Knowledge Hub: useful articles and resources

There can be lots of reasons why we’re not spending as many hours in the saddle as we’d like – whether it’s lack of time, the weather, facilities or even rider or horse injury. The good news is it’s proven that watching others train can help you improve your own performance – and that’s where the BE Prepared training content filmed and produced by Horse & Country comes in!

Watching those at the top of the equestrian game is not only inspiring, but can actually improve your own performance, whatever your level, and it’s proven by science. In 1961, a psychologist called Albert Bandura conducted an experiment to prove his hypothesis that people learn not only by direct instruction or repetition, but also by observing others. He proved that we can learn new behaviours and skills simply by watching someone else perform them – a theory that has become foundational to modern sports psychology.

The participant should not move onto the next stage in the recovery pathway if any symptoms are still in effect or become evident during the activity or the following day. If symptoms are experienced either during the activity or the following day after introducing a new activity, return to the stage where symptoms were not triggered and only move to the next stage when you are able to do so without experiencing any symptoms.

The following signs and symptoms of a concussion are a broad guideline and each person’s presentation may differ to some degree. Remember that signs/symptoms may take hours or sometimes days to appear.

The following guidance is intended to provide information on how to recognise concussion, and how concussion should be managed, from the time of injury through to a safe return to equestrian activity. While this document contains general medical information, it doesn’t constitute medical advice and should not be relied on as such. This guidance is not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified medical practitioner or healthcare provider.

Measure a track or circuit in the paddock with CrossCountry App and cones. Ideally the length will be your speed in meters per minute e.g. 450 meters.

Minute markers are a great tool for event riders to ride to time at a smooth, safe pace on cross country. They help riders pace themselves and know if they are up or down on the clock at each minute on course. They are equally helpful for the rider who goes too fast and needs to slow down or alternatively who is frustrated with picking up time penalties at every competition! We've put together our top tips for how to use minute markers.

Changes in routine are inevitable when travelling to training sessions and competitions and the resultant stresses can take their toll on the horse’s digestive health with potential subsequent loss of performance. The aim is to ensure that disruption is kept to a minimum, even for the seasoned campaigner who seems to take competing in his stride.