THE winter months are probably the most common time for horse owners to want to hack their horses on the road. For many this is their only option as their field may be too wet and boggy to ride on and they may not have access to an arena.

Riding on the road has many benefits for horse and rider. For fit competition horses it is a nice way to warm up or cool down after a hard ride. It can allow the horse to switch off and the change of scenery can often do them the world of good.