Getting back onboard

 
If you are planning to bring your horse back into work after time off during lockdown it pays to be prepared and to take things slowly not just for safetys sake but for your horses health and athletic longevity too.
More haste less speed
You will undoubtedly be excited about getting back on board during these long balmy summer days but remember that your horse has been happily chilling in the field with his friends. He may not share your enthusiasm and his grass belly and lack of muscle tone will mean that hes not in the best shape for instant work either!
Lack of muscle and extra weight mean extra pressure on joints tendons ligaments respiratory and cardiovascular systems so its crucial to take things slowly and build fitness gradually over six to eight weeks.
New shoes
If you turned your horse away without shoes you will need to check the state of his feet and organise a visit from your farrier. Depending on the quality of your horses hooves and the ground on which you are planning to ride you will probably need at least a pair of front shoes. Every horse is different so its best to have a chat with your farrier to devise the most suitable plan.
Saddle fit
Struggling to do up that girth? Rather like the waistlines of some of us during lockdown your horses middle may have expanded by a centimetre or two! Reduced muscle tone and increased fat may also mean that your saddle doesnt fit as well as it should. Unfortunately lockdown means you may not be able to organise a visit from a saddler but you can watch a helpful series of short videos from the Society of Master Saddlers here .
Teeth
If your horse has missed a dental checkup during lockdown its a good idea to try and book an appointment with your vet or Equine Dental Technician as soon as you can. This way you will know that your horse is comfortable in his mouth before you start to ramp up the exercise.
Walking in hand
If your horse is safe and sensible to lead walking in hand could be a good first step for both of you. Remember to wear a hat and gloves and use a bridle for control. Walking round the arena several times on each rein or round the field will help to build the first steps of fitness and can be a good way to reestablish your routine and working relationship with your horse.
In the saddle
The British Horse Society recommends a six to eight week fittening plan
Week 1 20 minutes of walk work ideally moving in straight lines on a level surface Week 2 Increase to 3040 minutes walkingWeek 3 Continue walk work up to 1 hour including hill workWeek 4 Introduce short bursts of trot workWeek 5 Introduce short schooling sessions. Easier lateral work can