July 2025 Issue

The amazing thing about the equestrian community is our common passion – the love we have for our horses and the sacrifices we make for them are hard to explain to non-horsey friends and family. But there’s still plenty to learn about how to do the best for our horses. Now’s the time, because equine welfare has never been more in the spotlight, with social licence uncertain and the public perception of our sport under close scrutiny. There are some positive changes happening – you can find out more about an important welfare change in dressage in this issue – but so much more for us all to do.

One of the hardest things is to ‘unlearn’ outdated ideas or dismissed techniques and open ourselves up to new thinking, but do it we must. A core part of this is the work that has been done in recent years to identify the subtle signs of stress that horses show – many of them behaviours we have all ignored, dismissed or misunderstood. And yet we firmly believe it’s each of our responsibility to improve our knowledge and understanding of how our horses are feeling and why they’re displaying certain behaviours. Only then can we work to make the changes that will improve their quality of life. So, set aside your preconceptions and pick up your copy of July H&R to learn more.

Sometimes, the simplest of exercises are the most effective and 2025 Badminton winner Ros Canter shares one of her flatwork favourites. Using just two poles, this go-to exercise will test your horse’s straightness, while refining your skills to improve your control and communication. It’s a deceptively tricky challenge, but it’s suitable for horses and riders of all levels and disciplines – give it a go and let us know how you get on!

Since watching Tristan Tucker, aka Brett Kidding, at the Horse&Rider Dressage Convention 10 years ago, Staff Writer Nicky has been a huge fan. So, when she got the chance to interview Tristan via a Zoom call, it’s fair to say she was more than a little star struck. Founder of the famous TRT Method, Tristan’s approach teaches people to understand their horses better, rather than control them. He believes that anyone can build a trusting partnership with their horse, as long as they want it badly enough. In this issue, find out in our exclusive interview how Tristan discovered this unique way of working with horses and he gives horses another chance at life, when others gave up.

Whether you’re looking for polework inspiration to get your horse thinking, exercises to improve your own flexibility and performance and management tips for keeping on top of your horse’s weight this summer, this issue is packed full of expert advice to improve your time in and out of the saddle. Plus, stay up to date with industry research, enter competitions and discover the latest product guides!

Don’t forget to claim your FREE* Lincoln fly spray in this issue of Horse&Rider! Find details of how to claim yours on page 130 of your magazine!

All this and so much more in July Horse&Rider – get your copy now!