Winter can be an aggravating time for any horse person, especially if you don’t have immediate access to an indoor arena.

When footing is not good for riding, what can you do to help keep you and your horse in shape as well as spend some time together?

Hand walking is a great thing to do in winter and here’s some reasons why!

* It’s safer for the horse physically. Sometimes lunging a horse who hasn’t been worked in a while can lead to injury if the horse decides to gallop around, buck, etc… Hand walking eliminates this risk and helps the horse ease back into working shape.

* It’s a great time to bond and just be with each other. This can be like taking a walk with your best friend. You have no schedule, no agenda, just you and your friend going for a lovely walk together.

* It’s great exercise for you too! Walks are also great for the mind and spirit.

Don’t let winter drag you down with the lack of riding! There’s still so much good and productive stuff you can do with your horse during the winter months!

(free photo from Canva - https://www.canva.com/ )

~ Saddle Up