Interval training - commonly used by human athletes - is repeated sets of exercise interspersed with periods of rest that allow your horse to recover his pre-working pulse rate before you go to the next interval. It strengthens your horse's muscles and respiratory system so he'll have the level of fitness required to compete.

A winning show hunter is highlighted in the hack class, where judges are looking for classic movement in all three gaits, and more.

One of the most common mistakes I see riders make at shows is that they go into the warm-up without a clear plan.

Randy Roy is a senior international judge, course designer and author. He owns and operates Hunters Glen Show Stable in King, ON, with his daughter, Ryan Roy.

If you event, one of the skills you and your horse will have to master as you move up the levels is the ability to jump combinations.

The walk is an often under-utilized gait that lays the groundwork for success in trot, canter and gallop work.

Randy Roy is a senior international judge, course designer and author. He owns and operates Hunters Glen Show Stable in King, ON, with his daughter, Ryan Roy.

In the equestrian world today, there is no greater promoter of the use of cavaletti than Ingrid Klimke. Her passion for the training tool comes honestly.

The time allotted after the buzzer sounds in the jumper ring should be thought of as an important component of your course. These crucial seconds before a horse and rider combination pass through the timers and begin their round should be used strategically, not squandered, believes Jenn Serek.

Just as we need to take time to stretch and warm up before starting a workout, so does your horse. Just as important is the cooldown after your ride.