Get ready with Harlow

Having a pre-ride routine is sooo useful as it helps you keep a mental checklist of what to do before you get on to ride. There’s nothing worse than getting on and realising you’ve not checked your pony’s tack properly or forgotten to put brushing boots on. Check out my pre-ride routine and see if there’s anything you could add to yours!

Quick feed

First things first, give your pony a handful of chaff or a small portion of hay to help line his tummy before you ride. It needs a good 20-30 minutes to make a difference so it’s best to start with feeding him before you get tacked up, then by the time he’s ready to go, it will have done its job!

Did you know?

Feeding chaff before exercise can help prevent ulcers.

Get your groom on

Giving your pony a groom will remove any dirt he has on his body before putting on his tack – this is important to prevent rubs. Plus, there’s nothing like the pride you feel riding out on a sparkly clean pony! The extra blood flow to his skin when you groom boosts his health, too.

Top tip

Don’t forget to give his mane and tail a brush, too, so they don’t get matted and tangled.

Discover the rest of Harlow’s pre-ride routine in the December issue of PONY – out now!