Let’s face it, Aussie winters can be chilly, wet, and just plain uninviting. Even in the milder parts of the country, the short days and damp paddocks can sap the motivation to saddle up. But just because you’re not riding doesn’t mean your horse has to stand around doing nothing.
Keeping your horse moving through winter is crucial for their physical and mental health. It keeps joints supple, minds engaged, and winter weight gain in check.
The good news? You don’t need to ride to give them a workout. These fun, simple, and low-effort exercises will keep your horse stimulated, and might even warm you up in the process.
Reconnect with Groundwork
Groundwork is one of the most valuable things you can do with your horse, especially when you’re not riding. Winter is the perfect time to go back to basics and refine the building blocks of trust and communication.
Lead your horse through patterns, circles, zigzags, and figure eights. Ask for halts, back-ups, and transitions between walk and trot in-hand. Incorporate yielding exercises, like moving their hindquarters and shoulders away from pressure.
It’s a low-impact way to keep their body and brain engaged while reinforcing your bond.
In-Hand Exercises
Think of in-hand work as groundwork with a little dressage flair. You’re asking your horse to become more aware of their body and to listen to subtle cues from your hands and body language.
Start with straight lines, then move into backing up in rhythm, asking for lateral movement, or transitions from halt to walk with softness. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s presence. You’re improving communication and getting them to think while gently conditioning muscles.
Plus, it takes up minimal space, perfect for a wet, boggy paddock or a small arena.
Try Simple Pole Work on the Ground
You don’t need to be mounted to enjoy pole work. Lay down a few poles in your paddock or arena and walk your horse over them in-hand. Try patterns like a fan shape, raised poles, or a figure eight course to keep things interesting.
Pole work improves coordination, strengthens the topline, and gets your horse thinking about hoof placement. It’s gentle, controlled, and totally do-able on days when a full ride feels like too much.
Just make sure the ground’s safe and not slippery and clear away manure to keep the space tidy. A quick run-through with your Paddock Blade keeps your pole area clean and safe for action.
Get Creative with Liberty Sessions
Liberty play is a fantastic winter exercise because it encourages your horse to move naturally without a halter or lead, no riding gear required! Choose a quiet, enclosed area and let your horse move freely with you.
Use body language to guide them into walking, trotting, turning, or stopping. Reward their responsiveness with praise, scratches, or treats. Liberty builds incredible trust and encourages your horse to engage with you voluntarily.
It’s a low-pressure way to stay active, and the freedom of movement helps them burn energy and stay fit, even on their own terms.
Build a DIY Obstacle Course
No riding? No problem. Turn your paddock into a fun challenge course using things you already have around. Think cones, tarps, barrels, feed bags, pool noodles, anything safe and creative works.
Lead your horse through, over, or around the objects. It boosts their confidence, keeps them mentally sharp, and gives you something new to try every week. Mix up the course to keep it fresh, and adapt it based on how soggy your ground is.
Just make sure to tidy the area before and after, clear manure regularly with a Paddock Blade to prevent mud, rot, and pests during damp winter days.
Let the Paddock Do the Work
If you’re really not up for any structured activity, don’t worry, there are still ways to stimulate your horse without a formal “session.” Try paddock enrichment.
Rotating turnout spaces helps break boredom and reduces overgrazing. Add enrichment like hay balls, scratching posts, or hanging treat feeders. Horses love novelty, and small changes keep them engaged.
Make sure the paddock stays clean, even in winter. Manure builds up quickly in wet weather, and the last thing you want is a slippery, parasite-prone mess. That’s where Paddock Blade earns its stripes, quickly clearing manure without the effort of a barrow or fork, even on uneven winter ground.
Connect Without the Saddle
Sometimes, the best exercise isn’t about movement at all, it’s about connection. Spend time grooming your horse thoroughly. Use different brushes, check their coat, clean their hooves, and inspect for rain scald or thrush.
You can also incorporate light massage or gentle stretches. Help your horse reach side to side with carrots, or use a rubber curry comb to stimulate circulation. These quiet bonding sessions strengthen your relationship and keep your horse relaxed and comfortable during the slower season.
Winter Doesn’t Have to Be a Break
So, if the cold wind has you reaching for a hot cuppa instead of a bridle, don’t feel guilty. You can still give your horse a fulfilling, active winter without stepping into the saddle.
Groundwork, enrichment, liberty, and low-impact movement keep your horse fit and happy, and keep your partnership thriving. With smart tools like the Paddock Blade to help maintain a clean, safe environment, even the muddiest paddocks can support an engaging, healthy winter routine.
Your horse doesn’t need perfection - just a little attention, activity, and fun!
FAQs
Is it okay to give my horse time off from riding in winter?
Yes, it’s completely fine. Many horses benefit from a lighter workload in winter. Just make sure they stay active through groundwork, paddock movement, or enrichment to prevent stiffness and boredom.
How often should I do groundwork with my horse?
Even two to three short sessions a week can make a big difference. Groundwork is mentally stimulating and keeps your horse responsive, even if they’re not being ridden.
Can I do liberty work with a horse that hasn’t done it before?
Absolutely! Start slow in a safe, enclosed area. Use clear body language and rewards to guide them. Liberty is less about perfection and more about connection.
Is pole work safe in wet winter conditions?
It can be—as long as the ground is firm and not slippery. Always check your footing and clear the area of manure and debris first. Keep sessions short and simple to reduce any risk.
What’s the best way to keep paddocks clean during winter?
Wet weather can make paddock cleaning a pain, but regular manure removal is essential to reduce mud, flies, and worms. Tools like the Paddock Blade are ideal—they handle uneven, damp terrain with ease and save serious time.
Do enrichment toys really help horses in winter?
Yes! Horses are naturally curious, and small additions like hay balls, hanging treats, or new obstacles in the paddock can keep them mentally stimulated, especially when turnout and exercise are limited.
