Go exploring

Adventure

There’s nothing more epic than an adventure with your pony and your friends! No matter what speed you’re going at, or the route you take, you’re sure to have the best time. 

Bridleways

To help protect the environment – and keep other countryside users safe – make sure you stick to horse-friendly routes. Follow the signs for bridleways and byways and you’ll have hours of happy hacking. 

Cool down

Going for a little plod after a schooling session is the ideal way to cool your pony down. You could go down the track to his field, along the road and back or around the local woods – either way your pony’s sure to appreciate the change of scenery at the end of a session! 

Ditches

Come across a ditch? Once you’ve checked it’s safe, why not jump it!? It’s perfect cross-country practice as well as a wacky addition to your adventure!

Emergency

It’s super-important to tell an adult at your yard you’re going hacking, including your route, how long you’ll be and who you’re with. Always carry a mobile phone, and have important numbers saved in case of an emergency. 

Footpath

These are for two feet, not four! So, stay on the lookout for footpath signs and avoiding taking those routes. 

Grass

Exercising your pony on a variety of surfaces can help reduce the risk of injury. Plus, it’ll boost his confidence so when it comes to competing on grass, you’ll feel fully prepped! 

Hillwork

There are tonnes of benefits that come with hillwork! Riding downhill will boost your pony’s balance, whereas riding up helps to build his strength and power because he has to really push from his hindquarters.

Information

It’s always a good idea to look up your route beforehand, but have you ever got lost on your adventure and wondered what to do? Try asking a dog walker or cyclist to point you in the right direction. Considering the forecast and ground conditions before you set off is key to having a fun hack, too. 

Jump

What’s more exciting than coming across a log with the perfect footing either side? Nothing! If it’s long enough why not trying jumping it alongside your bestie?

Kick on

Whether it’s just for fun or you’re tackling a fitness session, going for a canter is sure to help you both de-stress and feel good. 

Long and low

If you’re feeling confident and in control, try incorporating some long and low work into your hacking routine. It’s great for your pony’s topline development and you might find he’s more willing to do it because hacking makes him feel relaxed and supple.  

Mud

It’s fine to ride through shallow mud, but take care if the ground is boggy and deep – it could cause your pony to lose a shoe, cut himself from overreaching or strain a ligament.  

Nod

Always be polite to other road users. If you aren’t able to take your hands off the reins to say ‘thank you’, you can nod and say it out loud to show your appreciation for their consideration. Don’t forget to be courteous to other riders, walkers and cyclists, too – a friendly ‘hello’ and a smile goes a long way.

Overpass

Riding on a road bridge might feel strange to you, but it’s even more odd for your pony. He won’t understand why or how cars are disappearing underneath him and then reappearing on the other side, so reassure him with your voice and, if safe to do so, ask someone to walk alongside you the first few times. 

Puddle

Splashing through puddles is sooo much fun! They’re also handy for building your pony’s confidence with water. 

Quick-thinking

Be sure to stay vigilant and on the lookout for unusual situations or objects that your pony might find worrying or spooky. If you’re one step ahead and notice something before he does, you can deal with it quickly and calmly. 

Roadwork

Whether or not you use the roads regularly, it’s vital that you understand the rules of riding on roads. Check out the Highway Code for more info!

Schooling

Do you dread riding round and round the arena? Why not have a go at tackling your schooling sessions while hacking? It’ll definitely spice things up a bit!

Terrain

You’re likely to come across a wide variety of terrain while out hacking. Undulating ground, stony pathways or slippy surfaces – consider yours and your pony’s safety before riding over them. 

Undergrowth

This makes a great home for wildlife, so avoid disturbing them. Plus you don’t know what the ground conditions are like when you can’t see the floor – it could be full of rabbit holes or protruding roots that could cause your pony to trip.

Visibility

Whether you’re riding on roads, through woodland or out in the open make sure you’re visible to others. Ideally, wear at least two items of high-vis – one on you and one on your pony – and avoid wearing dark colours. This is especially important on dull or very bright days.

Water

Going for a hack down by a river or along a beach is sure to be at the top of your hacking bucket list! Even if you don’t feel brave enough to attempt a paddle, riding along the riverbank or shore will be a breathtaking experience. 

Level X-ing

The combination of loud noises, moving barriers and fast trains might be frightening for your pony, so it’s a good idea to wait further down the road in a safe place until you can cross. Letting your pony see it from a distance will help to gradually build his confidence, too. 

Yay!

What you say when your friend suggests a super-fun hack!

Zoomies

Galloping through the glorious countryside? Yes please! Allowing your hands forward, lifting yourself out of the saddle and kicking your pony on is a feeling nothing short of exhilarating.