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Training your horse on a water treadmill is highly recommended. Many veterinarians suggest it as a partial substitute for riding, especially when restarting training after an injury. However, using a water treadmill regularly can be prohibitively expensive. Have you considered that Denmark's wet nature offers ample opportunities for water training with horses? And, are you aware of the optimal water level needed for effective training?
Walking your horse in water is particularly beneficial for its topline and hindquarters, making it an ideal form of rehabilitation for horses recovering from back or loin injuries. Additionally, training on a water treadmill can improve the horse's straightness, balance, and natural back movement. Water training is muscle-building and improves fitness, even if the horse is only walking.
Speaking of water up to the knees, the depth of the water in which the horse walks is crucial. It should neither be too low nor too high for maximal training benefit. Ideally, the water level should be as shown in the image below, reaching a point between the horse's hocks and knees.
Water training at an aqua or wellness center isn't cheap. Fortunately, Denmark's abundance of water offers the same benefits. Here are four alternatives that will make you appreciate our wet climate.
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It's legal to swim with your horse on public beaches from September 1 to May 31. If you're near a beach, make the most of it. Note that some areas around beaches are protected, and riding on vegetated parts of the beachfront is prohibited. Stick to the sand and water, and you'll be fine. Riding on private beaches requires special permission from the owner. We suggest riding into the water and allowing your horse to walk or trot as far as possible on a loose rein. This could be the best alternative to a water treadmill.
The rules for public lakes and rivers are different from those for beaches. According to the Danish Nature Agency, these areas are considered "uncultivated open land" and require permission for riding. This makes sense, as both environments are full of life. Lakes are steep and deep, and rivers can be uneven. Even though horses can swim, accidents can occur if they lose balance and the rider falls off.
We often complain about our riding arenas being too wet. But have you thought about how a wet riding arena can provide a form of free water training? It's not the same as actual water training; we've never seen an arena so wet that water reaches the horse's knees. However, because the horse has to exert more effort to lift its legs through the water and deep sand, it also uses its back more. This can be excellent training, but don't overdo it. Stick to 5-10 minutes of training in deep footing, then perhaps ride on a hard surface. Also, make sure to ride the horse deeply on a loose rein, so it really lowers its head, lifts its back, and maintains balance.
Though not as effective as other methods, don't hesitate to ride through every puddle – especially the deep ones – you can find. Every little bit counts, and it can be a first step towards riding your horse in the sea.
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The same applies to muddy riding trails. Don't avoid them, but be sensible and moderate in your approach. Avoid it entirely if your horse has poor leg health. Considering these options, the beach is probably the best alternative to water treadmill training – if not better!
