Since Scottie’s loss of use injury all the way back in 2018, I have wanted to get him back into full work. But now I no longer have any competative goals, he often ends up having quite a bit of time off over the winter. Because quite frankly, who really wants to exercise their horse in the dark in sideways rain? I don’t want to do it. Scottie doesn’t want to do it. And what really is the benefit? So usually a new year starts and I set myself and achievable goal a bit like “I want to ride an intro test”. I usually start off well, but after a few setbacks – either from Scottie having an injury flare up, or my own life getting in the way, our progress quickly falls off a cliff. This year, I want to do things differently. This year I just want us both to enjoy doing something together!
Scottie is turning 18 this year and he is looking pretty great! He’s got good condition, he’s happy and he definitely has more sound days than lame days. But also, he enjoys having a job. I’ve defintiely noticed the past few weeks he’s been a bit bored and wants to be doing more. And I want to do more too! I miss riding regularly and I don’t have the time or money for a second horse I could ride more often. So I definitely want to ride Scottie more often than I have done the past few years.
So, what’s stopping me? I’ll be totally honest – it’s mostly time and motivation! Because of Scottie’s previous injuries, the amount of time he’s had off, I don’t want to sudden jump on and start riding him 3+ times a week. Especially as the time off has led to some muscle loss, causing our saddle to fit differently (currently corrected with some shims from the saddler.) Realistically, if I want to get back to riding multiple times a week, I am going to also have to do some ground work to help support that muscle growth – and I’m happy to do it!
In the past I’ve tried to create a schedule to stick to. ie: Tuesday lunge, Thursday long rein, Saturday hand walk, Sunday ride. But my life currently just doesn’t cope with that strict routine of doing things on set days. I skip a few and then feel like I should just take the whoel week off and start again next week… I spiral!
This year, I want to try something different. I won’t set myself set days. I want to try and do something 2-3 times a week. And for every time I ride, I need to do 2-3 ground works exercises in between. At least until his topline it looking stronger. I think that is a lot more manageable, it takes the pressure off and still allows us to have fun!
Sorry we have been so quiet recently! It’s just been a crazy… 15 months here!
Last Updated on 23/01/2026