Competitions require extensive preparation and work, but also a broad knowledge of the sport and its components; even more so when close communication with the horse is required. Below, we show you some aspects to consider for equestrian competitions.
Main Characteristics
Preparing a horse for a competition requires many aspects to consider, but there are three fundamental parts that cannot be overlooked for any reason: the technical, physical, and mental aspects. Below, we detail each of them:
1. Technique
Always keep in mind that equestrian sports, like most sports, especially horse racing, involve significant stress for the competitors, which requires the use of a wide variety of training techniques. These must be specific and personalized for each team (rider-horse). Ensuring safety, protection, and good performance requires theoretical and practical knowledge of each element in this sport.
2. Physical
At Empire Sapphire, we know that most of the work is done during training. The effort is based on the preparation and technical work of each exercise, where the activities that must be performed are always practiced and perfected beforehand to be executed fluently. Physical preparation is where horses truly stay in shape and are ready to compete in every competition.
3. Mental
Our horse will experience two completely different scenarios: the first when we are training, which is a more solitary and quiet space; the second is experienced in competitions, where it will encounter new sounds, objects, people moving from one place to another, a totally different environment and energy. This is why, during physical training, we must also consider mental preparation aspects.
A great tip for these cases is to work on rider-horse communication. It is necessary for our horse to learn to feel the rider's energy state, meaning that when faced with an external stimulus that might cause discomfort, it should feel the rider, perceive what is happening, and know how to react.
Tips
On the road to great competitions, one of the fundamental parts is taking perfect care of your horse, which is why Empire Sapphire brings you some tips:
· Take care of and protect their hooves
They should always be kept clean before and after riding. The best advice for removing silica (riding arena sand) is to do it with water so that it doesn't accumulate inside the hoof and cause future damage to our horse. Don't forget to hydrate and nourish the hooves using specialized hoof oil or balm.
· Use shampoo and conditioner specifically for horses
Due to price differences, people often use products for humans, but this is a mistake. The pH of humans and horses is completely different, and habitual use of an inadequate shampoo or conditioner could cause skin diseases in our horse.
· Avoid exposure to long hours of heat
Leaving your horse in a paddock (enclosed area of the racetrack where animals are prepared before a race) to enjoy the sun is fine, but control must always be maintained and care taken, especially with the sun on very hot days. It is advisable that they not be exposed for more than one hour. Intense sun can cause allergies or heatstroke.
· Quality Materials
When choosing equipment for your horse, it is very important to prioritize quality products, especially when selecting two specific pieces: the bridle and the saddle. Pay paramount attention to the quality of the leather; it should feel soft, flexible, and strong. It is better to invest in a well-made product, with good materials, that lasts and guarantees comfort for our steed. Poor quality leather risks causing allergies, being tiring, or uncomfortable to use.
· Care with food
It is preferable not to train just before or after your horse has finished eating. Digestion plays a fundamental role in the well-being of horses due to their sensitivity; colic could be a very serious problem for them. They should be allowed to rest for at least 40 minutes to 1 hour.
When it comes to the care of a horse and its preparation for a competition, it is also important to put it in the hands of professional teams. At Empire Sapphire, we can support and advise you so that you can succeed in equestrian competitions.
