Jumping Horses

Saddle Up Right for a Great Ride

2010-04-06T15:52:00.000+02:00

For any horse rider whether he is in to show jumping, professional horse riding or racing or simply for the love of the ride, the saddle and the numnah or the saddle pad are most important to ensure the comfort of the horse. You have to have a firm saddle with numnahs or saddlepads that fits well. In this field, British made numnahs are available in a wide range so as to meet the demands of the most discerning rider.

The saddlepads that are available must fit well in order that the best protection is provided to the horse. The better numnahs are made of pure British wool pile in 5 oz quilt with a rolled edge and deep wool pile. These are both smart and durable. The British made numnahs are available in different styles, color and sizes. The various styles refer to Dressage or DR, GP and WH or Working Hunter. The sizes are spread over from small to medium and large to extra large. Some of the numnahs are designed to be ideal for either horses that are to be ridden over a long period or those that have sensitive backs.

The latest products available are the gullet free numnahs. These British made Numnahs are made from specially selected and very dense British wool of superior quality. These have top quality firm quilt using a combination of excellent materials that guarantee the best performance from the horse because of the comfort that it enjoys. This range is currently available in the form of high wither half numnahs with collars, half wool pads that are very popular with dressage riders due to the generous length of the flap and half wool pads with collars at the front and back that's bound to be great for all kinds of riders that include GP, DR and show jumping.

Variations in the saddlepads include those in self-colored wool and those that use lightweight wool. Yet, some others have different colors for the wool and the quilt for additional appeal and those that have the pressure points softened by wool lining to provide greater comfort to the horse.

About the Author

The article is an effort of the webmaster at www.nuumed.com. We specialize in manufacturing British made Numnahs, side saddle, seatsavers, corrective pads, dressage, saddlepads, half numnahs and horse accessories meeting to a wide range of specifications.

How to train a horse to do tricks - 3 Basic Tricks

2010-04-06T15:46:00.002+02:00

Training a horse is an art, a beautiful one. But it's often done successfully with love, patience and being able to understand horses as they really are. How to train a horse to do tricks, even the really basic ones, can be achieved if you have the consistency, flexibility and determination.

The first basic trick is to jump. Jumping can be done by a horse whether you ride on him or not. To do this, you must first prepare a pole. It need not be the one for competition, even a long slim log on two stands will do. It should be low as you are training the horse. Afterwards you command the horse to run slowly towards the direction of the log. Run with him and jump over the log. At first he might stop but if you do it repeatedly and give the cue jump when you jump, eventually the horse will follow as his instincts and observations will tell him he has to go over the obstacle. Give him a treat every time he succeeds.

Now how to train a horse to do tricks such as kiss is quite simple. Just let him smell a treat and draw it away from him and towards you. When he tries to reach for it with his mouth give him the cue and kiss him, then feed him the treat. Again, do it repeatedly until he gets used to it. Remember to kiss him with love.

And how to train a horse to do tricks that are quite as complex as the dance, will take some time, with some, even years to fulfill. You have to combine training a horse to jump on his right and left legs alternately, as if a marching dance and also shaking its hips. Do this as like training with the other tricks and use treats and a whip for control. Train with the hips first then with the legs

About the Author

For More horse training tips .Please visit http://www.horsetrainingguide.org

Rider and Horse - Trust Skill and Endurance

2010-04-06T15:44:00.002+02:00

Equestrian sports are one of the oldest categories of the Olympic Games. One of the first events introduced was the four horse chariot race. The equestrian events are comprised of three categories - dressage, show jumping and the three-day event. This is sometimes referred to as the "equestrian triathlon" as well. The three-day event includes dressage and jumping as well as cross country riding over testing jumps.

For each category competition is in teams and as individuals. The aim is to complete all events with the lowest penalty points and there are a lot of trust, endurance and skill aspects involved in competition. The following is a brief description of the three day event or equestrian triathlon.

Dressage

Dressage is often also referred to as the 'horse ballet'. This is where the horse is trained to respond to its rider and to show the horse's natural gymnastic abilities. The dressage category is the first test in the competition and will consist of a set of required sequence and movements by horse and rider. Judging is based on accuracy, balance, rhythm and obedience of the horse to the rider.

Show jumping

This is perhaps the most commonly known of the equestrian events. The competitions themselves will vary in style but generally the horse and rider must follow a specified route around the arena and jump specific obstacles in sequence. The objective and judging relate to the horse and rider being able to jump the set course without upsetting any of the obstacles and sometimes also in a specified time frame. The rails of the obstacles are not solid and if contact is made by the horse the rails will fall.

Often winning in show jumping falls more to a fit horse rather than a horse that can jump the highest as stamina is required. There are some events where the fences will grow higher each round. There are also cases where there is a time race where all horse and rider combinations that did not knock down any rails will be required to race around a set course.

Cross Country

This event is very popular with spectators as well as for the competitors themselves. The event is a test of the endurance of horse and rider as well as their teamwork. They will be required to make their way through a long and varied course of obstacles. In cross country the obstacles are fixed and may replicate items found in nature such as ditches or logs and there are man made obstacles as well. The trust of the horse to follow the lead of the rider in these events is the most important aspect of being able to compete in the cross country event.

For equestrian events the horses are required to pass a veterinary check. The horses will almost always be braided and beautifully presented and the riders will dress in formal riding outfits. The equestrian sports world is a place full of diverse cultures and backgrounds and all of those involved of course have a love for the horses themselves. There is an ultimate recognition of team work between the horse and rider that must work together for many hours to obtain the necessary skills and to be able to compete in the events themselves.

A great deal of endurance and strength is required as well as being able to bring in grace and delicacy and therefore requiring such a mixed facet of abilities in the horses as well as in the riders themselves. Being able to take part or even just be a spectator in equestrian events is a great opportunity and if you have not been to any equestrian sports events previously perhaps it is time to see what all the fuss is about. You may just be surprised at how incredible a sport it really is.

About the Author

Michiel Van Kets writes articles for Abso-bloody-Lutely, a general web directory. The publications cover topics like sports and equestrian.

Some Horse Training Methods for the Beginning Jumper

2010-03-04T18:26:00.000+02:00

Here are some basic horse training methods for the beginning jumper:

1.Start slow. Build your horse's confidence gradually. Most young horses are not afraid, but may be uncertain about what exactly it is you want them to do. Warm up with flatwork first, and make sure he is responsive to your commands on the flat before attempting any jumping training.

2.Try low. Start with low jumps that the horse can take at any speed, or even from a halt. Refusal should not be an option. Do not let him turn away or you will set a bad precedent. Instead let him hop over even if he is at a standstill.

3.Go with the flow. Most green horses take jumps in weird and awkward positions. Just go along with it, hang onto his mane if you have to. Just stay on and try not to jerk on the reins while going over. This may be a difficult horse training methods to follow, but it's a good tip nonetheless.

4.Trotting is the way to go. Taking jumps at a trot helps your horse to learn how to jump correctly. It also encourages him to approach the obstacles in a calm and collected manner.

5.Start with what you know. If your horse is able to take jumps at a canter for the first time today, go back to taking the jumps at a trot tomorrow before trying the canter again. It's best to build on the skills one step at a time.

6.Oh no. Loss of confidence during a training session simply requires you to lower the jump, and to let your horse try again. Go as low as you need to in order to get his confidence back. Or try again with a fence he is familiar with.

7.A little help. Try to get someone to help you set up or take down the fences. Taking too long between jumps, especially if your horse is having problems, will just give him too much time to brood about whatever it is he didn't like about it in the first place.

About the Author

For More Free Horse Training Tips Please Visit http://www.horsetrainingguide.org

Grand National - The Gallops From End To End the Eyes of Spectacular

2010-03-04T18:24:00.000+02:00

The Grand National I certainly one of the best sports related to the strong horses and they take part in the racing. You can also call it a steeple race. People find it to be a very interesting game and are quite mad after this game. They just love to watch it and some are just mad and they some how wants to participate in it. It is a horse race hunt show and it is organized in the heart of the country which is Aintree. It is certainly a very popular national hunt show.

History of Grand National:
The record recommends that the first running was started in the year 1836 and in this The Duke was the champ and this horse accomplished again in the year 1838. In between the year 1838 and 1839, there were three major running events that were the centre of attraction. It is one play where horses and riders have to struggle with the drop fences. There are fences having the slopping side which are like the triangular slops.

Events:
This is completely dependent on the horses which are used as a weapon to play the race and entertain the viewer. This is sponsored by the several sponsors at a time like that of John Smith Brewery. It reveals that it is still a masterpiece experience for the viewers who are giving their three to four day in this game. It is basically based on the jumping done by the horses on their way. It consists of two types of jumping. One is the Chair Jump and the second one is the Water Jump. While jumping, so many hurdles are created artificially or naturally like that of chasing the horses through the tarnished fences. There is use of sixteen fences positioned on the triangular shape surfaces. It shows brutalism against the animals which slightly mend out due to the outer anti- brutalism forces. It got the position to live broadcast on the famous UK Television channel only due to its viewers demand.

Records:
There are so many records which can be mentioned on the basis of the individual horses and rider's efforts. The most successful horse is the Red Rum which won the continuous race in the year of 1973, 1974 and1977.The Leading Jockey wins five races. Mr. Frisk having the records of 8minutes and 47.8second are one of the fastest runners. Peter Simple is one of the Oldest Winning Horse and Alcibiade, Regal, Austerlitz, Empress and Lutteur are the Youngest Winning Horses. The youngest winning Jockey is Bruce Hobbs having the age of seventeen years and the Oldest one was Dick Saunders of 48 years of age.

Conclusion:
So, Do watch these horses, they are a must watch as they run so fast that you will be terrified to see it.

About the Author

For everything related to the this years Grand National, visit our website where we have done the homework so you do not have to. Our website gives you unrivaled coverage of the Grand National horse race.

Guide To Training Horses - A Few Tips And Suggestions To Keep In Mind

2010-03-04T18:18:00.000+02:00

Training horses is one exciting and enjoyable way to teach your ponies and make them good buddies in your horse riding spree. Of course, you would not want an untamed horse jumping on you during one of your rides.
If you are a horse lover or a horse riding enthusiast and you want to do the horse training yourself, here is a simple guide to training horses and ponies. Of course, a well-trained horse is a great companion and they can become your best buddies at play or at work.

In training your horse, it helps a lot to understand their body language or the sounds they make. Of course, they can only produce these sounds whenever they are happy or in pain or they feel uncomfortable, so you have to familiarize yourself and listen to them. Horses neigh if they feel confident but it can also mean anxiety.By reading his body language, you can however distinguish what your horse is feeling. Horses may sigh as a sign of being deeply relaxed and they may usually begin to snort if he is afraid of something. Indeed, learning their language can facilitate your horse training and will help you understand your horse's feeling as well.

In any guide to training horses, it is important to gain the trust and respect of your horse. If you remain a stranger to him, he will never be confident around you. Do not create an atmosphere that will make your horse fear you, instead make him feel happy when he sees you.

In training your horse, it is wise to start with light touching of the horse to make him comfortable and at ease with you. You can then start training him by leading him to walk when you try to hold the rope and adding some commands that you will use to talk to him and convey what you want him to do. Horses can easily follow when they have a leader that can show them what to do as they usually follow a leader in a herd, and in horse training, you will act as your horse's leader to make him do things. If he does it right, then you have to remember to reward him.

One basic thing that your horse should learn is how to walk beside you. This is usually attained by means of lead training, where you can also teach your horse to stop or turn at your command. As he will eventually learn these simple commands, you can then move on to training him so that he can accept being ridden and that he can follow the commands of the rider. Training him to listen to your signals and commands is a favorable means to train your horse but avoid whipping him just to make him follow you.

It is important too that when your horse has learned one skill, repeat it to him and make sure he gets it before moving to another command or skill. It is also important to let your horse be accustomed to the bit, the saddle and other accessories, as he would be wearing them when someone eventually rides him.

These are just a few of the tips and things that you have to keep in mind in training horses. To be able to get full details of horse training, find a good guide to training horses and make sure also that you have a professional trainer with you if it is your first time doing it.

About the Author

Carolyn Anderson loves outdoor adventures. If you want to learn how to train horses, check out Natural Horsemanship Software Pack. Also check out Horse Training Secrets, to find out the secrets and techniques in horse training.

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Hot-Blooded Plus Cold-Blooded Equals The American Warmblood Sporthorse

2010-02-13T18:50:00.000+02:00

The American Warmblood, like many of the European Warmbloods, is generally thought to be any horse that fits into the warmblood type that is used primarily for jumping or dressage competition. It originated in the United States, and an American Warmblood must have been born in the United States, Canada, or Mexico to be registered in the American Warmblood Registry. It has also been called the Sport Horse, the American Warmblood Sporthorse, or simply Warmblood.

American Warmbloods often excel in dressage, show jumping and eventing, which is what they are being bred for.

The American Warmblood is a result of breeding hot-blooded horses (Thoroughbreds) with cold-blooded horses (drafts) to produce an athletic, well-rounded "warm-blooded" mount. Many American breeders claim that all the various European Warmbloods are highly intermingled and do not represent distinct breeds, but rather various types of Warmbloods. So, rather than splitting up the various types in the United States, the American Warmbloods have been grouped into a single registry. Out of this desire to combine all imports, the American Warmblood Registry has been registering European imports and their American offspring on an equal basis. The combining of all European Warmbloods into one American Warmblood Registry is believed to be a way to save the Warmblood from being ruined by too many splinter groups trying to control small numbers of horses.

The American Warmblood has been influenced by Thoroughbreds for speed, Arabians for stamina and has also added other European Warmbloods to further enhance the American breed. The European Warmbloods also have draft horses in their backgrounds. Horses of nearly all bloodlines are acceptable for registration as long as they are of a sport horse or warmblood type, and are able to meet the appropriate studbook selection or performance criteria. Yet the American Warmblood breeders consider them to be a more distinct breed than the European Warmbloods, even though they are mixed with the Europeans and thus share the same backgrounds. Even though they are still selecting breeding specimens to very high standards, the American Warmblood type is a work in progress at this time. Since the stud books are still open to outcrossing, they are not yet a pure breed.

American Warmbloods come in all shapes, colors and sizes, but average between 16 to 18 hands. They have many of the quality characteristics found in other competition warmblood types in Europe, such as being powerful and balanced with elastic gaits. Its head is similar to the Thoroughbred, as well as having the sloping shoulders with powerful, well-muscles hindquarters, which are much needed in jumping competition. Its short back makes it an excellent horse for all riding events. All colors are accepted, but the solid colors and Bay are the most common.

There are two main gaits of the American Warmblood. The Quality Walk is four even beats in length as well as height. When stepping forward from behind in a generous & athletic way, it creates a swinging momentum throughout the body. The horse should be freely reaching forward through the shoulders down to the hooves showing articulation in all the joints which results in a harmonious and balanced walk with a marching tempo. The Quality Trot is two even beats in length as well as height. When stepping clearly forward from behind with there is an "uphill" profile with suspension off the ground. The head reflects the balanced self-carriage of the horse being nearly vertical.

The American Warmblood is a noble, well mannered and attentive horse with an alert presence. It possesses a willing, yet calm, attitude and is attentive, obedient, tractable, and eager to please to its handler or rider. The energetic way that the horse approaches its work, and the concentration and focus it has, shows an inner drive that indicates a propensity towards performance.

There are two registering bodies for the American Warmblood, neither of which is affiliated with the other.
The American Warmblood Registry (AWR) was established in 1981 and is the one most people consider to be the main registry. The American Warmblood Registry has a goal to develop the American Warmblood Sporthorse to the highest possible standard in North America through careful maintenance of their registries, studbooks, and annual breeding stock approvals. They have chosen a distinct and unique brand to identify these American-bred Warmblood Sporthorses.

There is also the American Warmblood Society (AWS), which is an International, non-profit Performance horse corporation founded in 1983, that is dedicated to the development of Sport horses from grass roots through the Olympic levels. As one of the Associate Members of the World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH), the AWS promotes, represents, nominates, records and registers horses for the Olympic sports and for combined driving.

American Warmbloods are rapidly gaining ground as the horse of choice in the demanding sports of 3 Day Eventing, which includes dressage, cross-country and stadium jumping. The American Warmblood has also proven to be competitive at the world class level in dressage.

About the Author

Crystal Eikanger writes for www.HorseClicks.com, classifieds of Warmblood Horses for sale and other breeds, equine real estate, used saddles and horse tack.

Strategies, Systems, Tips and Advice For National Hunt Handicap Jumps Racing Betting. Part 2.

2010-02-13T18:45:00.000+02:00

Weight in National Hunt

Exactly the same as with flat racing, weight is a crucial factor in determining winners in National Hunt jumps racing.

In handicap jumps racing weight is crucial in tightening up the races and drawing horses together towards the finish and this is supported by the historical racing databases.

Jumping ability is of course also crucial and is every bit as important in hurdling as it is in chasing even though it can be seen that the hurdles are definitely easier obstacles compared with fences.

The 2 other main components of form in National Hunt racing are speed and stamina and there is of course the run in to the finishing line which requires acceleration at the end of what are often long races usually over 2 miles.

National Hunt handicaps
Horse racing over jumps is subject to the same "grading" concepts as are applied to flat racing.

There are 10 classes varying from Class A to Class G with 3 separate grades at Class A and also an additional Class H referring to Hunter Chases.

The main difference between the flat and jumps racing is that in National Hunt, high class horses can compete in handicaps as high as Class A - Grade 2.

Handicap Chases
Handicap Chases are dominated by the 5 handicap positions at the top of the weights, with 3 out of 4 races being won by race horses in these positions.

It is obvious therefore that the top 5 handicap weights are the positions where you should primarily concentrate your search for winners.

The next criterion to examine in making a final selection is our old favourite - starting price.

It can be seen from historical results that compared with flat racing betting, the odds about winners are generally shorter in jumps racing betting than on the flat, often because the fields themselves are so much smaller.

Examining the UK databases of horse racing results we can state that statistically 56% of winners are in the starting price area between 2-1 and 7-1.

So in terms of betting field reduction we are looking for horses in the top 5 weights with starting prices ranging between 2-1 and 7-1.

Obviously this is not sufficient criteria on its own, but it provides a valid starting point for reducing a Handicap Chase field quickly towards reaching a final selection.

Making a selection - Exchange Betting Forecast, Betting Shop or Racecourse Starting Price.

With the advent of Betfair and horse racing exchange betting there is not that much difference between using racecourse prices, betting shop prices or betting exchange prices.

With broadband internet, wireless technology and all the other magical gadgetry now surrounding horse race betting these days the reality is that all these starting prices feed off each other in a complex interactive web and the starting prices offered tend to draw together relatively quickly.

By the time of the off there is not much difference between the different starting prices on the various different horse race betting mediums.

About the Author

For More Betfair Exchange Betting Horse Racing Tips, Profitable Horse Racing Betting Systems and Betfair Trading Strategy. http://www.Betfair-Trade.com

National Hunt Winter Jumps Betfair Horse Racing Betting And Trading Strategy. Part 3

2010-02-13T18:35:00.000+02:00

Jumping Skill

A crucial element universally agreed as essential in selecting a National Hunt horse race winner is a horses jumping skill.

Professionals going to racing meets already have a huge advantage when comparing jumping skill. They attend a new race meet almost every day and know many of the horses and riders in great detail.

But what about beginners who have not got this amount of time and dedication. Where can they go to get the data they need?

Post Race Comments
The excellent racing and betting resource, the RacingPost carries post race comments for all racehorses past races.

Navigate to the Racing Post Bettingsite, select your chosen National Hunt race and the racehorse being investigated.

You will find all the racehorses past races on record linked to RaceForm Interactive.

Now simply press select to view the comments for the racehorse selected, but also take time to view how the other runners performed in this particular horse race.

When analyzing a racehorse's jumping skill, statements will be made mentioning:

. "jumped badly" . "fences hit" . "mistakes at fences"

Essentially, any mention about how the horse jumped during the race means it is likely to be a dubious jumper.
Likewise when a remark states "jumped well" then this is especially notable. If there are no remarks which mention striking fences then this can be considered a positive sign.

Remarks regarding the state of the race course may also be notable when assessing jumping skill.

If the fences are stated as being
. "stiff" . "severe" . "testing"
And if the horse has put in a good run under these conditions it is far more noteworthy than if the same horse had a good run at an easier, forgiving track.

Form Line
Another great indicator of jumping skill is the form line on all race cards directly after the race horse name. Place your mouse pointer over the horses name on RacingPost BettingSite and the form line pops up.

The form line provides crucial information about whether the horse has
. Unseated its rider (UR) . Fallen (F) . Pulled up (PU)
At some point during the race.

When this happens at 2 or more of the latest 6 races it indicates that the horse is having major difficulties with jumps at this specific time and is a poor choice unless dramtically lowered in class.

Handicap Hurdles
Handicap Hurdles are accepted as especially bad races to bet. Finding your winner is particularly difficult.
When examining the UK horse racing databases it appears that the winners are spread out evenly through all the different SP's and weights.

What is going on?
The hurdles in Handicap Hurdles are over 12 inches lower, noticeably easier and more forgiving than the chase fences.

In chases it is by and large recognized that race horses have to have a modicum of natural jumping skill, speed and staying power.

However in hurdles often very ordinary horses can be trained to a sufficient level so that they can stay with the pace and give a perfectly reasonable showing.

When we add handicapping weights into the cocktail, then we end up with a lot of very level races where practically any racehorse is capable of winning the race.

In many racecourse guides, Handicap Hurdles are described as frankly the poorest races for favourite betting and the hardest to profit from National Hunt horse race betting overall.

About the Author

Mike Davies is a Horse Racing Expert, Betfair Trader and Advisor. Free Betfair Racing Market Scalping Demo. Advanced Tips and Betfair Technical Training. Horse Racing Exchange Betting , Horse Racing Systems and Guaranteed Profitable Betfair Trading Tips, Bet Angel Professional Betting Software => http://www.Betfair-Trade.com

Horse Jumps - A Funny Game

2010-01-20T16:04:00.000+02:00

This is the next best thing to horse riding if one is unable to ride the horse physically. These are very comfortable to play for beginners. Moreover, most of games use high-end graphics that gives it a more realistic touch.

Some play funny games like show jumping. It is another horse jumping game for beginners. It creates more excitement as it gets tougher. The higher levels of the game are literally tough to crack and this aids in maintaining the player's interest. An additional choice within the game helps to maintain the user interaction. After the selections, the player is ready to ride his horse. Player takes time to understand and get comfortable with the navigation and control keys. They design the game in a manner such that as soon as the player learns his controls, the game begins to get tougher.

Another crazy game is horse show. This is where there are various obstacles in the path of the play where the user has to dodge over and save the horse. Otherwise, the horse will crash and the game will be over. To increase the excitement, the designers of the game have put a time limit to it that really tests the skills of the player. The best part about the game is that it is free and is available online. It has a small size so is easy to download and play it.

There are some three dimensional horse racing games that really catch the player's interest as it gives the closest approximation to real horse riding. They also give bonus points for different styles of jumping. The player can learn and practice various styles by learning all the controls and using the tricks on time. A player, overtime, develops his own style of riding the horse that is different from other players. However, these games require the installation of shockwave on their computers.

Some games on the internet gain enough popularity. The designers then create the second version of the game that has tougher levels and higher degree of competition. This shows the increasing popularity of the game and the number of players on the internet to play the game.

The most famous horse jumping game is 'Bella Sara'. This game has simulation-jumping contests in the arena. It is available on the internet free. The player can further customize by downloading horses and trading codes.

About the Author

Looking for Funny Games ?, you found us Funny Crazy Games.com offer a large collection of free Funny Game online, Enjoy|

The Olympic Medal Winning Dutch Warmblood Horse

2010-01-20T16:00:00.000+02:00

The Dutch Warmblood is a breed of horse developed as a competitive and recreational horse for the major international equestrian disciplines of dressage, jumping, three-day eventing and driving for which it has gained world-wide recognition. It is also known as the Royal Dutch Sport Horse or simply Dutch Sport Horse.

Most warmblood breeds are continuing to evolve. In fact, they are not breeds in the sense that Thoroughbreds, Arabians, Morgan Horses and Saddlebreds are breeds. Their studbooks are not closed so that other breeds can be introduced into the gene pool to reap the benefits of hybrid vigor and to speed and improve the evolutionary process of attaining the breeding goal of a particular studbook. The Dutch Warmblood is no exception.

Registered warmblood breeding in the Netherlands has been going on for over 100 years. In 1887, King Willem II recognized the first Dutch studbook organization and in doing so he laid the groundwork for regulated Warmblood breeding. During the 19th century several regional and local studbook organizations bred horses specifically for farming.

In the 1950's, the Dutch Warmblood Horse evolved from crossing two man-created Dutch breeds - the Gelderlander and the Groningen, and then refining the horse with the Thoroughbred to improve stamina. The Gelderlander evolved on the light sandy soils of central Holland and is a medium-sized horse with a stylish gait and jumping abilities inherited from its many ancestors; the Gelderlander gave the new breed its excellent forequarters. The Groningen evolved on the heavy clay soils of northern Holland into a larger and heavier, draft style horse that was nearly lost in the mid-20th Century due to a significant number of mares being used to create the Dutch Warmblood which left few purebreds. Both the Gelderlander and the Groningen share Friesian, Oldenburger and Holsteiner in their ancestry along with other related warmbloods, such as the Oldenburg and the Hanoverian used to clarify minor conformation details as well as to emphasize a calm temperament. The breeding program that began in the 1960's gave the world one of the most successful horse breeds ever developed in postwar Europe.

However, there are 3 varieties of Dutch Warmblood Horses. Using the old established bloodlines, the Dutch developed a true riding sport horse or Rijpaard, using Thoroughbred stallions as well as riding-type stallions from France, Holstein, Hanover and elsewhere while taking care to retain the qualities of the old Dutch breeds. Hackney Horses were also introduced to this cross in order to produce a stylish harness horse with a proud, high head carriage and high knee action, known as the Dutch Harness Horse or Tuigpaard with American Saddlebred being added now. Other breeders continue to breed the traditional Gelderlander light draft horse, or Basistype, by crossing with the Groningen to add more mass. As a result, the modern Dutch Warmblood horse is divided into three categories in the KWPN Studbook as sport horse, harness horse and traditional Gelderlander type.

Breeding and selection of the Dutch Warmblood Horse is strictly controlled and monitored by the Koninkijk Warmbloed Paardenstamboek Nederland (KWPN) or Royal Warmblood Horse Studbook of the Netherlands. This registry governs the breeding and the studbook in North America through a branch organization (KWPN-NA) formed in 1983. Keurings, or horse inspections, are held each year in both the Netherlands and in North America and the horses are presented at age three or older. Only after they have proven that they possess the necessary quality and breed standard will they be entered into the Studbook and allowed to be branded as Dutch Warmblood horses. However, branding of horses is illegal according to Dutch law, so today only the oldest Dutch Warmbloods still bear the lion-rampant brand on the left hip. Today's horses are micro-chipped instead.

But the selection process doesn't end with that one inspection. Both genders undergo regular re-evaluations and are given classifications according to their contribution to the breed, including their own achievements and the achievements of their offspring. No registry has produced more successful international show jumping horses than the KWPN. With at least 8 Olympic medalists since 2000; 2 in dressage, 6 in show jumping, the Dutch Warmblood Horse ranked first in jumping by the World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) in 2007.

Physically, the Dutch Warmblood Horse stands 15.2 hands with no upper height limit, although the average is about 16.2 hands with some reaching 17 hands. A horse that is too tall is impractical for sport and therefore not desirable. The head is refined with a straight profile and the neck is long and arched. The withers are fairly prominent and the girth is deep with plenty of heart room. The forelegs are strong and well-muscled and the hindquarters are powerful. The hock joints are low to the ground and these factors combine to give great power to the Dutch Warmblood. The overall impression should be a horse of balanced proportions. They are easy to handle, easy to ride and intelligent, with a willing and hard-working character.

Most Dutch Warmblood Horses are black, brown, bay, chestnut, or grey. White markings on the face and legs are not uncommon. The gene pool also has several tobiano horses from the approved stallion, Samber, although no tobiano stallion has been approved since. The roan pattern turns up occasionally from the approved stallion, El Rosso.

Dutch Warmblood Horses are high achievers, but good conformation is not to be overshadowed by achievements. In a relatively short time the modern Dutch Warmblood has risen to international competitive importance. Dutch Warmbloods have been exported all over the world and are winners under the flags of many nations in international competitions as well as in the Olympic Games.

Dutch Warmblood foals must have a name no longer than 20 characters or spaces that begins with the designated letter for the year of their birth. The designated letter for 2008 is "D" and may be the same name as a previous horse, although the registration number itself will be unique. However, approved stallions must have a unique name and in some cases must be renamed once approved.

However, there is a downside to the breed. Osteochondrosis (OC) is currently the most prevalent developmental disorder in horses where a disturbance occurs in the process of ossification, resulting in the formation of abnormalities in the bone and cartilage during a foal's growth. Currently, OC affects approximately 30% of young horses worldwide, mostly in warmblood breeds. Of the 12,000 foals born each year and registered by the Dutch Warmblood studbook KWPN, an average of 3,000 will develop OC during their first year. A complete genetic study to investigate the differences in genetic background between joints and differences between factors influencing the development of OC is underway and will continue for two more years.

The success of the Dutch Warmblood Horse is no accident. The same characteristics and approaches which have made The Netherlands outstanding in agriculture and commerce have been applied to their goal to breed the best sport horse in the world.

About the Author

Crystal is a writer for www.HorseClicks.com, classifieds of Warmbloods for sale and quality horse trailers such as Sooner, WW, etc.

How to Get Your Horse to Jump Higher and Slower - Gymnastics is the Answer

2010-01-19T18:28:00.000+02:00

If you have ever been around a competitive level jumping event you are very familiar with the amazing height and beautiful positioning of horse and rider over incredibly challenging obstacles and jumps. This is often the image that all equestrians strive for but find very difficult to obtain. Most riders find it challenging enough to simply collect and position themselves and their horse for a successful jump, much less worry about the actual style of the jump itself.

It may surprise you to find out that one of the keys to developing the high, slow jump so beautiful to watch is not specifically in just more jumping practice. It is certainly not to continue to increase the height of the jump in an effort to increase performance either. In reality the best way to help your horse jump higher and slower is to increase their control, balance, flexibility, position and centeredness both going into the jump, impulsion and the landing. With increasing athletic ability and mental focus on the jump your horse can and will become better and better.

Gymnastics is a simple and very low cost addition to your jumping routine that will achieve all the goals listed above. By placing ground poles, short jumps and obstacles specific distances from each other the horse, and rider too, are forced to focus on balance and position to hit the pole or jump correctly aligned. It also allows the horse to gain confidence in his or her foot position and allows them to reposition their weight on the move for a more effective jump.

In most basic terms gymnastics allows the horse to actually shift or rock back on his or her haunches, providing more impulsion and launching the horse higher. This in turn allows the speed to and over the jump to be more controlled, since the horse isn't scrambling to try to make the jump. The centeredness of the rider through gymnastics helps to establish the cues that help the horse in the arena for those beautiful, showy jumps.

Cathy Barrea is an award-winning trainer and the creator of Gymnastics for Horses, an exercise program for horse jumping. Find out more at gymnasticsforhorses.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cathy_Barrea

Building Muscles Through Jumping Exercises Will Help Your Horse Jump Higher - And Become Leaner

2010-01-19T18:25:00.000+02:00

Your horse may have learned all the basics of show jumping including the accuracy grace and form that are required in order to complete the different obstacles that are present in the event. But there is one problem that horse owners often face with their horses. The problem is that of an insufficiently high jump. A higher jump ensures that your horse can pass over the more difficult obstacles with ease. Even though grace and fluidity are more important in the Hunter ring a horse, which has inadequate jump height, will often struggle to garner good scores, not to mention often failing to jump obstacles or knocking them down in the process.

How, therefore, do you make your horse jump higher? The answer is actually simpler than you think. A stronger horse will most certainly be able to jump higher than its weaker counterparts. As a result, muscle building for your horse should most definitely be on your training radar. More importantly, you should also know which muscles to pay attention to and the duration and the intensity of exercises. Each horse is different and the key to a successful training regime and jumping exercises depends upon your in-depth understanding of your horse's behavior. The following are important pointers to keep in mind while helping your horse to build more muscle:

• Target- When a horse jumps, its hind legs do the bulk of the work. Hence you should concentrate on the muscles of the rear quarters, especially the rear thighs and legs. These will need vigorous working when planning your jumping exercises.

• Diet- A proper diet is essential before a muscle building exercise regime can begin. Always ensure your horse has enough Calcium HMB, L-Glutamine, essential vitamins like Vitamin E and Vitamin C and pine bark

• Warm up and cool down sessions are absolutely essential when training your horse to build muscle

• Intensity of the exercise regime must be stepped up gradually and not in a steep curve

• Attention must be paid to any symptoms of muscle stress or damage and proper precaution should be taken in such cases

The exercises which will help your horse gain more muscles include a lot of different workouts. For starters, repeated practice with a cavalletti pole will help your horse by strengthening the back muscles, which are worked upon the most. You can also try working with your horse through steep uphill climbs. These offer a lot more resistance than level ground and help build up muscles. Resistance exercise is also well performed if you have an equine tank through which you can take your horse across multiple times. Another great way to exercise the rear muscles are to make your horse do back steps. However, some horses object to this exercise. Make sure you are gentle and patient when you do this.

A horse with stronger legs and leaner muscles will be much fitter. In addition to the characteristic grace and form, it will also have a high, smooth jump that is sure to wow the judges and the spectators alike.

Cathy Barrea is an award winning trainer and creator of Gymnastics for Horses. Her career spans over 35 years, during which time she has traveled the United States and Canada showing, training and teaching students and horses.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cathy_Barrea