I include some obstacle/ground rail work in most lessons I teach. Why obstacles?3 reasons beyond the variety and fun…

Navigating horse trail obstacles requires patience. Obstacles, step-by-step, may not appeal to thrill seekers, requiring slow training; patience and pausing between steps. Consequently, many riders don’t practice them (until they get to the horse shows)!

Navigating horse trail obstacles – benefits of focusing on your horse’s footwork? Lateral skills to improve other horse activities such as positioning for lead departures or opening a gate from horseback.

Obstacle riding disciplines – Working Equitation, Mountain Trail, Show Trail, Ranch trail, Extreme Cowboy.  The appeal of riding over obstacles? A change and challenge from dressage circles or the western pleasure rail. Others are opting out of jumping for a less risky challenge.