Your Horse’s Rhythm

Horses, those majestic and graceful creatures, have a special connection with us humans. Yet, there's something not often talked about, something that matters a lot in this connection - it's your horse's rhythm. 

Every horse has its rhythm - a unique way of moving and being. It's like their own language. If you want to connect with your horse, you need to understand and match their rhythm. First you go with the horse, then your horse goes with you, then you go together as a team. 

For beginners, it's like learning a new language. Experienced riders know that a horse's rhythm isn't a fixed thing; it changes based on things like breed, education, physical development and conditioning, mental tension, balance and so much more. Understanding these details helps you communicate better with your horse.

The common mistake a lot of equestrians make is trying to conform their horses rhythm and balance to their feel, rather than developing a feel for their horses natural rhythm and balance and adapting to it. Even more so, if you are riding multiple horses, try to make all the horses feel the same. It can make your horse uncomfortable and even hurt them. Think about a dance partner that is trying to force your stride to theirs and add to that, you are the one carrying them, trying to balance – it's awkward, right? Pushing your horse too hard can strain their muscles and joints, which might lead to long-term problems.

Ignoring their rhythm affects your horse's performance. Their stride might be rushed, tense and on the forehand if you try to push them more forward out of their rhythm or sluggish and lack lustre if you can’t inspire effort from them. It is the constant lesson of the half halt. How do you get active, forward, efforting working paces that also have relaxation and swing? How do you call your horses' balance back in without pulling their mouth and putting them on the forehand? This can be frustrating for both of you and take away the joy of riding and it is a very common place for every horse and rider to get stuck in. 

Now, let's get practical. The first step is to watch and learn. Spend time with your horse, watch how they move, breathe, and react to things. This will help you get a feel for their rhythm. Matching steps and in hand are our 2 favourite groundwork exercises to help our riders fall into better sync with their horses. 

Once you know their rhythm, you can adjust your riding to match it. If your horse has a slow, steady rhythm, don't rush them. If they're full of energy, you have to be careful not to brace and grab their mouth.

Communication is key. The secret to riding is setting up the horse to think about what you are asking them to do and then choose what you are asking them to do. For example, if you want your horse to slow down so you pull their mouth, they aren’t going to think about slowing down, they are going to think about the piece of metal that is pulling in their mouth and react instinctively. How can you set your horse up with your seat and communication to slow down first before asking them to slow down? Listen to how they respond and adapt your riding accordingly. When you and your horse are in rhythm, riding becomes a beautiful dance between two friends.

Ignoring your horse's rhythm can make them uncomfortable and affect their performance. By following these practical steps to connect with your horse's rhythm, you'll transform your riding experience. It's all about being aware, adapting, and communicating. When you and your horse move to the same rhythm, riding becomes a joyful partnership. Join us on this journey, and you'll discover how rhythm can be your secret weapon to achieve harmony with your horse.