December is a time for extra merriment and fun, and it's also an opportunity to enhance our riding areas to create attractive, engaging, and stimulating environments for our horses. It's also the perfect season for gift-giving, and some of these ideas might even make perfect presents for your favorite rider.
By incorporating thoughtful decorations, practical obstacles, and appealing elements, you can effectively transform any riding arena or area into a captivating space that promotes learning, mind and body conditioning, concentration, and enjoyment.
Consider adding dressage cones, which are a simple way to expand on or create training exercises regardless of your riding discipline. They can help you guide your horse through patterns, figures, and transitions based on letter locations, allowing you to hone your aids and improve your horse’s suppleness. Dressage letter towers can hold flowers or plants, providing a great opportunity to add seasonal color year-round. When choosing plants, opt for non-toxic varieties or plastic options to ensure horse safety and weather resistance.
Installing attractive and functional obstacles such as ground poles, Rail Razors, cavaletti, Jump Blocks, or fences enhances visual appeal and provides mental and physical stimulation for your horse.
Adding music to the arena by installing speakers can help create a calming atmosphere with relaxing music or natural sounds, benefiting both you and your horse. Alternatively, upbeat music (at a reasonable volume) may inspire your horse’s cadence.
Enhance the natural surroundings by considering planting non-toxic flowers or ornamental grasses around the perimeter of your outdoor ring. These natural elements can add vibrancy and tranquility to your arena space.
Incorporating wall décor, such as equestrian-themed photographs, banners, or flags, can add a personalized touch to the arena. The entrance to your arena is a perfect spot for a customized sign with a welcome message or stable name. These decorative elements create a sense of pride and attachment to the space.
As you create an equine oasis for you and your horse to enjoy, remember to prioritize safety. Allow plenty of space to move around obstacles and be sure to introduce your horse to new elements carefully.