Solo hacking

Ready to start hacking out by yourself? Check out Meg Elphick’s tips for staying safe and having fun

Hacking out with your friends is great fun, but if you’re not stabled close together you might find it tricky to organise a time and day for a pony party all together. So, being able to hack solo safely is a great way to make sure your pony still has a varied routine even when you can’t get together for a group ride. It can also make your pony more confident all-round. So, here are my tips for setting yourself up for success.

TOP TIP

Always bring a mobile phone with you when you hack. It’s a good idea to let someone at the yard know when you’re leaving and what time you’ll be back, too.

Helping hand

A pony companion is the ultimate confidence-booster out on a hack, and if your pony’s used to having a friend with him, it can be daunting taking him out by himself. Luckily, there’s a great middle ground for when you’re preparing to go solo.

How to practise Why not take a friend or parent on foot with you to start with? Having an extra pair of hands will help you relax and they can lead your pony past anything spooky if he’s worried. It’s a great interim between hacking with a pal and riding solo, so use your helper to give you both a boost.

TOP TIP

Double check all your gear’s in working order before leaving the yard to help keep you safe.

For more great tips from Meg on hacking your pony solo, pick up a copy of July PONY mag, on sale 01 June 2022.