Preparing Your Horse For Show Season: Tack, Grooming And More
Getting ready for a successful show season requires months of intensive training and a big investment of time, effort, and dedication. It also viagra online generic means having the proper equipment, a well-groomed animal, and a plan of action. As the rules change between show circuits, it is imperative that the current riding equipment and apparel rules, grooming rules, and skills being judged are known. There is no sense wasting time or money by attending a show only to be summarily eliminated for using the wrong tack or wearing the wrong colored show jacket.
Each style of riding has its own requirements. Problems can easily be prevented by creating a checklist of items to be brought to each show. Be sure to use the list during preparations. Arriving early also provides much needed time to get used to the facilities and to warm up properly. In case something turns up missing, or breaks, an early arrival can provide the time needed to go and replace it before the event begins.
Use The Right Horse Riding Equipment
Using the proper horse riding equipment for each discipline is the first step in being prepared for a successful show season. This is especially true for dressage and eventing riders. The horse riding equipment must be clean and well fitting. Generally, it looks best when it is all of the same color. The overall appearance must be trim, elegant, and understated. While bright colors will certainly attract the judge’s attention, it may not be the best kind of attention. At the same time, riders can certainly select horse riding equipment and apparel that best suits the color of their mount.
Horse riding equipment must be clean and well oiled, but a jumping class should never be attempted right after oiling the saddle. Once the tack is cleaned, keep it covered. A blanket or a clean article of horse clothing works just fine to keep the dust and dirt off. To get an added boost this show season, take the time to see what the judges are looking for. Observe other classes and take notes. If a particular judge appears to prefer dark leather and dark riding attire, take advantage of that information the next time they judge the class you are competing in by dressing appropriately.
Grooming For Success
Oiling the horse riding equipment is only half the battle. The mount must look well groomed and properly cared for as well. A good bath with lanolin soap removes all the dirt and mud while creating a moisturizing effect. If their skin tends to dry out, there are many quality products on the market that will condition and treat the problem. A dull coat can be improved quickly with a spray conditioner just before entering the ring.
After bathing the horse, comb, pull, and braid the mane and tail, depending upon the style of riding and the circuit requirements. Hooves should be cleaned, oiled, and polished to look their best. After ensuring that the horse is properly groomed, be sure to maintain their polished appearance with horse clothing that keeps dust and dirt off. Many riders use various tricks to keep their grooming efforts protected, but the best bet is simply to use high quality horse clothing and keep a towel handy.
Warm Up And Unwind
The worst thing you can do to both yourself and your mount is to ride into the show ring cold. A good warm-up will loosen muscles, making them able to function optimally, and will provide both of you time to get in sync with each other. Arriving at the show early will give you plenty of time to warm up and get used to everything. Keeping a couple of treats in your pocket is another way to help your mount relax and enjoy attending shows. Staying prescription cialis online hydrated will help both of you look and feel your best.
Prior to a show, prepare for dealing with strange environments by making a point of getting out and away from customary surroundings. Breaking away from their normal comfort zone will help both of you to be relaxed and at your best in the show ring.
Shopping for the correct tack and keeping it well oiled, keeping your grooming efforts safe under protective horse clothing, and staying relaxed in new environments will all create an advantage this show season. Looking and performing optimally is far easier when one is properly prepared for a winning season.
Author Bio: Anne Coyle is a writer for The Equestrian Corner. They provide high quality horse Kamagra Gold clothing and horse riding equipment that will help you prepare for your most successful show season yet.
Category: Pets and Animals
Keywords: Horse riding equipment, Horse clothing