How to Exercise a Horse

Exercising your horse is essential to his health and well-being. Horses that don't get enough exercise can become unfit and unruly. When you exercise your horse you are helping him to stay healthy, fit and cooperative. Keeping your horse in shape will allow you to ride him knowing that he can keep up with the work and not tire easily, whereas horses that are out of shape cannot be ridden very long.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Arena or open area to ride
• Watch or clock
• Boots for your horse

1. Tack up your horse to prepare for a ride. Use protective boots for his legs.
2. Warm your horse up before starting the ride. Walk him for at least 10 minutes, making occasional turns to the left and right to stretch his neck.
3. Trot your horse for 10 to 15 minutes. Ride in circles and figure-eights to loosen up your horse.
4. Canter or lope your horse for 10 minutes. This builds up his lung capacity and stamina.
5. Exercise your horse following these steps at least three or four times a week. You can ride up to six days a week, but you should allow the horse to rest one day a week.
6. Add time to the work out every week. After a week of trotting for 15 minutes, extend the time to 20 minutes.
7. Cool your horse after a work out by walking him. Walk him out until his breathing returns to a normal rate, and his heart rate is slower.

Tips & Warnings

• Always put protective boots on your horse's legs when exercising him. His legs are very vulnerable to injury when riding and exercising.
• When cooling your horse, you can either walk him while riding or you can take the saddle off and walk him allowing him to cool faster.
• Never allow your horse to drink water when he is very hot. Cool him out by walking before letting him drink.