Is your horse's topline lacking? A good topline both improves a horse's appearance and makes it easier for him to carry himself properly. If you're looking to develop and strengthen your horse’s topline, these exercises can help you do that.

Before You Start

Before you begin working on your horse’s topline, remember that for these exercises to be effective, it is important for your horse to be supple, soft, and balanced. A horse who does not give to the bit or bend in his body will be rigid during these exercises, and if left unchecked the horse can use and develop the muscles that we don’t want him to, leading to improper muscling. If your horse does not yet travel in a soft, supple, and balanced way, then focus on training him to do so before you attempt to build up his topline.

Lunging

Working your horse on the lunge line is a great way to develop your horse’s topline, but only if done properly and slowly. Side reins can help to guide your horse into an appropriate frame, but as when using any sort of training device, you need to take the time to introduce side reins carefully. Remember that the side reins should be a training tool, not something to rely on.

As you work your horse on the lunge, progress slowly. If your horse is not used to traveling in a frame, then doing so will be tiring for him. Start with short sessions only and change directions frequently. As your horse gains strength and his muscles develop, you can progress begin to ask more of your horse.

Cavaletti

Working your horse over cavaletti requires that he be moving forward and carrying his whole body deliberately and carefully. Again, your horse should be in proper form when working over cavaletti. Consider working your horse over cavaletti both on the lunge line and under saddle.

Hill Work

Hills are excellent for developing your horse’s topline. Asking your horse to walk or trot up a hill with his head held long and low will strengthen his back and hindquarters and will work his whole body. Hill work can be strenuous, so always start with a level appropriate for your horse’s condition. For additional hill work ideas, see our blog post, "How to Use Hills to Your Riding Advantage".

Backing

The act of backing up requires your horse to engage his hindquarters and lift his back, both of which can help develop his topline. Start by asking your horse to back up as far as he is willing. Then, with each ride ask him to back up a bit further. You can also back your horse up a hill for added difficulty.

Developing your horse’s topline is something that takes time, and can only be performed on a horse that already understands proper carriage.

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/dvpc/5617213701

Original Source: Tips to Develop Your Horse's Topline