Conditioning and Showing Articles
Bit Selection for Riding and Training Horses
September 25, 2017
Identifying differences in bit construction and understanding some of the important principles of bit use will provide an educated basis for selecting bits. The article below explains the different types of bits available so that riders can determine which one is more appropriate for their horses.
Tips for Horse Show Parents
September 25, 2017
Like any youth sport, showing horses provides parents and children with countless opportunities to learn and grow together. Time spent traveling to shows and lessons, celebrating success, and even treating sick or injured animals provide positive life lessons and memories that will last a lifetime. There is also no question that, given the cost and logistics of showing horses, parents typically must be involved in the experience.
Basic Conditioning of the Equine Athlete
September 25, 2017
The goal of any basic conditioning program is to enhance the psychological and the physical responses to exercise. Psychological responses with conditioning include greater confidence and desire to perform and minimized boredom and resentment. Physical responses include greater strength and endurance, enhanced skills (such as jumping and reining), and minimized soreness or injury due to exercise.
Horse Showing Trends and Fads - From a Judge's Point of View!
September 25, 2017
Horse showing is an integral part of many youth’s passion for their horses. Many spend countless hours preparing both their horses and themselves for competition. As with most things, horse showing goes through many trends and fads. However, the bottom line is how are these new and sometimes expensive fads perceived by the judge in the show ring?
Striving for Real Sportsmanship in a Reality Show World
September 25, 2017
Today's world seems obsessed with "reality" shows. From Jersey Shore to the Kardashians, or reality contests like Survivor or the Amazing Race, people tune in by the millions each week to see what happens next in a (supposedly) unscripted environment. A research-based article on Greatist.com reports that these shows are very popular with those in the 18-34 age range, which is also a relatively large segment of the horse show world.