Lynn Palm Trail Training
Dealing with a “Hot Horse”
We have previously discussed important steps to prepare for training on the trail, including reading the horse to recognize his Our series on “training outside the box”
continues with another training tip for dealing with common trail training issues: dealing with the horse that is “hot” while on the trail.
What is a “hot” horse? I am not referring to a horse’s body temperature; I am referring to a nervous horse. This is the horse that is tense and moves quickly. He may toss his head,
jump around, rear, and maybe even buck. To use a human description, he appears as if he could “fly off the handle” at any moment.
18 • HORSES MAGAZINE • July 2017 • Download and View FREE on-line at www.horsesmagazine.com
When dealing with a hot horse, it is really important that the rider does warm-up exercises both on the ground and under saddle to be physically prepared for riding. It is equally important to warm up the horse by longeing to allow him to release his inner energy (please see Palm Partnership Training™ Newsletters #56-#60 for “The Art of Longeing” for specifics). Doing some in-hand groundwork exercises and under saddle maneuvers before going out on the trail will help the horse focus on the rider. Before going out on the ride, be prepared! Check the weather. Do not go out if it is windy or if a storm is approaching. These conditions will only make the nervous horse more anxious and less likely to focus on you. When tacking up for a trail ride, place a halter over the bridle and bring a soft, flat cotton longe line along on the ride. I’ll explain how and when to use these items later. When you plan the trail ride, go with ONE other horse and rider, not a group! Ask a friend who has a quiet, experienced trail horse