To make group rides a positive experience for both you and your horse, it’s important to follow these preparatory guidelines. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with your horse. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified trainer or certified riding instructor.
Why Should You Prepare for Group Rides?
Group trail rides offer a wonderful opportunity for socializing and bonding with your horse while enjoying time with friends. However, if your horse is not accustomed to riding in groups, these tips will help you prepare him for a positive experience. They will also enhance safety on the trail, whether riding alone or with companions, and are useful for introducing your horse to crowded warm-up pens.
Group Ride Prep
Never lend out your horse. It’s important to only allow riders who have established a bond with your horse and are at your level of horsemanship or higher to ride him. Building a true bond takes time and effort, so it’s best to avoid letting unknown individuals ride your horse, especially during group outings.
• Assess arena safety. Before riding in a public arena, ensure that it is safe. Observe other riders to see if they are following proper riding etiquette and riding responsibly. Check for good footing and a secure fence or wall.
• Assess new trails. Take the time to walk new trails and introduce them to your horse gradually, instilling confidence in him as the trusted leader of the herd.
• Ride with responsible people. Choose riding companions who prioritize safety on the trail and elsewhere. Start by riding regularly with two to three trusted friends who are responsible riders, and gradually introduce more riders to help your horse adjust to larger groups.
• Go on short rides. Begin with short rides as you add more riders, and revert to a smaller group if your horse appears nervous. Gradually increase the group size after a few successful short rides, being patient with both your horse and yourself.
• Lengthen the rides. Once your horse is comfortable in larger groups, extend the duration of your rides gradually, watching for signs of nervousness and ensuring he remains relaxed and at ease.
• Practice trailering. Since you will likely trailer your horse to group rides, familiarize him with trailer loading at home by taking him on short and then longer trips.
• Invest in a portable stall. Consider investing in a portable stall to provide a safe and comfortable space for your horse on the road, complete with fresh hay and water.
• Consider hobbling. Train your horse to handle hobbles for situations where a portable stall is not available. Practice hobbling him in a safe area with access to water while keeping a close eye on him.
• Warm up. Prior to every trail ride, warm up your horse in a secure, level area. Perform ground work as needed and work on essential exercises such as stopping, backing up, lateral and vertical flexion, and gait changes.
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