Keeping active over winter

What to do with your show horse or pony to keep them going over the winter? This used to be more of a problem years ago when there were fewer indoor shows and shows on all-weather surfaces. Nowadays, there are quite a lot of show series that run over the winter, whether they're riding club level or affiliated, such as the NCPA.

If you can't find any winter shows to attend, dressage is one activity that's really helpful to get your horse out and moving. It encourages you to think about control and good for your horse’s suppleness etc., which will benefit you in the show ring. Going out show jumping is especially helpful if you're participating in working hunters, and it is good for whatever discipline you're pursuing. It provides your horse with something different to think about and adds a bit of variety.

Hunting is also beneficial if you have a lazy horse that you're showing. It gives them a bit of spark, and you may find them more forward next season. This is something we used to do with our lazier horses.

All in all, there's a lot you can do with your horses over the winter. As I mentioned, more recently there are many more winter show series and local Facebook groups that are great places to find them.