With the introduction of our new DIY Obstacle series our team will endeavor to share some of our custom obstacles which have proven to be successful in our training regime, and which can easily be recreated at your own facility.
When training and working with horses it is important to introduce them to new sights, sounds, and challenges. This approach will not only aid in their desensition training (check out our previous article: Desensitization Training And Its Positive Benefits), but can also provide variety in their arena work which in turn can help reduce the risk of your horse becoming sour due to boredom.
It is important to always keep in mind that safety is of the utmost priority when training your horse and introducing them to new obstacles. We always advise starting your horses’ exposure to new obstacles on the ground before attempting them under saddle. Set yourself up for success, take your time, and remember to have fun.
Visual Distractions
Visual distractions exist in all settings, and introducing your horse to potentially scary and spooky sights is important to ensuring they remain calm and confident when working in and out of the arena.
Materials you will need:
The options are endless for brightening up your training sessions, and more often than not you can find great props at your local pound or dollar store. With a vast array of fun and colourful items such as pinwheels, streamers, umbrellas, balloons, large plushies, and other fun and wacky items, the options are endless.
Putting it together:
Once you have selected and gathered your visually interesting and distracting items it is time to get creative with their use and placement around the arena. Whether you use your obstacles as jump fillers, fence decoration, or stand-free distractions it is important to ensure that everything is secure, safe, and will not impede your horse’s ability to maneuver any of the obstacles.