The six points of saddle fitting
These points will help ensure the horse can carry the rider comfortably in a saddle.
Read moreCare & Training
Research articles on the care and training of the horse.
Stretching the neck: fairytale or reality
Simplistic thinking often directs theories such as lowering the neck elongates the back muscles.
Read moreResearchers probe pressure from nosebands
Noseband worn applied with “two-finger” rule still exerted large pressure pulses during work.
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Whip use in showjumping probed
Showjumping faults more likely among riders who carry a whip, according to researchers.
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Famous Pavlov experiment carried out on horses
French researchers go a step further, finding temperaments play an important part in response.
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Horse training: Are you a good boss?
Boring routines, picky bosses, limited rewards. Little wonder horses buckle under stress.
Read moreLavender aroma found to calm horses – research
Fifteen minutes of aromatherapy with lavender essential oil reduced the heart rate in horses.
Read moreBenefits of rising trot identified in research
Dutch researcher also delved into the complexities of the riding position of jockeys.
Read moreThe way to a horse’s heart is through food, study shows
The motivational power of a tasty treat far outweighs the pleasure of a rub on the withers.
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Hyperflexion of the neck – a failure of Olympic dimension
The concept of gaining control by exploiting a weak part of the horse is ugly.
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Study casts light on effects of stress in equine learning
Temperament has effect, but only if stress is involved in learning process, study suggests.
Read moreStudy reveals shortcomings in equine work ethic
German scientists investigate the question: Are horses lazy?
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Caution urged over use of negative reinforcement
Study shows negative reinforcement is stressful when used to get horses used to unfamiliar objects.
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Many riders too heavy for their mounts – study
Study suggests just one in 20 riders within the ideal weight range for their horse.
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Stretching and Relaxation: Myths and Reality
Gaits and performances cannot be enhanced by increasing the horse’s vertebral column’s range of motion.
Read moreWhat’s in it for the horse, asks scientist
Do horses share their rider’s enjoyment of sporting and recreational activities?
Read moreDr Bidda Jones on horse keeping and horse sports
Comment by Dr Bidda Jones on stabling, whipping, jumps racing, and horse sport in general.
Read moreInteraction between horse, saddle and rider studied
British review proposes how next steps may be taken to improve understanding.
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Working out the weight of your horse
It’s important to know your horse’s weight, so that medications can be given accurately.
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Bent out of shape: Reflections on Rollkur
Hyperflexion has been around a long time, but equine physiology is still being ignored.
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