Fun and Productive Things to do with Your Horse This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a perfect time to strengthen your bond with your horse and try new activities that can make your training more engaging. Whether you’re looking to challenge your horse’s skills, deepen your connection, or simply have fun, Ridely has you covered. We’ve come up with a bunch of fun and productive things you can do with your horse to make the most of your time together this holiday season.

Spice Up Your Training with Polework

This versatile activity is a great way to engage your horse’s mind and body. Polework exercises improve coordination, balance, and core strength, all while adding a playful  and fun element to your training routine. You can set up a simple grid or try a more complex pole configuration to keep things fresh and interesting. If you’re unsure where to start, the Ridely library offers plenty of step-by-step polework exercises to guide you.

Here are three of our favourite polework exercises:

Try a New Exercise from Ridely’s Library of Hundreds of Videos

Break out of your usual routine by trying a new exercise from Ridely’s extensive training library. The app offers a wide range of exercises tailored to all levels and disciplines, from groundwork to advanced flatwork, show jumping and eventing. Adding a new challenge to your training plan can keep both you and your horse engaged and motivated during the holiday season.

Discover the Masterson Method

If you’re looking for a more hands-on experience, consider discovering The Masterson Method. This form of equine bodywork releases tension in your horse’s body, promoting relaxation, improving performance, and building trust. Learning the basics of this technique can be a rewarding experience for both you and your horse, giving you a new way to connect and support their well-being.

Ask the Ridely Coach for Personalized Guidance

Feeling stuck for inspiration? Ridi can offer personalized guidance. Simply ask, “What should I do with my horse today?” and receive instant, tailored suggestions for exercises and activities. It’s like having a personal trainer at your fingertips, ready to inspire you with fresh ideas that suit your training goals and your horse’s needs.

Binge-Watch Ridely’s Training Videos

If you’re looking for a way to unwind while still learning, binge-watching Ridely’s training videos is a fantastic option. With expert content covering everything from riding techniques to groundwork and horse health, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for your next training session. Take notes on exercises that catch your eye and add them to your future riding plans. (You can also plan your next ride in the Ridely app!)

Bond With Your Horse

Don’t forget to spend some quality time bonding with your horse. While training and performance are important, simply being present with your horse can strengthen your connection. Grooming, hand-grazing, or even sitting together in the paddock can build trust and deepen your relationship. This bond lays the foundation for better communication and performance in all areas of your training.

Train Off-Property for New Experiences

If you’re able to venture off-property, consider taking your horse to a new location for training. New environments challenge your horse’s adaptability and confidence, exposing them to different sights, sounds, and surfaces. Training in a new setting can prevent anxiety when traveling to competitions or events, making it a valuable experience for horses of all levels.

Book a Training Camp or Local Lessons

Another option is to book a training camp or take local lessons with a coach. Attending an intensive camp can lead to significant progress in a short period, while local lessons offer a more flexible way to stay sharp. The extra guidance from an experienced coach can provide you with new insights and techniques to take your riding to the next level.

Set Your 2025 Goals

Finally, use the holiday season as an opportunity to reflect on your progress and set new goals for 2025. Consider what you’d like to achieve with your horse in the coming year. Are you aiming to compete, build confidence, or try a new discipline? Write down your objectives and create a step-by-step plan to achieve them. With the Ridely app, you can track your rides and monitor your progress, keeping you focused on your path to success.

Let’s Recap:

If you’re looking for quick inspiration, here’s a list of activities to try with your horse this holiday season:

• Polework exercises to build coordination and strength
• Learn a new training exercise from Ridely’s extensive library
• Dive into the Masterson Method for equine bodywork and relaxation
• Ask personalized questions and get guidance from the Ridely AI-Coach in the app
• Binge-watching Ridely’s training videos for fresh inspiration!
• Bonding activities like grooming, hand-grazing, or paddock time
• Off-property training to expose your horse to new environments
• Attending a training camp or booking local lessons with a coach
• Setting and planning your 2025 riding goals

The holiday season is a chance to refresh your approach, bond with your horse, and set yourself up for a successful year ahead. From polework and new exercises to off-property training and goal setting, there’s no shortage of meaningful activities to enjoy. Take advantage of the resources in Ridely, and make this holiday one to remember for both you and your horse.