Why Your Horse Isn’t Working Long & Low (and How to Fix It) 🐴✨

The clocks have gone forward here in the UK, evenings are getting lighter, and many of us are finally out riding more often. You’re excited to ride again - but maybe a little anxious too:

Is my horse strong enough after winter?
Am I doing too much too soon?
Am I pushing them the wrong way?

Take a breath. You’re not alone — these worries show how much you care. The good news? There’s a clear, practical way to set your horse up for strength, balance, and comfort - and enjoy every ride along the way.

1. Posture Comes Before Muscle

A horse can’t build a strong topline if their spine and core aren’t supported. Think of it like humans: you can’t do sit-ups properly with collapsed posture. Horses need a stable core and flexible spine before riding can create lasting strength.

So have a good look at your horses body, check their posture and the muscle along their back - do they look strong enough right now?

💡 Tip: Even 10 minutes of stable-based core activation work each day can make a huge difference to your horses core strength and posture. You’re not adding stress - you’re giving your horse the foundation to enjoy every ride and move safely.

2. Strength Before Stretch

Trying to force “long & low” before your horse is ready often backfires. Instead of stretching beautifully over their topline, your horse may tip onto the forehand, hollow the back, or tighten in resistance. This is actually quite normal, and often why riders use training aids to achieve 'long and low' posture - but they are not necessary if you train core strength first!

💡 Tip: Focusing on short, foundational exercises off the horse is actually the fastest way to see improvement under saddle.

3. Ridden Time Isn’t Always Strengthening Time

More riding doesn’t always equal more strength. Without supporting core strength and mobility, time in the saddle can reinforce old patterns rather than build new strength. Think of it like doing hours of pilates without correct guidance - flexibility alone won’t prevent injuries or imbalance.

💡 Tip: A mix of ridden work and strategic, short ground based exercises in and out of the arena keeps your horse moving happily, safely, and confidently - and gives you peace of mind that you’re doing the right thing.

What This Means for Your Horse

When you give your horse the right foundation:

✅ They carry themselves more comfortably

✅ Movement becomes lighter, straighter, and more responsive

✅ Long and low posture can become your horses natural default

✅ Ridden work feels easier — transitions, lateral work, and symmetry all improve naturally

You’ll notice their confidence growing, and your confidence as a rider grows too.

Next Steps: Build Strength Safely

If you want a structured, step-by-step approach to help your horse develop a strong back and core, improve symmetry, and move more comfortably, here’s how I can help:

• Core Exercises for Your Horse – Step-by-step videos to safely strengthen their core and support the back. Click Here for details

• In-Hand Exercises Course – Practical groundwork to improve posture, balance, and flexibility on non-ridden days. Click Here for details

• Strength & Straightness Programme – Full rehab/retraining programme for complete body strength and confidence. Click Here for details

🌟 Your horse deserves a strong, happy back — and with the right approach, it’s easier than you think.