Most people consider that they have good posture, especially those who are active and care for and ride horses. But as we get older, and with the stresses of life, our posture can become compromised and because the human body is so incredible, these changes are often gradual. This means that we wont necessarily realise that our posture has altered and is no longer considered to be good posture.The truth is, most people, including horse riders, will have a compromised posture. Understanding the posture type that most resembles your own type will provide insight into which muscles are compromised and are holding you back from your core functioning optimally both in and out of the saddle.Correcting the function of these identified muscles through exercises should improve how your core functions and in turn improve a horse riders position. This is the starting point. Once your body has a more correct posture, riding challenges should lessen, or disappear altogether.Correct (optimal) postureOptimal or correct posture is proper alignment of the spine and body. This is alignment that maintains the three normal curves in the cervical (neck), thoracic (upper part of the back) and lumber (lower part of the back) areas.Anyone who doesnt have the correct posture will most likely fall into one of the three most common posture types:Kyphotic postureKyphotic posture is an increased curvature of the thoracic (upper) part of the spine. The main cause is bad postural and lifestyle habits. Other causes relate to genetic abnormalities or major trauma, injuries, or surgeries.Horse riders with kyphotic posture have reduced lumbar lordosis and possible posterior tilt, and their head may be forward.Muscles in the chest and shoulders will be tight/shortened, while muscles in the upper back and neck will be weak/lengthened.Challenges for horse riders with this postureHorse riders with kyphotic posture are likely to struggle with:Being reliant on the reins with their arms often straight and held downwards.Feeling behind the movement. Lower leg sits too far forward.Collapsing in up and down transitions.Always being told to sit up.Having rounded shoulders and unable to bring them backwards without discomfort.Pulling themselves forward and out of the saddle in trot, with knees on.Lordotic postureLordotic posture involves an increased lumbar lordosis (curvature of the lower back) and increased anterior tilt of the pelvis (the pelvis tilts forward). Due to the increased tilt of the pelvis, there is an increased flexion (bend) in the hip joints. The main cause is bad posture and lifestyle habits. Other causes relate to major trauma, injuries, or surgeries.Muscles in the hip flexor group and erector spinae group will be tight/shortened and muscles in the glutes, hamstrings and abdominals will be weak/lengthened.Challenges for horse riders with this posturePeople with this posture will often:Struggle to sit up and maintain their position in the saddle.Collapse through transitions, particularly downward ones.Hold their hands in a downward, fixed position.Lean forward in rising trot and canter.Have soreness and tension in the groin and inside the thigh due to excessive gripping.Be very easily unbalanced.Heels curl upward toward the bottom.Sway back postureWith a sway back posture there is an increase in the posterior tilt of the pelvis and the trunk with a thoracic kyphosis (rounding of the upper back). The riders knees are often locked, with the front of the pelvis pushed forward, but the pelvis is rotated slightly backwards.The main cause of sway back is bad posture and lifestyle habits. Other causes relate to genetic abnormalities or major trauma, injuries, or surgeries.The hamstrings, abdominals and glutes are tight/shortened and the hip flexor group and erector spinae group are weak/lengthened.Challenges for horse riders with this postureThese riders often struggle with:Being reliant on the reins, with arms straight and held downwards.Feeling behind the movement. Lower leg sits too far forward.Collapsing in up and down transitions.Trotting feeling clumsy and out of control.Excessive bouncing in trot before canter.Pelvic tiltsThe ASIS and PSIS is shownLordotic posture is associated with an anterior (front) pelvic tilt and sway back with a posterior pelvic tilt. A kyphotic posture may or may not have a pelvic tilt.The tilt of the pelvis is determined by measuring the angle of the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS). These are bony structures on the front and back of the pelvis and can be felt with the fingers.There are many considerations when measuring the range of the ASIS and PSIS. Generally, a neutral pelvis is when a straight line can pass from one to the other, or with a slight anterior (forward) angle of 7-10 degrees.Tilting forwardAnterior tilt with the pelvis rotated forwardAn anterior pelvic tilt occurs when the pelvis is rotated forward, causing an increased curve in the lumbar (lower back) spine and the appearance of a bulging stomach.Tilting backwardsA posterior pelvic tilt occurs when the pelvis is rotated backwards. This causes the riders back to be pulled downwards, giving the appearance of a flat back and flat bottom.How to assess a horse riders posturePosterior tilt with the pelvis rotated backwardsTo assess your posture, get someone to take a picture of you, or you could use the timer on your phone. When you are ready, you should take three small jumps on the spot. When you land for the third time, dont move at all until the photo is taken. This ensures that you dont position yourself for the photo.Compare your photo with the diagrams above to see which best resembles your posture.It is very important to note that if you dont have an optimal posture, it doesnt mean that there is something wrong with you. Conditions associated with posture types have many symptoms other than posture. If in doubt, arrange to see a doctor.Exercises to improve kyphotic postureResistance arm circlesResistance arm circlesNB You shouldnt do this exercise if you have recently had a shoulder injury.Stand with your feet a hip width apart.Hold your arms straight out in front of you, holding a resistance band wider than shoulder width, with an overhand grip.Lift your arms up and over your head, still holding the resistance band.Bring your arms downwards behind your back.Return your arms to the front.If you cant get your hands behind your back, take a wider grip on the band or do it without one. If it feels too easy, take a smaller grip (narrower than shoulder width).Common issues with this exercise include:Your arms getting stuck, which means you are unable to take your hands behind you due to chest tightness.One arm being straighter than the other. Both arms should be straight.The movement isnt smooth.Your arms wont go behind your back. In this case, take a wider grip on the band or do the exercise without one.Resistance rowsResistance rowsWith a staggered stance, place your forward foot in the centre of the band so that it is secure under your foot.Bend forward from the hip and hold the band firmly with your hand on the same side as the foot holding the band.Ensure that you take a grip quite far down on the band around your knee area.Remaining in the bent forward position, roll your shoulder back and then bring your elbow back, keeping it close to your side, until your hand is at your rib cage.Slowly control the movement back and repeat.Common issues with this exercise include:Your back doesnt remain straight throughout the movement, causing neck discomfort.You dont have enough of a staggered stance, which will cause lower back discomfort.Your arm is brought outwards as well as backwards.Not keeping your shoulder back and allowing it to round forward.Exercises to improve lordotic postureAbdominal tapsAbdominal tapsLay on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.Cross your hands over your chest and rest your thumbs lightly under your chin.In one smooth movement, lift your shoulders off the floor and bring your knees towards your chest. Dont sit up.Control the movement down. Lightly tap the floor with your feet and repeat.Common issues with this exercise include:Coming up too high into a sit up.Not lifting your shoulders off the floor and just curling your head.Lack of control during the movement.Overhead squatsOverhead squatsStand with your legs a hip width apart or slightly wider.Lift your arms straight up above your head and keep them there throughout the whole movement.Push your bottom backwards as you go down towards the ground.Go as low as you comfortably can.Slowly stand back up.Common issues include:Lowering your body straight down instead of pushing the bottom backwards.Cant keep the arms straight above the head.Collapsing forward during the squat and bringing the arms forward.A lack of depth in the squat.Lifting your heels off the floor.Knees collapsing inward on the downward movement.Balancing on the outside of your foot.Exercises to improve sway backModified mountain climberMountain climbersStart in the plank position; on your hands with straight arms and on your toes.Slowly bring your right knee towards your right elbow as far as you can and return to the start position.Slowly bring your left knee towards your left elbow as far as you can and return to the start position.Common issues include:Going too fast and having no control through the movement.Having your bottom too high in the air.Hips dipping towards the floor.Collapsing through the shoulders.Alternative reverse lungeReverse lungeStand with your feet together and take a medium step back with one foot.As you move your foot backwards, start to lower yourself towards the floor, bending at the knee.Dont touch the floor with your knee, but get as close as you can.In one movement, push yourself upwards and forward back to the standing position.Repeat on the opposite side.Common issues include:Not taking a big enough step back to accommodate the lunge.A lack of depth for the lunge towards the floor.Wobbling during the movement.Wobbling at the bottom of the lunge.Struggling to get out of the lunge position.Number of repetitionsPerform both exercises for each posture type as a mini circuit.Do 10 repetitions with good control and be aware of how you are doing the exercises, and then move on to the next one and do another 10 repetitions without a break.After you have done both exercises, have a short break (under two minutes) and repeat for a total of four circuits.This should be repeated three times a week only.Many of the challenges riders experience in the saddle will be related to whether or not their core is functioning optimally.These exercises will help you to start correcting your posture and get your core functioning optimally.Free Zoom WebinarsRiderCise is hosting three free Zoom webinars as part of The Strong Rider Program:Wednesday 4 September: 5 Little Known Secrets of a Riders Conscious Mind with Dr Tracey ColeWednesday 11 September: The Power of Reflection and Acknowledgement with Diana BurgessWednesday 18 September: Ride with Strength: Boost Your Energy and Clarity through Gut Health with Julia TyrerThe Strong Rider Program is a six-month online programme that tackles the mindset,nutrition, andphysicalaspects toovercome the challengesthat are holding riders back from beingthe rider they want to be. Find out moreRelated contentFive common problems with a riders jumping position solvedCheck and improve your position with Dr Russell Mackechnie-Guires helpTest your hand position with this simple exerciseWhy a horses bad behaviour could be a plea for helpThe post Have you got good posture? appeared first on Your Horse.

Ocala, FL The $50,000 NSBA Junior Trail & $5,000 Limited Rider Junior Trail Bonuses and L2/L3 AQHA was the highly anticipated featured class on day four of The Championship Show 2024. Twenty-six horse-and-rider pairs tackled an intricate course designed by Tim Kimura, but it was Blake Weis aboard Dark Ladie, owned by Mary Alice Nielson and Allie Nielson, who came out on top, claiming[...]Read MoreThe post The Championship Show; Monday, September 9, 2024 Featured Class Highlights appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

Names with a royal theme have featured highly in a survey of horse names from equestrian brand Harry Hall, confirming that the royal family remain extremely popular among the riding community.Harry Hall asked over 15,000 members of its One Club to submit their horses names and subsequently compiled a list of the most popular ones.At the top of the list was Charlie, a nod to the UKs current monarch, King Charles III. The names of his youngest son Prince Harry and grandsons Prince George and Prince Louis also featured in the top 20, as did Megan, William and Princess.The names Prince, Archie (Prince Harrys son) and Henry (Prince Harrys official name) were not far behind in the list, which featured 10,000 names.Giving your horse a royally connected name is a popular choice and its fantastic to see that the original equestrians are still honoured, said Liz Hopper, managing director of Harry Hall.Short and concise names are also top choices from UK horse owners. It is a great way to avoid confusion with other words and phrases.Harry Hall is the equestrian tailor to Buckingham Palace.Your horse is an individual, so taking the time to learn their personality can help to guide your name choice, continued Liz.Were also thrilled to see Harry rank so highly, named partly after the prince and of course our founder: Harry Hall.Top 10 horse namesCharlieRosieTillyJackBonnieBellaMollyBillyRubyPoppyTop 10 horse names with royal linksCharlieLouisHarryGeorgePrinceArchieHenryMeganWilliamPrincessOther common horse names with a royal connection include Duchess, Albert and Zara.To find out more and generate your horse name, visit: harryhallinsurance.com/horse-name-generatorMain image: King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the royal carriage en route to Horse Guards Parade on 15 June 2024. Credit: ShutterstockRelated contentHow the late Queen saved one of Britains oldest horse breedsWhat was it like to ride for Queen Elizabeth II?Ultimate A-Z guide to horse health insurance and vet fees coverZara Tindalls secrets to jumping skinniesThe post Horse names with royal links are a popular choice, survey finds appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Introduction Reincarnation: the belief in rebirth of the soul in a new body.Explores perspectives, historical significance, and stories. Origins and Cultural Significance Hinduism: "samsara" cycle influenced by "karma".Buddhism: Focus on enlightenment to break rebirth cycle. Hinduism "Samsara" - cycle of birth, death, rebirth.Karma shapes existence.Goal: Liberation through spiritual practices. Buddhism Cycle of rebirth acknowledged.Enlightenment as path to liberation.Moral choices affect future lives. African Perspectives Unique beliefs similar to reincarnation.Transmigration of spirit: Attributes passed across individuals without death.Bomitaba: Ancestors identified in newborns. Personal Stories Individuals claim past life memories.Example: James Leininger - memories of a fighter pilot. Role of Karma Fundamental in Hinduism and Buddhism.Actions shape future experiences (Positive actions = Positive outcomes). Scientific and Philosophical Perspectives Debated topic.James Matlock: "Signs of Reincarnation" explores belief, experience, and past life recollections. Impact on Modern Spirituality Influences modern spirituality and New Age philosophies.Emphasis on personal responsibility and moral development across lifetimes. Conclusion Challenges thinking beyond immediate experiences.Encourages compassion, deeper understanding, and exploration of shared human experiences. Do You Believe in Reincarnation? Exploring Different Perspectives and Stories Reincarnation, the belief that the soul or consciousness is reborn into a new body after death, has captivated human imagination across cultures and centuries. This concept, deeply rooted in various religious and philosophical traditions, continues to inspire debate, curiosity, and personal reflection. In this blog, we will delve into the diverse perspectives on reincarnation, explore its historical and cultural significance, and examine some remarkable stories that challenge our understanding of life and death. Origins and Cultural Significance Reincarnation is not confined to a single culture or religion; it emerges independently in various civilizations around the world. Two of the most prominent traditions that feature reincarnation are Hinduism and Buddhism. Hinduism In Hinduism, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth is known as "samsara." This cycle is influenced by "karma," the law of cause and effect, where one's actions in previous lives shape their current existence. The ultimate goal is to achieve liberation from this cycle through spiritual practices and good deeds. Buddhism Buddhism also acknowledges the cycle of rebirth but emphasizes the importance of enlightenment as a path to liberation. The concept of karma is central here as well, with moral choices in one life affecting the circumstances of the next. African Perspectives on Reincarnation While reincarnation as understood in Eastern traditions is not prevalent in African cultures, there are unique beliefs that share similarities with the concept. Transmigration of Spirit In some African traditions, such as the Bukngo and Bomitaba cultures, there is a belief in the transmigration of spirit rather than the reincarnation of the soul. This means that the attributes and abilities of one person are projected onto another, often without the need for death. For example, the Bomitaba tradition involves identifying which ancestors have "come through" a newborn child, who then inherits their qualities and is expected to fulfill specific missions. Personal Stories and Experiences Many individuals claim to have memories or experiences that they attribute to past lives. These accounts often involve detailed recollections of specific events, places, or people from a time period in which they could not have lived in their current lifetime. James Leininger One notable case is that of James Leininger, who began recounting memories of being a fighter pilot at the age of two. His vivid descriptions of aircraft and battles were documented by his parents and have been widely discussed as a possible case of reincarnation. The Role of Karma Karma is a fundamental concept intertwined with reincarnation, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism. It suggests that every action has consequences that shape future experiences. Positive actions lead to positive outcomes, while negative actions result in negative consequences. This interplay between karma and reincarnation offers a sense of justice and balance in the world. Scientific and Philosophical Perspectives While reincarnation remains a subject of debate and speculation, some researchers and scholars have approached the topic with a mix of scientific inquiry and philosophical analysis. James Matlock In his book Signs of Reincarnation, James Matlock, a research fellow at the Parapsychology Foundation of New York, explores the interaction between belief and experience related to reincarnation. He discusses various signs and recollections of past lives, arguing that these experiences cannot be easily explained by alternative hypotheses source. Impact on Modern Spirituality Reincarnation continues to influence spiritual practices and philosophical discourse worldwide. In contemporary times, it plays a significant role in certain sects of modern spirituality and New Age philosophies. These beliefs often emphasize personal responsibility for one's actions and moral development across lifetimes, providing a profound sense of purpose and continuity. Conclusion The concept of reincarnation, whether viewed through the lens of spiritual teachings, personal stories, or scientific inquiry, challenges us to think beyond the confines of our immediate experiences. It invites us to consider the broader implications of our existence and the interconnectedness of all beings. Whether or not one believes in reincarnation, the narratives surrounding it remind us that our stories are intricately woven together, transcending time and space. As we ponder the mysteries of life and the possibility of rebirth, we may find ourselves inspired to live more fully, embrace compassion, and seek a greater understanding of the world around us. The exploration of reincarnation, in all its forms and interpretations, opens the door to a realm of possibilities, encouraging us to embrace the unknown and seek meaning in the shared human experience. Explore More Discover more about horse riding equipment and apparel that can enhance your experiences: Jodhpur Collection Horse Riding Boot Collection Horse Riding Gloves Collection Horse Riding Socks Collection Horse Treats And Gifts Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements Stable Rugs Turnout Rugs Horse Fly Protection

The start-list for the second qualifier of the 2024 Foal Championship, at Kernans EC, Co Armagh, is now available. This year there will be four provincial qualifiers held in September with separate categories for horses and ponies, and separate sections for potential showjumping foals and potential eventing foals. At each of the qualifiers the winning foal of each class will be selected for the Final in October: the best show jumping type, the best eventing type, as well as one Traditional horse foal per province. The final will be held in Emerald EC, Co Kildare on the 24th October. For the start-list please click HERE The Grand Final will take place at the end of October with Champions being named in both horse and pony sections for the Champion Showjumping Foal and Champion Eventing Foal. There will also be a Champion prize for the overall best traditionally bred foal. Applications []

Topic Key Points Consider the Material and Construction Galvanized Metal: Durable, deters rodents, resistant to corrosion, best in temperature-controlled room. Food-Grade Steel: Non-reactive liner needed, such as porcelain or food-safe paint. Size and Capacity Calculate Your Needs: Example: 6-ton bin for feed usage over 5-7 weeks. Space Considerations: Fit comfortably in stable, may require space and infrastructure like gravel and concrete bases. Moisture Control Condensation Prevention: Fiberglass bins are good for keeping feed dry and preventing sweating. Cool, Dry Location: Store in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture accumulation. Rodent and Pest Protection Rodent-Resistant Materials: Galvanized metal trash cans deter rodents. Sealed Lids: Secure lids to prevent access by pests. Ease of Use and Maintenance Accessibility: Choose a bin that is easy to fill and empty, such as metal hopper-style bins. Cleaning: Consider the cleaning process; metal bins are more challenging but better for pest protection. Budget and Value Cost vs. Benefits: Metal bins are more expensive but offer long-term durability and pest protection. Longevity: A well-made metal feedbin can last for many years. How to Choose the Best Metal Feedbin for Your Stable: Expert Tips and Recommendations Choosing the right metal feedbin for your stable is crucial for maintaining the quality and freshness of your animal feed, while also ensuring the health and safety of your livestock. Here are some expert tips and recommendations to help you make an informed decision. Consider the Material and Construction When selecting a metal feedbin, the material and construction are key factors to consider. Galvanized metal is a popular choice because it is durable and can effectively deter rodents, which is a significant advantage. Key Points: Galvanized Metal: This type of metal is resistant to corrosion and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, it is important to note that warm air hitting cold metal can cause condensation, which may lead to mold growth. Therefore, it is best to keep these bins in a temperature-controlled room. Food-Grade Steel: If you decide to use steel bins, ensure they are food-grade to prevent the feed from reacting with the metal. Food-grade steel barrels often have a non-reactive liner, such as porcelain or food-safe paint. Size and Capacity The size of the feedbin should be determined by the amount of feed you need to store and the space available in your stable. Key Points: Calculate Your Needs: Assess how much feed you go through in a given period. For example, if you refill your bin every 5-7 weeks, a 6-ton bin might be suitable. Space Considerations: Ensure the bin fits comfortably in your stable without obstructing movement or access. Larger bins may require more space and infrastructure, such as gravel and concrete bases. Moisture Control Moisture is a significant enemy of feed quality. Heres how to choose a bin that minimizes moisture issues: Key Points: Condensation Prevention: All bins can condense moisture, but some materials are better at preventing this. For instance, fiberglass bins are known for keeping feed dry and preventing sweating. Cool, Dry Location: Regardless of the material, it is crucial to store the feedbin in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture accumulation. According to Backyard Poultry, keeping feed dry is essential for maintaining its longevity. Rodent and Pest Protection Protecting your feed from rodents and other pests is essential for maintaining feed quality and preventing contamination. Key Points: Rodent-Resistant Materials: Galvanized metal trash cans are effective at deterring rodents because they cannot chew through the metal. Sealed Lids: Ensure the bin has a secure lid that raccoons and other dexterous critters cannot open. This will help prevent unwanted access to the feed. Ease of Use and Maintenance The ease of use and maintenance of the feedbin should also be a consideration. Key Points: Accessibility: Choose a bin that is easy to fill and empty. For example, metal hopper-style bins can be a bit more challenging to fill but are generally easier to clean. Cleaning: Consider the cleaning process. Metal bins can be more of a challenge to clean compared to plastic bins, but they offer better protection against pests. Interested in more tips? Check out our Stable Rugs Collection. Budget and Value Finally, consider the budget and overall value of the feedbin. Key Points: Cost vs. Benefits: While metal bins may be more expensive upfront, they offer long-term benefits such as durability and pest protection. For example, a 6-ton metal bin might cost around $3,000 plus additional costs for installation, but it can be well worth the investment. According to CattleToday.com, metal feedbins are a durable option with long-term value. Longevity: A well-made metal feedbin can last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for your stable. Looking for quality riding apparel? Explore our Horse Riding Gloves Collection. Conclusion Choosing the best metal feedbin for your stable involves careful consideration of several factors, including material, size, moisture control, pest protection, ease of use, and budget. By following these expert tips and recommendations, you can ensure that your feed remains fresh and your livestock stays healthy. Interested in more products? Discover our Jodhpur Collection today!

In partnership with SPILLERSHave you ever found yourself wondering how you can improve your horses energy levels without compromising his waistline? A lack of energy, sparkle or oomph is a common reason owners turn to a nutritionist for advice about their horses diet, especially if their equine is a good doer.While a lack of energy in the diet may seem like the most obvious culprit, diet is just one of many factors that can affect the horses energy levels. On the other hand, a diet that supplies too much energy could also be the problem.Time for a health checkA number of clinical conditions can affect a horses energy levels, so its important to seek veterinary advice if you have any concerns, especially if lethargy is sudden, severe or out of character.The vet will usually ask lots of questions, carry out a physical examination and in some cases take some bloods. If an underlying clinical issue, pain or poorly fitting saddle can be ruled out, its time to consider other potential causes.Energy in vs energy outThe best practical way of assessing whether any horse is consuming sufficient energy for their workload is to look at their body condition.Put simply:Overweight horses are consuming too much energy (unless they are losing weight);Underweight horses arent consuming enough energy;If your horse is maintaining a healthy body condition youve hit the sweet spot, regardless of their ridden energy levels.If your horse is already in good or overweight condition, dont be tempted to increase the amount of energy in their bucket.Putting on weightIn addition to carrying a host of health and welfare risks, excess weight gain can have a negative effect on a horses energy levels and in turn their performance.If your horse has piled on the pounds, slimming them down to a healthy body condition may improve their energy under saddle.Exercising while overweight is hard work!A balanced dietVitamins and minerals are needed for optimum health, and many are involved in energy metabolism which means a shortfall in the diet could result in lethargy.Balancers are ideal for good doers because they provide the vitamins, minerals and amino acids needed to balance forage, while adding minimal calories, starch and sugar to the horses diet.Sources of energyFeeds high in cereal starch do promote a more energetic response in some horses, although the reasons for this are not fully understood.This is why some owners choose traditional competition mixes or oats for those horses that are lazy or in need of extra sparkle.However, this strategy isnt suitable (or effective!) for all horses, including those prone to laminitis, gastric ulcers, tying up and colic.Equally, introducing feeds high in fibre and oil which are often described as sources of slow-release energy, wont compensate for a lack of stamina caused by poor fitness or a lack of training.Naturally laidback?Every horse is an individual and, in some cases, lethargy is simply a part of the horses temperament.Some horses are naturally laidback and prefer to take life at a slower pace.While this can help to provide a much-needed confidence boost to novice or nervous riders, those ready to step up a gear may be better suited to a horse that is naturally more forward going.Boredom bustingWe all feel more enthusiastic about exercising if its an activity we enjoy and, like people, horses can get bored.Adding some variety to your horses workload may help to increase their energy levels.Fitness factorFitness is one of the factors that has greatest influence on energy levels, particularly stamina, so its important to be honest about whether your horse is fit enough for the work theyre being asked to do.Speak to an instructor/trainer for advice on improving your horses fitness and maintaining a varied workload.If your horse has recently been lame, always seek veterinary advice before bringing them back into work.For friendly, advice on feeding your horse or pony you can contact the SPILLERS Care-Line on 01908 226626 or visit www.spillers-feeds.comLead image by SpillersHave you heard about Your Horses#FitNotFatcampaign? Equine obesity is an enormous welfare problem and were on a mission to provide owners and riders with the knowledge, skills and information you need to keep your horse in tip-top health. It could be life saving! FindoutmoreRelated contentSoaking hay: hay to do it correctlyHay vs haylage: which is best?How to feed straw as a partial hay/haylage replacerPerfect portions: put your feeding knowledge to the testThe post How to boost energy levels without the horse putting on weight appeared first on Your Horse.

Para equestrian Sallyanne says the Air Ambulance saved her life when her horse reared up and fell backwards on top of her, severing her spinal cord in the process.I thought I was going to die, said Sallyanne, who has ridden since the age of seven. The accident occurred at a riding club event, when the mare she was riding refused at a jump and reared up when represented.This week is Air Ambulance Week (9-15 September), organised by Air Ambulances UK, and Sallyanne is sharing her story to raise awareness of how important the medical service is, including for horse riders.In 2023 alone, the Air Ambulance rescued more than 208 riders at an average cost of 4,110* every time the helicopter is called out. It receives no government funding and so depends on public donations in order to operate.Watch Sallyanne and the doctors talk about the accident in the video below:My fear subsidedSallyanne has been excelling in para dressageIn the case of Sallyanne, a crew from Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) attended the scene to administer strong pain relief and take control of the riders injuries.They then airlifted her to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, their nearest Major Trauma Centre.When the Air Ambulance arrived my fear subsided. I felt safe, said Sallyanne, a former nurse.One of the doctors, Greg, held my hand the whole time and never left my side throughout the whole procedure.The reassurance he gave me was wonderful. I knew I was in safe hands.Sallyanne broke multiple vertebrae from T11 L2 and sustained a spinal cord injury at L1.The mother-of-two underwent a nine-hour operation to stabilise her spine and spent a further six months in hospital.She was paralysed from the waist down, with bladder and bowel complications, and now uses a wheelchair.Washing in the kitchen sinkSallyanne is lifted into the saddleA long journey ensued to adapt her three-storey townhouse into a more accessible home.I had a hospital bed in my lounge, and I slept downstairs for nine months, adds Sallyanne.I couldnt get to the bathroom to use the loo or shower, so I went to a friends house once a week and the local sports centre for a shower.This was extremely difficult washing in the kitchen sink has its challenges.Since the accident, Sallyanne has learned to drive again and organised many charity fundraising events, including a charity ball in aid of GWAAC that raised 6,000.She now works supporting other individuals who have suffered spinal injuries and have bladder and bowel conditions.Sallyanne has also started riding again and competed at her local county RDA championships.GWAAC is a very close charity to me and my family, who came to my rescue on that fateful day, she said. There were my knights in shining armour.I encourage people to donate and raise money, as you never know when you or someone you know may need its services.Every bit helps. I look at how far I have come and I smile.Frontline emergency servicesAir Ambulance Week is the only week of the year dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the vital lifesaving work of air ambulance charities.There are 37 air ambulance helicopters in the UK operated by 21 air ambulance charities.They provide pre-hospital care support to the NHS and form an important part of the UKs frontline emergency services.Anyone anywhere in the UK can become a patient at any time. The message, Todays Supporter, Tomorrows Lifesaver, reminds us that by becoming a supporter today, you can help save lives tomorrow, said a statement from Air Ambulances UK.To show your support for Air Ambulance Week, you can make a one-off donation to Air Ambulances UK or get in direct contact with your local air ambulance charity.*Cost varies depending on geography, patient need, clinical and operational models of the local air ambulance charity.The post Rider paralysed in fall praises Air Ambulances life-saving service appeared first on Your Horse.

Working with your horses digestive system as nature intended could be key to helping your horse thrive. Read on to see the Horslyx Back To Basics Guide as featured in Horse & Hound.Understanding the evolution of the horse as a trickle feeder of forages and the equine digestive system helps us understand what a horse or pony requires in a balanced diet. Horses have evolved to continuously roam over vast areas and graze, or trickle-feed for 1618 hours per day. Today, horses are kept in relative luxury compared to their ancestors. However, their digestive system is still similar, so a horse still needs this trickle-feed supply of nutrients to remain in optimum health.How it worksThe digestive system starts with the mouth, chewing and licking releases saliva, which helps to buffer stomach acidity. The horses stomach is the size of a rugby ball and is where the digestion starts, continues in the small intestine, and is completed in the hindgut. Two thirds of the equine digestive system is in the hindgut, where the fermentation of fibre occurs by micro-organisms and beneficial bacteria.When the hindgut is healthy, and the horse is trickle-fed ample amounts of good quality forage, plus a balanced diet, the hindgut will provide the horse with warmth from the fermentation of fibre and a range of B-vitamins which ensure that the horses skin and coat are healthy, and his hooves are in good condition.However, a long-term undersupply of minerals, including trace elements and vitamins, can lead to more serious problems, some of which cannot be rectified. It is important, irrespective of workload that the horses diet is balanced in terms of gross and micro nutrients to maintain normal health and performance expectations. The horse has evolved to be a trickle feeder, with the majority of its diet to be comprised of forage, its important to remember that grass is not balanced ideally for a horse, so using a balancer to balance the deficiencies results in a healthier animal.Common MisconceptionsIt is a common misconception that balancers only come in a bag and form part of a complementary feeding system. Balancers can also include feed licks and comprehensive powdered supplements. Balancers are not miracle cures and will fail to have the desired effect if they are underfed to cut costs or not fed at the appropriate daily frequency.Balancers have been designed to overcome the shortfall in required nutrients of horses consuming a largely forage based diet. The choice of balancer is important as it is not only the purchase cost of the balancer that should be taken into consideration but also the ancillary requirements, whether that be time and frequency of feeding, storage conditions, or dedicated feeding equipment. An ideal situation is to provide horses free access to balancers consumed alongside the forage in a trickle-feeding fashion rather than in a once or twice-daily hit.Like all complementary feeds, it is important that balancers are not wasted, so they need to be palatable for the duration of time that they are available to the horse. Another key point is to ensure that Balancer combinations are avoided to prevent potential over supply issues of trace elements.Formulated in the UKHorslyx Balancers have been carefully formulated to balance the deficiencies in forage and grazing. This is a unique and innovative approach to ensuring that the modern horse receives an ideal supply of vitamins, minerals and trace elements to support optimum health and vitality. Promoting a natural trickle feed pattern that allows the horse to self-regulate and consume Horslyx when required. All Horslyx need to be licked, which takes patience. Horses only produce saliva when biting, chewing, or licking, and saliva is an excellent natural buffer and lubricant within the gastrointestinal tract. This leads to better digestion, less stress, and a happier, healthier horse.Horslyx Balancers are ideal for all equines, both competition and leisure, stabled and grass kept, and are even suitable for laminitis prone equines. With six balancers to choose from, find the right Horslyx Balancer for your horse:Horslyx Original Balancer is suitable for all horses, from those at rest requiring a low calorie diet to performance horses who may require additional supplementation to meet their nutritional requirements.Horslyx Mint Balancer is made with real peppermint oil. The aroma and taste of mint often makes it an ideal appetite stimulant for fussy equines.Horslyx Mobility Balancer can help maintain healthy joints for the performance horse that requires support for hard working joints or as an aid for older horses, with Glucosamine HCI, MSM & Omega 3 Oils and a combination of powerful antioxidants.Horslyx Respiratory Balancer provides a two-pronged approach to supporting a healthy respiratory system. Ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus, and aniseed support the airways; meanwhile, the high-specification balancer package helps to maintain immunity.Horslyx Pro Digest Balancer can be fed to support the digestive system from the stomach to the hindgut. Ingredients include Slippery Elm and Seaweed Meal are as a source of mucilage.Horslyx Garlic Balancer contains pure garlic oil to help provide a natural and effective way to help combat the problem of biting insects.Horslyx Balancers are manufactured under a Hazard Awareness and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system in accordance with the Universal Feed Assurance Scheme and the BETA NOPS code. This means that Horslyx are of the highest standards and are available for competition use under HRA/FEI competition rules. Shop all Horslyx The post How Horslyx Balancers can Benefit your Horses Diet first appeared on Redpost Equestrian Blog.