Most horseback riders understand the importance of routine training with their animals. While regular drills and exercises are a significant portion of that training, it’s wise to allow your horse trainer to go through agility courses with you and your pet. These courses—which are similar to dog courses in competitions—include obstacles such as hoops and ramps. The following guide outlines why this type of training is effective for you and your horse. 

Why Allow a Horse Trainer to Teach You About Agility Courses

1. Improve Communication

A key to being a successful rider is to have a proper foundation of communication with your horse. Agility courses teach you and your animal to strengthen your bond by learning new commands and actions. You both will learn to trust each other even more as you take on new challenges and accomplish them together. 

2. Build Strength 

Much like doctors recommend working different parts of the body for a complete exercise routine, horse trainers recommend the same for your animal. Agility courses force your pet to use different muscles and skills, helping them strengthen their body and mind as they complete different obstacles and paths. 

3. Participate in Competitions

Most horseback riders only get the opportunity to compete when they do traditional events. When you incorporate agility course training into your regimen, however, you’re exposed to an entirely new world of competitive fun. There are events all over the country for this type of skill set, allowing you to experience new challenges with your animal, as well as form lifelong friendships with other horse lovers.

If you’re interested in adding agility courses to your training routine, talk to the horse trainers at Oceanside Equestrian Center in Oceanside, CA. Serving riders throughout Southern California, they take a comprehensive, hands-on approach when working with all their clients and their animals. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and call (760) 717-1101 to schedule a tour of their facilities.