11 min read Last updated: January 2026 Struggling with tight hips, a crooked seat, or back pain thats costing you marks? Discover a clear, researchbacked plan to restore symmetry and protect your horses comfortcomplete with a quick home screen and a mobilityfirst routine that evens your seat bones in just 4 weeks. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Home Asymmetry Screen What To Do: After a light walk, measure leg length (ASIS to medial malleolus) three times per side and average. Test seated lateral bend left/right, take a rear photo for shoulder/pelvis level, and note any rising-trot drift. Why It Matters: Flags pelvic tilt and hip tightness early so you can adjust training before pain or performance loss. Common Mistake: Measuring once or eyeballing results instead of using repeatable measures. Area: Daily Mobility Work What To Do: Post-ride, spend 812 minutes on hip flexor (half-kneeling/couch), gentle lumbar and glute stretches, plus thoracic extensions and band pull-aparts. Keep movements slow and pain-free. Why It Matters: Restores hip and trunk range so your pelvis can follow the horse and reduce back strain. Common Mistake: Forcing stretches or skipping the warm-down walk before mobility. Area: Targeted Core Routine What To Do: Train 3x/week: dead bug with slow exhale, side plank progression, and half-kneeling Pallof press (3 sets each). Prioritise control over reps. Why It Matters: Builds anti-rotation control to keep seat bones even under load. Common Mistake: Working core before restoring mobility or holding your breath and rushing reps. Area: Smart Ride Tweaks What To Do: Use micro-sets: breathe into both seat bones, shorten stirrups one hole for transition blocks, and ride centre lines/diagonals focusing on even thigh contact; cool down and stretch. Why It Matters: Reduces pressure spikes and retrains symmetry during real work. Common Mistake: Collapsing a hip or compensating with a heavier inside hand. Area: Winter Adaptations What To Do: Swap one school for an active hack with hill-walk intervals; wear breathable baselayers, warm grippy boots, and hi-vis. Vary work to limit long static sitting trot. Why It Matters: Counters cold-induced stiffness and repetitive indoor patterns that tighten hips. Common Mistake: Extending indoor sessions without extra warm-up or movement variety. Area: Saddle And Kit What To Do: Ride in a correctly adjusted dressage saddle while you work on your body; choose grippy, well-fitted breeches, supportive boots, and a certified, comfortable helmet. Tell your fitter about any hip collapse pattern. Why It Matters: Manages leftright pressure and stabilises alignment as you rebuild symmetry. Common Mistake: Expecting saddle fit alone to fix a crooked seat or using worn, slippery kit. Area: Professional Support What To Do: Book a BHS/UKCC coach and an ESMA-aligned sports massage therapist or chartered physiotherapist; schedule saddle checks in late September and January. Share your test results. Why It Matters: Targeted input prevents asymmetry becoming chronic and protects your back and horse. Common Mistake: Waiting for pain or the competition season before seeking help. Area: Four-Week Reset What To Do: Commit to daily mobility, 3 core sessions weekly, and 2 smart-ride days; re-test in Weeks 2 and 4 and log changes in a simple diary. Why It Matters: Consistent, small steps restore symmetry within a month and build a maintenance habit. Common Mistake: Chasing volume over precision or skipping re-tests so progress isnt visible. In This Guide Do dressage riders really become asymmetric? How does asymmetry show up in your seat and your horse? What can you test at home to spot asymmetry early? Is UK winter making your hips tighter? What actually fixes tight hips and a crooked dressage seat? What should you change in the saddle to protect your back? When should you seek professional help and from whom? Can you really improve symmetry in just four weeks? Tight hips and a crooked seat dont just cost marks in the arena theyre strongly linked to back pain in riders and pressure imbalances for your horse. UK and international studies show that even experienced dressage riders become more asymmetric over time but the right tests and training can fix it.Key takeaway: Most riders develop measurable leftright asymmetries that increase with years riding and competition level, but a simple home screen plus four weeks of mobility-first training can restore symmetry and protect your back.Do dressage riders really become asymmetric?Yes measured differences in shoulder and pelvic height, leg length, and lateral bending range of motion increase with more years riding and higher competition level. In 127 right-handed riders (UK/USA), functional asymmetry in lateral bending range of motion significantly interacted with years riding and competition level (p=0.047), and a UK-involved cohort of 94 riders (average age 38.7 10.8 years) showed prevalent leg length discrepancies, pelvic tilt, and linked shoulder rotation asymmetry during riding.Across studies, riders especially those at higher dressage levels commonly present with unequal acromion (shoulder) and iliac crest (pelvic) heights. High-level dressage riders also demonstrated reduced lateral bending range of motion to the left and higher right-side shoulder height, indicating greater right-sided musculature or pain responses. Researchers warn that the increased demands at higher levels do not automatically improve symmetry:The demands on dressage riders competing at higher levels may predispose these riders to a higher risk of developing asymmetry and potentially chronic back pain rather than improving their symmetry. Hobbs et al., study on rider posture and flexibilityImportantly for UK riders, cold, damp winter months and long indoor sessions tend to stiffen hips and hamstrings, worsening asymmetries that are already common in the sport. Eventing data echo this picture, with advanced riders showing asymmetric isometric leg strength, below-average balance, and tight hamstrings all of which limit pelvic and ankle stability.How does asymmetry show up in your seat and your horse?Common signs include collapsing onto one hip, reduced left lateral bend, uneven shoulder height, and pressure spikes on the opposite saddle panel. When a rider sinks into one side, research shows force increases under the opposite saddle side, altering horserider pressure distribution and potentially affecting comfort and way of going.In the arena, that can look like drifting on straight lines, a heavier inside hand in circles, or a horse who braces or shortens the step on one rein. For the rider, a chronically tight right side with reduced left bend is typical in right-handed populations. Over time, these patterns can feed back into each other your body protects the stiff side, your horse compensates, and the crookedness becomes normal.While saddle fit wont fix a crooked seat, it can help manage pressure if youre addressing your bodywork. An adjustable-fitted dressage saddle can protect your horse while you improve symmetry, but the foundation is your posture and mobility.What can you test at home to spot asymmetry early?You can screen asymmetry at home by measuring leg length (ASIS to medial malleolus) and testing seated trunk lateral bending range. These two checks flag the pelvic tilt/hip tightness that most often undermine a dressage seat.Do this after a light walk to warm up, then record your results:Leg length screen: Lie flat. A helper measures from your anterior superior iliac spine (front hip bone) to the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone). Take three measurements per leg with a flexible tape and average them, as used in UK-involved studies. Note any consistent difference between sides.Seated trunk lateral bend: Sit tall on a firm chair (or saddle on a stand). Keep your seat bones grounded, cross arms over chest, and bend slowly to the left, then right. Use a phone inclinometer, or have a helper note fingertip travel distance from mid-thigh to knee on each side. Reduced left bend is a frequent finding in right-handed riders.Shoulder/pelvis check: Have someone take a photo from behind as you sit neutrally. Compare shoulder heights and pelvis level. If your belt line tilts or one shoulder consistently sits higher, thats meaningful.Ride-time cue: In rising trot, check every long side can you rise evenly without the torso drifting to one side? If not, note the direction.Re-test every two weeks. Small, objective changes (degrees of bend, mm in leg length measurement consistency, photo alignment) help you adjust training before pain or performance loss shows up.Is UK winter making your hips tighter?Yes cold, damp British winters tighten hamstrings and lower backs, and long indoor sessions increase hip flexor tightness and pelvic stiffness from repetitive patterns. From October to March, most UK riders ride more indoors, spend longer in sitting trot during schooling, and do fewer long hacks exactly the mix that shortens hip flexors and reduces trunk mobility.UK programmes aligned with BHS and UKCC coaching at colleges such as Hartpury regularly flag poor hamstring flexibility and below-average balance in competitive riders, particularly in eventing and dressage. Add the chill factor and heavy layers, and you get static hips that wont follow the horses back, forcing your lumbar spine to take the load.Practical winter adaptions:Swap one schooling day for an active hack with hill-walk intervals to lengthen stride and open hips. Use high-visibility rider kit for low light and poor visibility.Prioritise warm, grippy footwear for stability on slick yards and mounting blocks; supportive riding boots help your ankle and knee alignment in the stirrup.Layer breathable baselayers to stay warm but mobile; many riders love performance pieces from LeMieux for winter schooling.What actually fixes tight hips and a crooked dressage seat?Hip flexor, lower back and thoracic mobility work followed by targeted core training improves balance and reduces back pain. Stretch first to restore motion, then strengthen to hold neutral alignment in the saddle.Stretching the hip flexors can help reduce lower back pain, allow your pelvis to follow your horses back movements more closely and improve control of your seat. Dee Holdsworth (Hartpury graduate, Level 4 Sports Massage Therapist, ESMA Chairman), via Horse & HoundTargeted core training programmes, cross-training and nutritional support improved balance and reduced back pain. Review of rider biomechanics, NIH/PMCDo this sequence immediately after you ride first take a brisk 510 minute walk to warm down, then complete the stretches. Progress through three levels over four weeks.Mobility (daily, 812 minutes):Hip flexor release (side-to-side): Level 1 half-kneeling lunge, pelvis tucked (3045s each side). Level 2 couch stretch with back shin against a wall (3045s). Level 3 contractrelax: press the back foot into the wall for 5s, relax 10s, repeat x3.Lower back and glutes: Supine glute stretch and lumbar rotation (3045s each side). Keep it gentle; no forcing through pain.Upper back/shoulders: Foam roller thoracic extensions (58 reps), then resistance-band pull-aparts (2 x 1215) to counter rounded shoulders from winter layers and desk work.Core (3x/week, non-consecutive, 1215 minutes):Dead bug with slow exhale (3 x 68 each side)Side plank, knees bent progressing to straight legs (3 x 2030s each side)Pallof press with a band, half-kneeling (3 x 810 each side)Tools that help: resistance bands for core and shoulder work, a foam roller for thoracic release, and a yoga/Pilates mat for kneeling comfort. At Just Horse Riders, we recommend keeping a small yard gym by the tack room so you never skip your post-ride 10 minutes.Ride-to-gym synergy: The stretch returns the hip range of motion your pelvis needs; the core work locks in neutral spine so your seat bones stay even when the work gets harder.What should you change in the saddle to protect your back?Shorten stirrups slightly for core-engaged sets, breathe into both seat bones, and avoid collapsing a hip to prevent pressure spikes. Use micro-sets of posture resets throughout the ride.Try this structure twice a week:Warm-up: Long rein in rising trot, then 3 x 20-second focus blocks where you exhale and feel both seat bones equally weighted.Core blocks: Shorten stirrups 1 hole for 23 minutes of transitions (walktrotwalk) focusing on a tall torso and quiet hands, then lengthen again. Repeat 23 times.Symmetry lines: Ride centre lines and diagonals with your quiet rein on the stiffer side and your focus on even thigh contact rather than more inside hand.Cool down: Long walk; re-check seat bones level, then complete your mobility sequence.Clothing and kit matter more than you think: well-fitted, grippy breeches stabilise your leg, supportive riding boots align your ankle and knee, and properly fitted riding helmets keep you safe as you change stirrup lengths and work in different positions. Preparing for competition? Choose flexible, performance-focused dressage competition clothing that doesnt restrict your hip mobility.When should you seek professional help and from whom?Persistent asymmetry, reduced left lateral bend, or any ongoing back pain warrants assessment by a BHS or UKCC coach and a qualified therapist. Dont wait for it to become chronic.Who to contact:Coaching: A BHS or UKCC-qualified instructor can spot and correct seat habits in real time and structure your schooling to build symmetry, especially over winter when patterns embed quickly.Therapy: An ESMA-aligned sports massage therapist, chartered physiotherapist, or osteopath with equestrian experience can address hip flexor and thoracic restrictions and give you targeted home work.Saddle fit: A properly adjusted dressage saddle helps manage pressure while you change your body. Mention any hip collapse patterns to your fitter so they can check panel contact leftright.If you compete regularly or ride through winter, schedule a pre-season body and saddle check in late September and a midwinter check in January. Our customers often tell us these two appointments save them weeks of frustration later in the year.Can you really improve symmetry in just four weeks?Yes combine daily mobility, three weekly core sessions, and two smart ride days and youll feel more even in the saddle within a month. Re-test after Week 2 and Week 4 to track progress.Week 1 Baseline and basics:Tests: Leg length measurements and seated lateral bend photos.Mobility: Daily 812 minutes (hip flexor, lower back, thoracic).Core: 2 sessions (dead bug, side plank, Pallof press).Rides: 23 schools with 2 x core blocks (shortened stirrups + transitions).Week 2 Build control:Mobility: Continue daily; progress hip flexor stretch to Level 2.Core: 3 sessions; add reps or time.Rides: Add symmetry lines and one hack with hill-walk intervals. Use winter hi-vis for safety.Re-test: Seated lateral bend. Aim for a few extra degrees or a more even fingertip travel left vs right.Week 3 Challenge the pattern:Mobility: Add contractrelax to hip flexors (Level 3).Core: 3 sessions; keep quality high. Consider adding a banded row for mid-back strength.Rides: Introduce raised poles in walk/trot on both reins to encourage even pelvic motion.Kit check: Are your breeches and boots supporting your alignment? Replace worn kit that slips.Week 4 Consolidate and test:Mobility + Core: Maintain frequency; dont add volume focus on precision.Rides: Repeat Week 2 structure; add serpentines, riding for identical feel on each loop.Final re-test: Repeat leg length measures (consistency), seated lateral bend, and photos. Note changes and set a twice-weekly maintenance plan.Pro tip: Keep a simple training log (3 lines a day). Noting left hip tighter today or even seat bones after poles helps you link what works and catch regressions early.Safety reminder: As you train through winter, double-check your helmet fit and consider flexible, breathable layers from LeMieux to stay warm without restricting your shoulders and hips.FAQsDo dressage riders develop more hip tightness or asymmetry over time?Yes. Studies report increasing asymmetry in iliac crest (pelvic) height and lateral bending range of motion with more years riding and higher competition levels, raising the risk of chronic back pain. See the summary by Hobbs et al. on Mad Barn.Can stretching fix a poor dressage seat caused by tight hips?Stretching hip flexors reduces lower back pain and lets your pelvis follow the horse more closely, improving seat control then targeted core work helps you keep that alignment. Guidance from Dee Holdsworth via Horse & Hound.How do I check for rider asymmetry at home?Measure leg length from ASIS to medial malleolus three times per leg and average the results, then test seated trunk lateral bending to compare left and right. These simple screens reflect the pelvic tilt and hip tightness linked to seat asymmetry in UK-involved research.Is rider asymmetry worse in UK winter riding?Often, yes. Cold, damp conditions tighten hamstrings and lower backs, and longer indoor sessions increase hip flexor tightness a combination that limits pelvic stability in dressage and eventing through winter months.What fitness is best for fixing tight hips in dressage?Daily hip flexor, lower back and thoracic mobility, followed by 23 weekly sessions of targeted core work (dead bug, side plank, anti-rotation) is the fastest, safest route. A review of rider biomechanics found such programmes improve balance and reduce back pain (NIH/PMC).Does competing more improve rider posture symmetry?No. Higher competition levels in dressage are associated with more not less asymmetry and with increased back pain risk. Train symmetry deliberately rather than assuming experience will fix it (Mad Barn).What gear helps me stay aligned and safe while I fix asymmetry?Choose grippy, well-fitted breeches, supportive riding boots, and a certified, comfortable helmet. For winter schooling and competitions, flexible competition clothing and reliable hi-vis keep you both safe and unrestricted. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Jodhpurs & BreechesShop Riding BootsShop Riding HelmetsShop Hi-Vis GearShop Competition Wear

At World Equestrian Center, excellence is shaped not only in the competition arenas, but through the people, purpose, and details that define the experience. This issue explores the perspectives, care, and craftsmanship that support every moment on property, from ringside to behind the scenes. Read Now! Our Equestrian Profile goes Inside the Judges Booth with FEI and USEF dressageSource

Over the years, Ive represented numerous horse riders whose lives have been devastated by serious, often unavoidable, road collisions while hacking sustaining life-threatening injuries and psychological trauma.Life-threatening situations are not rare they are a daily reality for riders. That is why it is essential that the Government introduces stronger measures to improve public safety and reduce risks for horses and riders on UK roads.Beyond my legal work, Ive worked with the British Horse Society for several years, delivering road safety talks. I also serve as a trustee of the Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund, a charity providing vital support to riders affected by horse-related injuries.Behind every statistic is a personOn 14 January 2026, Mr Lee Dillon MP secured a parliamentary debate calling for stronger protection for riders and their horses on the road, including making some of the rules in The Highway Code relating to overtaking horses mandatory rather than advisory. This is of particular importance when the data shows that 81% of incidents and near misses involve a vehicle passing too fast or too close to a horse.I was proud to share with Mr Dillon my concerns, thoughts and proposals for change, which he then raised in parliament during the debate.He is also championing the Private Members Bill The Road Traffic (Horse and Rider Safety) Bill.The Governments recently announced Road Safety Strategy aims to cut road deaths and serious injuries by 65% over the next decade but misses key opportunities to better protect horses and riders.According to the British Horse Society, in 2024 alone, 3,118 road incidents involving horses were recorded, with 80 people injured and 58 horses killed.Behind every statistic is a person, a family and a beloved animal. These proposed changes will not eliminate collisions, but go some way to reducing what should be preventable tragedies.Why this matters my perspectiveThis debate is close to my heart. As a former horse owner and rider, I regularly used public roads to access bridleways around Leeds often single carriageways with 60mph limits. I experienced frequent near-misses, either vehicles passing too closely or too quickly, sometimes with oncoming traffic approaching.Even now, as an occasional rider, the prospect of riding on the road gives me considerable concern. My children also rode for a time, and during supervised rides, I witnessed dangerous behaviour from drivers overtaking too closely or pulling into the line of horses. These situations posed obvious risks to both the children and their leaders on foot.The reality for ridersDespite the Government describing its Road Safety Strategy as taking decisive action to make our roads safer for everyone, it barely acknowledges horses. There is no mention of tougher motoring-offence penalties, leaving serious doubts about how rider protections will be improved in practice.Mr Dillion brought up my points in the debate, where I was able to highlight the psychological trauma riders experience, often feeling immense guilt and grief that the horse bore the impact of the collision. Mr Dillion urged the Government to use the consultation on the new Victims Code to ensure riders and owners who lose horses are properly recognised in relation to the impact that the loss of a horse in these circumstances can have.The human cost what I see every dayI have represented riders after catastrophic collisions cases where horses were hit from behind, fatally injured, and riders left with life-changing injuries.Sophia Bradley, for example, was thrown across the carriageway and her horse, Ava, was put to sleep after being struck from behind by a car.Common themes include:Drivers passing at excessive speeds or too closely.Motorists explaining they did not see the horse and rider even on straight roads.The psychological impact is profound, including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and in many cases, riders giving up riding entirely or incurring extra costs to avoid roads.I would urge the Government to listen to the debate and ensure that horse riding safety is properly considered as they push forward with their new proposals. Simple changes will save lives, reduce suffering and make our roads safer for everyone.So what now? Although the second reading of the Rider and Road Safety Bill did not take place as scheduled on 16 January, I support the progression of the Bill which, if approved, will strengthen road safety protections for horses and riders by establishing clearer legal duties for motorists and embedding equestrian safety within driver education.The proposals include statutory rules governing how motorists must approach and overtake horses on the road, such as specified passing speeds and minimum overtaking distances. These measures are designed to address the increasing number of incidents involving horses being struck or frightened by vehicles travelling too fast or too close, helping to reduce the number of incidents occurring.The Bill also requires equestrian safety guidance currently contained within the Highway Code to be formally incorporated into the driving theory test. This would ensure new drivers receive consistent education on how to recognise and respond safely to horses on the road, enhancing safety for all road users.Image Your Horse LibraryRelated contentIt breaks my heart she had such a cruel end: Rider loses cherished mare in road collisionJust this morning a horse was hit: Westminster debate hears urgent calls to protect riders on roadsThis is why wearing the colour red could play a part in safer hackingReport all road incidents to the BHS to make a real difference to horse and rider safety, says Alan HiscoxCould not wearing high vis leave horse riders liable in a road accident? Solicitor answersThe post Life-threatening situations are a daily reality: lawyer supports parliamentary push to protect riders on the road appeared first on Your Horse.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary has announced that it is considering the closure of two of its centres as it faces mounting financial pressures.The charity confirmed today (Monday 16 February) that it has entered into consultation over the potential closure of Redwings Oxhill in Warwickshire and Redwings Mountains in Angus, Scotland.Both sites will remain closed to the public while the consultation process, expected to last at least a month, takes place.Chief executive Lynn Cutress said rising costs have placed significant strain on the organisations finances.With rising costs beyond our control, it is essential that we do everything we can to ensure that we are using your donations most effectively and are investing in activities which will have the greatest impact for the horses in our care and the welfare of those beyond our paddock fences, she said.In a post on the charitys social media, it was revealed that the charity is now in its fourth consecutive year of drawing on financial reserves to balance its budget and the current situation was described as unsustainable.We need to immediately reduce our operating costs, and these centres have been selected as they are unfortunately the most expensive for us to run, Lynn explained.More than 100 equines affectedRedwings is one of the UKs largest equine welfare charities, caring for more than 1,000 rescued horses, ponies and donkeys in sanctuary, alongside a further 700 living in Guardian homes.The charity was founded in Norfolk, where its head office is based, and operates several large sanctuary sites and two visitor centres in the county, in addition to a visitor centre near Harlow in Essex.Redwings Oxhill has been operating as a visitor site for nearly 20 years, while Redwings Mountains joined the charity in 2015.Although the Oxhill and Mountains centres will remain temporarily closed to visitors out of respect for the staff involved, the charitys remaining visitor centres in Norfolk and Essex will continue to operate as normal.If the proposals proceed, more than 100 rescued horses and donkeys including each centres resident Adoption Stars could be relocated to the charitys Norfolk sites.Supporters who sponsor a horse or donkey at the affected centres will receive further information in due course.Considering every optionLynn emphasised the charitys long-standing mission. She said:At Redwings we have been rescuing horses for 40 years, and thanks to the generosity of our supporters and the hard work of our team of staff and volunteers, we have been able to give our rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules across the UK a safe place to live, providing essential veterinary treatment, rehabilitation and lifelong care.We want to be able to continue our vital mission well into the future; being there for the horses currently in our care and for neglected horses when they need us most. A total of 39 staff members could be affected by the outcome of the consultation.The charity said it is considering every option and thanked supporters for their continued encouragement, stressing that the welfare of its staff and animals remains its priority.Redwings has also been active in national equine welfare campaigning, including leading petitions calling for tighter regulation of fireworks, which were debated in Parliament, reflecting the charitys wider role in shaping equine welfare policy beyond its sanctuary operations.Main image of Will, a pony living at Redwings Norfolk base, courtesy of RedwingsMore from Your HorseRedwings launches animal welfare pledge in honour of Black BeautyIt breaks my heart that they are forced to go through this: Redwings shares video of veteran rescue ponies terrified by fireworksNeglected pony finds sanctuary at Redwings in time for ChristmasStephen Fry among 60,000 backing Redwings fireworks petitionThe post Shock as major equine charity considers closing two of its centres due to rising costs appeared first on Your Horse.

Get ready to celebrate horse lovers, it is Chinese New Years Eve today! Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, an ethereal red horse trailing fire will usher in the Chinese New Year. It is not just any New Year; its a very rare Year of the Fire Horse which reigns in the Chinese Zodiac cycle only every 60 years.Its fitting that this Year of the Fire Horse corresponds with Horse Illustrated magazines golden anniversary. The publications first issue was on newsstands in 1976, just ten years after the last Fire Horse in 1966. In Chinese culture, the color gold symbolizes prosperity, so may Horse Illustrated readers enjoy many more information-packed issues in the years to come!Also significant in equestrian circles this year are the 2026 FEI World Championships in August in Aachen, Germany, which will begin the journey toward the next Olympic Games in 2028 in Los Angeles. Performances at these World Championships, and the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, will be part of determining which countries will qualify to compete and who will ride for the USA in the LA28 Games.A fiery red and gold Year of the Horse display at the Harbour City Mall in Hong Kong. Photo by Maya HoWhat is a Fire Horse?This Year of the Fire Horse runs February 17, 2026, through February 5, 2027. Theres a common Mandarin Chinese idiom, M do chng gng, which basically means Success upon the horses arrival.Chinese tradition combines the qualities associated with the animals in their 12-year Zodiac cycle with those of their five philosophical elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) to produce this 60-year cycle. The Horse is the seventh animal in their calendar, with the others being the Rat (first), Ox (second), Tiger (third), Rabbit (fourth), Dragon (fifth), Snake (sixth), Sheep (eighth, sometimes listed as a ram or goat), Monkey (ninth), Rooster (tenth), dog (eleventh), and pig (twelfth). Learn more about why the Chinese Zodiac animals are listed in this order here.Chinese Zodiac calendar wheels featuring the 12 animals of their Zodiac.In Chinese culture, the Horse is said to have an independent, dynamic, confident and adventurous spirit and to symbolizevitality,speed, perseverance andsuccess. The Fire element adds intensity and high energy to the mix. According to Chinese horoscope forecasters, this makes 2026 a year for bold decisions and rapid transformations supported by a surge of creativity and ambition. However, Chinese philosophy cautions that while the Horse is brave and enthusiastic, it can also be impulsive. Overall, however, the forecast for this Year of the Fire Horse is potentially one of moving forward, renewal, vibrant transformation, economic growth and technological advancements.This year is also a Yang Fire year, one which favors those who are willing to take risks and make quick decisions. In Chinese philosophy, Yin and Yang are the dual, yet interdependent, forces present in all aspects of life. Years ending in even numbers are Yang while Yin years are odd-numbered. Yang is associated with activity, dynamism, brightness, warmth and masculinity, while Yin is thought of as having passivity, receptivity, darkness, coolness and femininity.Babies born in a Year of the Fire Horse are thought of as energetic, charismatic and desiring the freedom for self-expression. Find out which animal corresponds to your birth year and check out the 2026 horoscopes for all of the 12 Chinese Zodiac symbols here.Numerology also plays a huge role in shaping Chinese culture and beliefs. Last year was the ending of the last Universal Year cycleit was Year 9. In 2026, we enter a new Universal Year 1. (When added together, the numbers in 2026 add up to 10, which leads back to number 1.) Additionally, the five elements are associated with numbers; numbers that end in 6 or 7 are always associated with Fire. Hence, in 2026 we have the Fire Horse and next year, 2027, will be the Year of the Fire Goat/Sheep.It is also interesting to note that the start of this years Chinese New Year corresponds with the Ring of Fire solar eclipse that will appear over Antarctica on February 17. This adds even more intensity and fireworks on that day!More About Chinese New YearOne of the most important holidays of the year, this lunisolar (combines the solar year with the moons cycle) event is celebrated in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau, and in Chinatown neighborhoods in other countries around the world, among others. The day on which the Chinese Lunar New Year lands varies from year to year based on when the first new moon falls (this can be any day from January 21 to February 21).The first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year marks the start of a 15-day Spring Festival which celebrates the end of winter and the start of new agricultural cycle. This spring celebration ends with a Lantern Festival on the final day (this years Spring Festival runs February 17-March 3). The day before the Chinese New Year is called New Years Eve, which comes with a set of practiced traditions as well.A merchant selling Chinese New Year gifts at the 2026 Honolulu Chinatown New Year Spring Festival. Photo by Dorrel WhinerySame as the January 1 New Year in the Gregorian calendar used by the Western world, the Chinese New Year is a time to shrug off the old and bring in the new, and to follow traditions that invite luck, good health and wealth. Across China, people traditionally have holiday time off from work with many traveling back to their hometowns; its said to be the biggest mammalian migration in the world. Other Asian cultures celebrate in similar fashion, but with a few different traditions.As with all holidays, there are many traditions associated with Chinese New Year. Starting with today, New Years Eve, its a time to clean house to sweep out the old years dust. And, to prepare a good-luck meal to enjoy with family; the meal should include long noodles to encourage longevity and rice for abundance, but there are many other lucky foods on the list to try as well. Also important on New Years Eve, leave the lights on until midnight to drive away evil spirits so the New Year can begin with good luck.Wearing red for the New Year celebrations is very important as well; it is the ultimate lucky color. Bonus points if your underwear and socks are red, too! Red is thought to bring good luck, prosperity and ward off evil spirits. Continuing with the red theme, on New Years Day people gift red envelopes containing money to children and unmarried young people in their family as part of New Years celebrations to pass on good fortune, joy and blessings.Buying flowers and plants is also something that can bring growing luck for the coming year. Honoring ones ancestors is another New Years tradition. And, fireworks are a visual delight to usher in the New Year. Only kind and lucky words should be spoken on New Years Day to start the year on a positive note.There is also a list of things to avoid on Chinese New Years Day because they might invite bad luck. These include no washing of clothes or dishes and no house cleaning (these should be done on New Years Eve instead) and not wearing torn clothes. And, dont wear white or black since these are colors associated with death in China. Find other New Years dos and donts here.There is much more to learn about this important holiday than space allows. Here are some links to more information: Chinese New Year Overview Lunar New Year OverviewThe Chinese New Year from Britannica 15 Chinese Lunar New Year Fun FactsNew Years Fun & GamesBeyond wearing red, watching fireworks and consuming lucky food, there are so many fun ways to celebrate the incoming Chinese New Year of the Fire Horse. Here are a few ideas.1. Take a Virtual Tour of the Smithsonian Asian Art MuseumLearn about legends, fortunes, and the symbolism of animals, plants, and colors associated with the Lunar New Year on this virtual tour of some of the Asian art in the Smithsonian on February 17, 2026, from 3-4 p.m. Eastern Time. Free, but registration required.Visit here.Celestial Horses, artist unknown, an ink and color on silk artwork gifted to the Smithsonian Asian Art Museum by Charles Lang Freer, will be part of the virtual tour of the museum on February 17. Photo courtesy the Smithsonian Institute2. Learn How To Write a Decorative Holiday CoupletThis really cool video, shared by Queenie MW Lam in Hong Kong, shows how to create a couplet of two written Chinese traditional Han characters to create a festive New Years greeting. Watch the video here.The character Fu (;f) means fortune and good luck. And, the character for horse is (it kind of looks like a horse with the four legs, trailing tail and mane flowing out behind).Note in this video the use of the red paper and the gold writing, plus the little gold gourd next to 2026 (which symbolizes prosperity, protection and harmony), the gold ingots in the upper right-hand corner (inviting wealth in the New Year), and the traditional New Years fireworks to the left of the horse.For all the artists out there who would like to try their hand at re-creating the couplet in the video, here is the English translation of the subtitles at the top of the video:First, write a 5.Then, write 2026.Write a reversed 7.Connect the lines to draw the mouth and nose.Draw the eyes.Fill them in.Add the ears.Draw the horizontal and vertical lines.Use zigzag lines to create the mane.Draw the two connected circles to make the bridle.Write the other half of the fortune character.Use several S shapes to form the tail.Draw a small circle and a big circle to make the gourd.Use two C shapes to draw the gold ingots.Add small dots to create fireworks.Draw some additional decorations.The Fu () character for the Year of the Horse is complete.3. Breyers Special Year of the Fire Horse ModelMost horse lovers have at least one Breyer horse model on a shelf or in a toy box, most of us many more. Since 1950 this U.S.-based company (now owned by Reeves International, Inc.) has produced lifelike models of equines and other animals. The companys BreyerFest attracts many thousands of visitors each year to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, proving just how popular their products have become.In 2026 the company released a special Year of the Fire Horse model called Yn W. Stephanie Macejko from Reeves International said that this limited edition has been their most popular release of the year thus far.Yn W, a Breyer limited-edition model for the Year of the Fire Horse has been their most popular item thus far in 2026. Photo courtesy BreyerShe explained the creative process behind this flashy chestnut and white statue, For Breyer,everyyear is the Year of the Horse!For over 75 years, weve celebrated all the different breeds and disciplines that inspire us, including those in art and culture, too! The colorway was inspired by Chinese watercolor art, but converted to celebratory metallic reds and golds, with a pearl base. The symbol for horse is shown on the hip, and his name means flame and dance, which captures the spirit of the horses stance and the fact that 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse.According to Macejko, Yn W is not their first Year of the Horse tribute. In 2014, Breyer celebrated the Year of the Wood Horse with a limited-edition model painted with a woodgrain finish, and also produced a second collectible model showcasing the colorful smoke used in traditional Chinese celebrations. Before that in 2002, they released Jade, decorated to evoke the look and feel of the gemstone, to mark that years Chinese New Year of the Horse.4. Chinese New Years Galloping Horses Scroll from LEGOLEGO, the Danish construction-block toy company, has attracted both young and old fans from around the world since their founding in 1932. LEGO representative Sydney Mauro shared that, beginning in 2019, they have been releasing Lunar New Year sets as part of their seasonal portfolio. These feature festive scenes, zodiac animals and cultural traditions that celebrate Spring Festival.In 2026 for the Year of the Horse, they introduced the LEGO Galloping Horses Canvas set. It is a build-and-display model that brings traditional Chinese brush painting to life in brick form.LEGO introduced this Galloping Horses Canvas set in 2026. Photo courtesy LEGOThe LEGO Groups Lunar New Year sets are designed to inspire kids and families to celebrate cultural traditions through hands-on building. This year the brick-built horses and printed canvas feature symbols of strength, good fortune and the traditional blessing of success upon arrival in the New Year. The set also allows builders to pose the four horses and turn a handle to make them move as if galloping out of the painting, creating a playful Spring Festival decoration families can build and enjoy together, explained Maduro.5. Pokmon GOs Lunar New Years GameFor aficionados of Pokmon GO, there is a Lunar New Year event on February 17 with added features as a nod toward the Lunar New Year. Visit here for more information.2026 Year of the Fire Horse Photo Gallery from Around the WorldHappy New Year!So, now on Chinese New Years Eve, get ready to ride into 2026. Its time to say goodbye to 2025, the Year of Wood Snake. Then, break out the celebratory red and gold, gather with two and four-legged family and friends, and get ready for all the Year of the Fire Horse will bring.Authors Note: I dedicate this article to my late sister-in-law Jennifer Ho Whinery, a true animal lover, who inspired my interest in Chinese culture. A big thank you to family and friends who helped with the preparation of this article and with photos: John Babson; Kathy Cheung; Maya Ho; Queenie MW Lam, and Dorrel Whinery.The post 2026 Chinese New Year of the Fire Horse Gallops In appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The driver of a vehicle involved in a collision with two horse riders, which led to the death of one of the horses, has been found guilty of driving without due care and attention.The incident occurred in Marbury, Cheshire, on 17 September 2024 when Cheshire Police attended the scene. Tragically, one of the horses, Monty a Friesian gelding had to be put down at the roadside despite efforts to save him.The driver was found guilty on 7 January 2026 following a 15-month investigation and sentenced to a fine of 867, a surcharge of 346 and costs of 650. They were also handed a discretionary driving disqualification for 21 days.Monty was very sadly put to sleepOnly one of the horses got upThe riders, who were wearing high-vis clothing and taking precautions while hacking on the country lanes, described the day as normal until the crash occurred.On September 17, 2024, we decided to go for a hack; we tacked up and headed off down the country lanes as we have done many times before. We both had hi-visibility vests on and both horses are sensible on the road another normal day, said one of the riders in a statement shared by Cheshire Polices Rural Crime Team.Unfortunately, our day did not end normally. After being hit by a car, both horses ended up on the floor with us falling from them. Only one of the horses got up.Monty was subsequently put to sleep on the road.The statement added that the incident has had a profound psychological and physical impact on the riders.Monty is sadly missed by all those who knew and cared for him, said the statement. Please remember him as we do, an irreplaceable Gentle Giant Friesian who was a beautiful companion and part of our family.A powerful reminder of why road safety mattersThe British Horse Society (BHS) has emphasised road safety for horse riders, reminding drivers to pass slowly and widely no more than 10 mph and to maintain at least two metres of distance when overtaking, approaching, or moving away from horses.The organisation stresses that there are three brains at work when passing a horse, referring to the horse, the rider, and the driver.A spokesperson for the BHS said that: Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident. Montys story is a powerful reminder of why road safety around horses matters so much.We continue to work closely with police forces across the UK to raise awareness of The Highway Code guidance.They also thanked Cheshire Police for reinforcing this important message.Montys owners have asked that he be remembered as an irreplaceable companion and part of their family. They hope his story serves as a reminder of the responsibility all drivers have to consider vulnerable road users and to drive with care.Main image Shutterstock; inset photo of Monty from Cheshire Police Rural Crime TeamRelated contentLife-threatening situations are a daily reality: lawyer supports parliamentary push to protect riders on the roadIt breaks my heart she had such a cruel end: Rider loses cherished mare in road collisionJust this morning a horse was hit: Westminster debate hears urgent calls to protect riders on roadsOperation Snap: how to report a riding incident to the policeHow to choose the best camera for horse riding, plus seven on the marketThe post Driver found guilty after horse suffers fatal injury in Cheshire road collision appeared first on Your Horse.

Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) has launched the 2026 DAFM Studbook Series for Show Jumping taking place in regions nationwide from March to August. This Series is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine (DAFM) under National Breeding Services and delivered by Horse Sport Ireland. The 2026 series is open to all DAFM-approved studbooks and has a total prize fund of 90,000*.All riders/breeders and producers must familiarise themselves with terms, conditions, and eligibility of the DAFM Studbook SeriesHERE.Classes for 5-year-old, 6-year-old and 7-year-old horses will be held at selected venues throughout Ireland listed below.VenueDateTipperary Equestrian Centre28th MarchMillstreet International18th & 19th AprilThe Meadows Equestrian Centre25th AprilBarnadown Showjumping9th & 10th MayMaryville Stables4th JulyGlenamaddy Equestrian Centre11th JulyFinal: Mullingar Equestrian Centre31st July & 1st AugustIn this series riders, breeders and owners will be rewarded for the breeding and production decisions through several class and league-based prizes. There will be a total prize fund of 90,000* for the series. Breeders and grooms prizes will be awarded for leading performance in each class and overall league results. The recognition and support for leading young riders remains in place following its success in previous years*Subject to funding and derogation approvalFunded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, under National Breeding ServicesThe post DAFM Showjumping Studbook Series 2026 Launched appeared first on .

In 2022, Lydia Dedera (then Lydia Cotterell) found herself in a tough situation. Shed entered a Mustang adoption competition, and the horse she was working with struggled with aggression. A red roan gelding from Oregons Stinkingwater herd, Rojo Rogue wanted nothing to do with Dedera. When trying to gentle him, shed almost been kicked, bitten, and pinned to the ground.There were times where I, in the moment, I thought I was going to lose my life, Dedera says.She wasnt sure if she and the gelding could successfully move forward, but she didnt want to give up. Rojo needed her to help him find a home.Rojo Rogue as a new arrival settling into his gentling pen before starting training with Dedera. Photo by Lydia Dederas Horse TrainingChallenging ChoiceDedera never owned a horse as a child, but she grew up going to horse camp. At 15, she accepted a job as a stable hand. There, she discovered she enjoyed working with horses. If she found a one with a problem, she searched for an answer. She started helping friends and acquaintances with their horses, but she didnt consider herself a trainer.Dedera didnt realize Mustangs existed until she stumbled across a video about them on social media. Intrigued by the video and encouraged by friends and family, she entered a local Mustang adoption challenge when she was 19. Thats where she met Rojo.When her turn to choose a horse for the competition came, she remembers feeling called to select Rojo, so she did. But despite her initial confidence in the selection process, her first encounters with Rojo discouraged her.After multiple close calls, Dedera desperately searched for a way to establish trust with him. This led her to a revelation: She realized she viewed herself as a stable hand who wanted to be a horse trainer but didnt feel qualified. She felt out of her element and even awkward, and she wondered if Rojo felt the same about his current situation.I chose him when nobody else did; he wasnt chosen for another competition, and he was one of four horses left, Dedera recalls. I truly felt like I was his last chance.She returned to Rojo with a renewed commitment, proceeding only as his comfort level allowed. As she gained his trust, his aggression stopped. Dedera continued his training by using positive reinforcement and approach-and-retreat methods. Eventually, Rojos fears faded away, and the two formed a relationship built on trust and respect.The Four WinsAs of March 2024, a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) report estimates that there were around 5,154 wild horses and burros in Oregon, but the number of wild horses and burros the state can sustainably support is closer to 2,700. BLMs website explains, Because wild horses and burros are federally protected and lack natural predators, the BLM must manage population growth to ensure healthy wild horses and burros thrive on healthy public rangelands. Placing wild horses and burros in qualified homes through adoption is one of several management methods.Erica FitzGerald is the president and founder of Teens and Oregon Mustangs, an organization that matches trainers with wild Mustangs to promote their adoption. Its through this program that Dedera found Rojo.For every competition Teens and Oregon Mustangs puts on, FitzGerald aims to accomplish what she calls four wins. Those are: Find the Mustangs entered in the competition good forever homes. Help the trainers develop better horsemanship. Reduce the number of Mustangs in BLM holding pens. Provide buyers with solid horses that have fantastic foundations.FitzGerald says Dedera (who competed in the adult division) checks all of those boxes.All those wins are met with Lydia for sure, and thats our mission, she says.By the competition date, Dedera and Rojo had formed a partnership that made it possible for them to compete in what became Dederas first horse show. They entered the ridden division of the challenge, where they placed 2nd in the Novice Trail class and 12th overall. But more importantly, Rojo sold for $9,000 to a home where Dedera continues to work with him.Dedera and Rojo competing together at the Teens and Oregon Mustangs competition. Photo by Jenn Koenig PhotographyWhen Rojo left the competition with his new owner, a flood of feelings rushed over Dedera.I remember loading him up in his new familys horse trailer and fighting tears, she says. I handed his owner a bag of his favorite treats, and when I turned around, the whole stable was empty. I had a hard time knowing what to do with myself for the remainder of that day, but I also felt a strong sense of completion.Transforming LivesRojos adoption marked the beginning of what has become a yearly project for Dedera. Her second year competing with Teens and Oregon Mustangs introduced her to a South Steens Herd Management Area (HMA) Mustang, Firefly, that she kept after the competition.Lydia Dedera and her personal Mustang, Firefly. Photo by Jenn Koenig PhotographyIn 2024, Dedera helped her entry, a Palomino Buttes HMA gelding named Simba, not only find a home, but also become one of the highest-selling horses in the programs history, with a sale price of $34,000.FitzGerald explains that Dederas work with the Mustangs she trains makes them into family horses, which helps them find forever homes. She puts a solid foundation on her horses and makes them really adoptable, she says.At home, Dedera works with all breeds of horses, but Mustangs are her favorite. Shes trained eight from the wild, and estimates that she has worked with more than 100 Mustangs in total. Her experience with Rojo taught her the value of instilling trust and respect in all of the horses she trains.If I can get a horse, a Mustang, to trust me as its friend, as its leader, and to want to be with me and to want to please me, then I can do anything with that horse, Dedera says.While its clear the Mustangs Dedera works with undergo transformations, those horses have transformed Dederas life, too. She explains that her faith encourages her to pursue qualities like patience, diligence, integrity and purposeful living in her daily life. Dedera says God has used Mustangs to grow her in those very areas.When youre studying an animal and youre helping him become his best, you cant help but look on the inside as well, she says.Dedera isnt certain what the future holds, but she thinks it will be exciting. She can see herself continuing to teach lessons, train horses and compete, but she would also love to start traveling and performing with Mustangs.Wherever she goes and whatever she does, the uncertainties of yesterday are gone, and the promise of tomorrow looks bright. And today, in the present, Dedera confidently calls herself a horse trainer.This article about Lydia Dedera appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Lydia Dedera: Changed by Mustangs appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

La Biosthetique-Sam FBW, the prolific event horse campaigned by Germanys Michael Jung, has died at the age of 26. Widely considered one of the best event horses of all time, Sam was the first horse to hold World, European and Olympic titles simultaneously.He was second in the six- and seven-year-old World Young Horse Championships at Le Lion dAngers in 2006 and 2007, before winning his five-star debut at Luhmhlen in 2009. Michael made his senior squad debut on Sam at the FEI European Eventing Championships in 2009, where they won individual bronze and went on to become world champions at the FEI World Equestrian Games in Kentucky the following year.Together they also won individual gold at the European Eventing Championships in 2011, before becoming Olympic champions at the 2012 Games in London, taking home both team and individual gold.This was followed by team silver and individual gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics. That same year, Sam contributed to Michael becoming only the second rider in history, after Pippa Funnell, to win the Rolex Grand Slam of Eventing.Defining an era Sam defined an era of the sport of eventing, finishing in the top three in seven of his nine five-star (then classed as CCI4*) events. On top of his 2009 Luhmhlen victory, he finished second at Badminton in 2013 and was third at Kentucky in 2015, as well as third at Luhmhlen and a win Burghley that year too. He also won Badminton in 2016 and was second at Badminton in 2017.Michael broke the news about the geldings death via social media on Monday, 16 February, saying: This evening I lost my best friend, Sam . We reached every milestone side by side, and for years I found daily happiness in seeing you grazing in the field. Thank you for 20 years together. You will be deeply missed by all of us. Rest in peace my friend .Sam was retired in 2018 and lived out his days mostly in the field alongside other greats of Michaels stable, such as the wonderful five-star-winning mare, FischerRocana FST.Main image of Michael and Sam competing at Aachen 2017 Davide Mobelli/Crobis/Getty ImagesRelated contentFive gears a confident cross-country horse needs to haveJump out of trot to test rider balance and build trust with this exercise from Piggy MarchFive-step plan for a clear and confident jumping roundTina Cooks top tips for confident jumping on grassThe post We reached every milestone side by side: Michael Jung announces death of one of the greatest event horses of all time appeared first on Your Horse.