Intro
As we are getting into summer in Australia, many horse riders are faced with the challenge of staying cool in the saddle. With t
emperatures soarin
g and the sun beating down, it can be tough to maintain your cool and apply your horsemanship skills effectively. Keeping yourself and your horse comfortable can be a challenge and as a result impact your relationship. But fear not, fellow horse enthusiasts! With these horse rider heatwave hacks, you’ll be able to beat the heat and continue your passion for horse riding during even the hottest of days.
Grab your water bottle and saddle up (or bareback it), because we’re about to share some tips on how to keep cool as a horse rider in the hot Australian summer.
Understanding the Risks of Horse Riding in the Heat
It’s essential to understand these risks and take appropriate precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. These are some of the key areas to be mindful off:
- Dehydration: One of the main obstacles in riding during a heatwave is the increased risk of dehydration. When you’re riding, especially for extended periods, it’s easy to overlook your body’s need for fluids. Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and preventing heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Remember to bring electrolytes and water for yourself and your horse and take regular breaks to hydrate. It’s not just about the quantity of water you drink, but also the quality. Be mindful of the electrolytes your body needs to replenish, as excessive sweating can deplete essential minerals. Look for electrolyte supplements that contain sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which will help restore the balance and keep you feeling energized. My favorite product is Endura Hydration which comes in different flavours (click image).
- Physical illness and exhaustion: You and your horse can get physically ill due to strong exposure to the sun and heat over a certain amount of time. Not everyone is the same and some riders/horses can be suffering after only a short period of time and some are able to resist for longer. However, don’t take the risk and seek an indoor arena to ride in on hot days or venture out on a trail ride through the bush.
- Mental well-being: In addition to taking care of your physical well-being, it’s essential to consider the mental and emotional toll of riding in the heat. Heat can make both you and your horse more irritable and prone to fatigue. Be mindful of the mental and physical exertion required during hot weather and adjust your training sessions accordingly. Shorter sessions with more breaks, focusing on mentally stimulating exercises like liberty work or ground work, can help keep both you and your horse engaged and motivated.
- Keeping safe: Finally, safety should always be your top priority. As a horse rider in the scorching heat of the Australian summer, it’s crucial to listen to your body and your horse. Paying attention to the signals they give you can make a world of difference in staying safe and comfortable during your rides.
Change the Time you Ride your Horse
When it comes to horse riding in extreme heat, timing is everything. Choosing the right time of day to ride can make a significant difference in staying cool and avoiding the most intense heat. During the hot Australian summer, it’s best to schedule your rides for the early morning or late evening when the temperatures are cooler.
Early morning rides offer several advantages. The air is generally cooler, and there is less direct sun exposure. This can make your ride more comfortable and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. Additionally, the ground is likely to be cooler, which is i
mportant for your horse’s hooves and overall comfort.
Late evening rides can also be a great option. As the sun begins to set, the temperatures start to drop, creating a more pleasant riding environment. Just make sure you bring along your mosquito repellent as these critters will be out
in force around that time of day. For the romantics, the fading light can add a touch of magic to your ride, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
If you have no choice but to ride during the warmer part of the day, take extra precautions. Keep your rides short and focus on mentally stimulating exercises rather than physically demanding ones. Use this time to practice ground work or teach your horse new tricks. Remember to take regular breaks and provide ample amounts of water and electrolytes for both you and your horse.DO NOT RIDE in the hottest part of the day in the open sun!
physically take it a little slower and connect on a more energy and mental level together. It builds rapport, trust and strengthens your relationship. It does take a few goes before they trust you and take up the role of leader but it is amazing to see where they take you when you let them. It is a nice way to have a little downtime from your usual program.
Summer Horse Handling and Riding Exercises
Beat the heat and work mentally rather than physically. Instead of pushing your horse through rigorous exercises that can lead to overheating, focus on mentally stimulating activities. Go for a walk, teach your horse some tricks, practice liberty work, or engage in fun and interactive sessions that keep their mind active while giving them a break from intense physical exertion.
Summer is the time for me to reflect, assess and regroup for the next competition season which is held over the Australian Winter months. Once I understand my opportunities to improve I break it down into small pieces and regroup. Bit by bit I work on the tiny things to bring them all together just in time before the season starts. I don’t spend hours on these tiny foundation bits, I work for a few minutes and move on to the next one. I look for correctness and specifics, for quality not quantity. In between these session I spend some time with my horses with a strong focus of building a stronger relationship. Here are some of these:
Grooming your horse is the protection of a nice shady area if possible, a nice breezeway. Several benefits come from this exercise like you get a work out, your horse usually enjoys some bonding time and you have a lovely clean and shiny horse at the end.
Going for an adventure walk on line if there is a nice area for you to visit like a creek then go for a wander around there. On your walk focus on your leading position, your energy and your horses attention to you and your aids. Ask for a couple of halts, a few ste
ps back up or sideways where its safe. Switch leading position and let your horse lead you. Be innovative with the space you have available and make it interesting. It is a great way to not
In the saddle let’s take it easy and practice the walk and the back up as most of us can benefit from practicing these two fundamental tasks. There are so many ways of walking, stopping and backing up. All low impact. You can do long and short steps on a straight or circle (big or small, do some sideways and try to do one step at the time over poles or a bridge (watch my video Less is More). The back up you can do in a long straight, in a circle (1/4 or ½ or full), figure 8, in a zig zag, in a L shape or back in and out of an alleyway. The mind boggles how many ways you can do this – Take your time, pause, be innovative and progressive.
Tricks on the lead rope is a fun way to play with your horse and offers you a great insight into its character and the bond you have. Start with the simple tricks as they will eventually lead to the more complicated ones. Try to get your horse to touch an object like a soft toy, a ball or a traffic cone. This trick is only the beginning and can lead to tricks like fetch, kiss, hug and others. It makes them braver around scary things. Another is follow the target which is pretty easy and fun with a cowey horse as long as you can turn them off and they don’t hunt the target. The essence is that you teach the horse to follow a target (stick with noodle piece attached). This can help later when you teach other tricks or if you need to load a horse and get it to follow the target. Leg up is another trick and the beginning of bow and laying down. The trick is useful when picking out a horses hoof. Leg forward is the beginning of Spanish walk and a simple bow and the farrier love it as the horse usually lifts the hoof up on the hoof stand. Little by little each day for 5 min as part of your summer routine can eventually turn into something pretty cool. These are some for you to play with.
Hang out means I take my book sit under my big conifer in the paddock and read it in my horses company or I walk the fence with her to make sure it is all working and check out where to weed spray next. I visit my horses out of any routine and surprise them with a treat like a few carrots or just a scratch. You be surprise the impact this can have next time you ride. Strong relationship is key and that starts from an early age.
Concluding Cooling Techniques for You and Your Horse
When the heat is sweltering and you and your horse are feeling the burn, it’s time to bring out the cooling techniques to beat the heat. These tips will help both you and your equine companion stay cool and comfortable in the saddle during the hot Australian summer.
- Hack 1: Hydration is your 1st line of defence: For example, if you plan a two-hour trail ride, map out stops near water sources and ensure you bring sufficient drinks for both you and your horse. Opt for a bottle with electrolyte mix for yourself, and don’t forget to pack an easy-to-carry, collapsible bowl for your horse to drink from.
- Hack 2: Limit the wear of boots/wraps that might cause extra heat on the horses legs. Use saddle pads that are a good fit and absorb sweat and are breathable, avoid the heavy ones.
- Hack 3: For yourself, go light, breathable attire as it can make a world of difference in keeping you comfortable and preventing overheating. Choose fabrics that are specifically designed to wick away moisture and allow for air circulation, such as technical or performance fabrics. These fabrics are lightweight and quick-drying, helping to keep sweat from lingering on your skin. Look for shirts with mesh panels or vents to enhance airflow and ventilation. Avoid heavy, dark-colored clothing that can trap heat and make you feel even hotter. In addition to choosing the right fabrics, consider wearing loose-fitting clothing that allows for optimal movement and airflow. Tight or constricting clothing can restrict blood circulation and trap heat against your body. Opt for breathable, moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable in your riding boots. Try to find UV-protective gear that can provide an extra layer of protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Look for clothing with a high UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates how effectively the fabric blocks UV radiation. Hats with wide brims or neck flaps can provide shade for your face and neck, while lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants can protect your arms and legs.
- Hack 4: Sunscreen is a must-have for any horse rider venturing out into the heat. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, ideally 50. Apply it liberally to all exposed areas of your body, paying extra attention to your face, neck, and arms. Don’t forget to reapply every few hours, especially if you’re sweating heavily. My favorite is the Cancer Council BB Cream as it lasts several hours doesn’t run into your eyes when sweating and protects well.
- Hack 5 One effective way to cool down is to use water and electrolytes. This can be done by misting you and your horse with a spray bottle filled with water, or by using a sponge or towel soaked in cool water to wipe them down. You can also offer your horse water with electrolytes mixed in to replenish their fluids and minerals lost through sweating.
- Hack 6: When deciding where to ride, consider the environment. Riding in an open trail can provide a cooling breeze, while an indoor arena can offer shade and protection from the direct sun. Choose the option that suits the heat conditions best and keep in mind that an arena may be a safer choice in extreme temperatures.
- Hack 7: Be mindful of the tack you use during hot weather. Consider riding bareback, as it allows for better heat dissipation and closer contact with your horse’s body temperature. This option is only to be chosen in a safe environment by advanced riders. Mind you, my position seems to fix itself after a few good rides bareback. If you do use tack, choose breathable materials that don’t trap heat and avoid excessive padding that can cause discomfort.
Stay safe and cool this summer
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