Post from: Horse Facts and Equestrian Sports

Horse Training Success

Horse and Man have co-existed since time immemorial. Without the relationship between horse and man our world would have a very different shape. We are no longer as dependent upon horses as we once were, they still play an important part in our lives – who among us has not played games based round riding a horse and racing like the wind towards the horizon. Horses are far more used for relaxation and sport, and the pleasure of their company though there are many still working in farms, ranches and there is still a military use, albeit mainly ceremonial.

The term ‘Equestrian’ has it’s roots in Roman times and comes from the world ‘Equus’ – Horse. The nobility of Rome provided the Cavalry and it is from there the term developed. The Equestrians of Rome were regarded as an elite class as horses were expensive and considerable wealth was required to maintain them.. The Knights were both a political and military force because of the influence their money and skills gave them. They were well compensated for their efforts by the government who needed to keep on good terms with a volatile group.

Horses were also used in more peaceful pursuits and as Rome expanded and drew in Cavalry from it’s allies the Knights lost their influence in politics but became more powerful in the financial world as they were allowed to engage in business unlike the Senators whose role was purely political.

The importance of the horse continued throughout history until relatively recent times. They have always been a valuable asset and as such were prized and well cared for. The ability to ride well and care for horses has always been the mark ofa social elite though that is changing today as Equestrian Sports are within the reach of many more people.

So what is the difference between and Equestrian and a Rider? Equestrianism is much more than just riding – it is a harmony between Horse and Rider where they work together as a team. Whilst we mainly think of Equestrian Sport as those things we see in the Olympics – Dressage, Show jumping and Cross Country Riding, it also covers Driving and other sports such as Polo.

Post from: Horse Facts and Equestrian Sports

Equestrian or Rider?

Post from: Horse Facts and Equestrian Sports

Equestrian or Rider?