Use kerbs, logs and raised banks
You don’t have to hack for hours for it to be an effective workout.
“The key is to have a plan,” says Sam. “When time is short, don’t let your horse slop along on a long rein. Instead get him working to make it a really worthwhile and enjoyable session for both of you. Hacking puts miles and experience on your horse and will develop his confidence too.”
Thirty minutes is all you need for an effective hack.
“I walk for 10 minutes — five at the beginning and five at the end — and do 20 minutes of work in the middle,” explains Sam. “To make the hack interesting, and also help to develop my horse at the same time, I look out for anything I can safely walk over. This includes logs, piles of twigs and raised grass banks. If I’m on the road and it’s safe to do so, I’ll go up and down the kerb and on and off the grass verges. I will school on a hack too, riding big circles and transitions, especially on the grass if it’s not too boggy.”
Trot work on hacks is great for raising the heart rate and burning calories.
“I like to trot for a few minutes before taking a walk break and then trotting again — even doing this on the roads if it’s quiet,” adds Sam.
Be sure to maintain a good rein connection throughout and focus on keeping your horse’s trot swinging along, using a few half-halts to stay balanced and rhythmical.
“The only time I wouldn’t hack is when it’s icy as it’s too dangerous. Of course, you need to work with your horse’s temperament too. Some, for instance, just hate the wind so on particularly windy days choose something else to do instead of hacking.”