Things to Play With My Horse

Horses are a lot like people: they tend to get bored with the same old routine. If you ride the same trails or work in the same ring every time you ride, chances are, you and your horse will quickly tire of that routine. You can mix things up and keep your horse's attention by setting up obstacle courses, races and games. These challenges help to focus your horse's mind while introducing new and fun things into the same old ride.

  1. Sidepass

    • Sidepassing is an important skill for every horse to learn, and one that can be fun for both horse and rider. When you are out on the trail, you may need your horse to move sideways so you can negotiate an obstacle or open and close a fence. You can practice this skill at home by placing a log on the ground, positioning the horse so that its front legs are on one side and its hind legs are on the other and then asking it to move sideways. Cue the horse with the leg opposite the direction you want to move, i.e., put your left leg against the horse if you want it to sidepass to the right.

    Walk Overs

    • Place a variety of items on the ground each time you ride your horse. These items can include sturdy bridges, strong pieces of plywood and tarps held in place with rocks. Ask your horse to walk over these items, first on the ground with you leading it and then later while on its back. Walking over a variety of obstacles and objects is a great way to build confidence in a young horse. An obstacle course is also a good way to teach a fearful or spooky horse to face and overcome its fears.

    Pivots

    • Every horse should be able to bring its hind legs under it and use them to lift its forehand and pivot around. You can make this a fun game by working with your horse from the ground. Walk or jog with your horse on a lead rope, then quickly stop and ask your horse to move away from you by planting one hind foot and pivoting around it. Chances are, your early efforts will leave a bit to be desired, but as the horse begins to catch on to the concept, it should become better at it. After your horse is pivoting solidly from the ground, you can move the maneuver to the saddle.

    Barrel Racing

    • Barrel racing is a highly competitive sport at rodeos and horse shows, but you can set up a barrel pattern at home and play with your horse. You do not even need actual barrels --- you can simply set up three cones or other markers in a triangle and move your horse around them, first at a trot and later at a lope and gallop. Running the barrel pattern can help your horse develop the balance and coordination it needs for other types of riding as well, while allowing you both to have a bit of fun.