Why Your Horse Needs Mental Stimulation as Much as Physical Exercise

Gabi Neurohr, an Austrian horse trainer who specializes in creating empathetic, happy equine partners, believes play is a crucial yet overlooked aspect of our relationship with horses. In her conversation with Curious Equestrian, she shares powerful insights about how incorporating playful elements can transform not just training sessions, but our entire relationship with our horses.

Changing Our Mindset: From "Work" to "Play"

"Don't say work, play with your horse," Gabi explains, referencing an insight she first encountered through the Parelli method. This simple shift in vocabulary creates a profound change in our approach. When we think about "playing" rather than "working," we naturally become more lighthearted, less fixated on perfection, and more present.

The equestrian world is notorious for judgment and criticism, whether at livery yards or on social media, which pushes many riders into a serious, performance-focused mindset. This pressure can kill enjoyment and connection, leaving both horse and human feeling stressed rather than fulfilled.

What Does "Play" Mean with Horses?

Horse play doesn't look like dog play. As Gabi points out, we wouldn't want 600kg of exuberant horse leaping around us like an excited puppy! Instead, horse play is about:

• Creating lighthearted interactions

• Encouraging voluntary engagement

• Establishing clear communication

• Maintaining appropriate boundaries for safety

• Developing mutual understanding

Some of Gabi's favourite games include teaching horses to unroll carpets to find treats, distinguish between colours, play with balls, and even "dress themselves" by helping position their tack. These activities aren't just entertaining, they develop problem-solving abilities, build confidence, and strengthen the communication between horses and humans.

The Benefits Go Beyond Fun

The benefits of incorporating play extend far beyond simple enjoyment:

1. Mental stimulation: In the wild, horses face constant problem-solving challenges, finding safe paths, crossing obstacles, and navigating social dynamics. Domesticated horses in square paddocks with predictable routines lack these mental challenges, leading to boredom and sometimes behavioural issues.

2. Stronger connection: "Connection comes from when the communication works, when the communication flows when we understand each other," Gabi emphasizes. Play creates opportunities for this give-and-take communication, building trust and understanding.

3. Faster learning: When horses enjoy their interactions with us, they learn new skills remarkably quickly. Gabi's horse Maserati "learns with the speed of light" because he finds joy in the learning process itself.

4. Personality development: Play allows horses to express their unique personalities and even their sense of humour. Gabi shares stories of horses inventing their own games or variations on tricks, demonstrating both intelligence and playfulness.

5. Rehabilitation for shut-down horses: For horses that have become withdrawn or mistrustful due to past experiences, playful interactions can help them rediscover their confidence and personality. Gabi's mare Salima transformed from a sceptical, shutdown horse to one who "dares to look at me... talks to me... sometimes dares to throw in a joke."

Starting Small: No Arena Required

Many horse owners face challenges that limit their riding time; bad weather, lack of facilities, or simple time constraints. Gabi's "No Matter the Weather" approach offers 77 games and exercises that can be done in small spaces, from shelters to driveways.

These activities range from simple stretches to complex problem-solving challenges, all designed to engage horses mentally while respecting their personalities and preferences.

---

GIVEAWAY:

Enter below for a chance to win access to Gabi’s ‘No Matter the Weather’ course

---

Respecting the Horse's Dignity

Perhaps most importantly, Gabi emphasizes that play should always respect the horse's dignity and natural inclinations. Unlike some "trick training" approaches that force horses into unnatural behaviours, genuine play builds on the horse's voluntary participation and unique personality.

"For me, the horse should always shine with dignity," Gabi explains. "Bring out the personality of the horse, that is the most important."

Getting Started

Ready to incorporate more play into your relationship with your horse? Gabi offers these starting points:

1. Take the pressure off yourself: Let go of expectations for perfect performance.

2. Match activities to your energy level: On low-energy days, choose simple activities like finding your horse's favourite scratching spot. Save more complex training for days when you have more mental clarity.

3. Create a connection ritual: Gabi starts each session by walking around the arena with her horse, allowing both of them to settle, connect, and assess each other's energy.

4. Follow your horse's interests: Pay attention to what naturally engages your horse, and develop those activities rather than forcing behaviours they find uncomfortable.

5. Start with simple games: Try the carpet roll (hiding treats in a rolled carpet for your horse to find) or colour discrimination (teaching your horse to touch different coloured objects on command).

True magic happens when both horse and human find joy in their time together. As Gabi reminds us, "Why do I have a horse? I want to enjoy my horse time." By approaching our horses with a spirit of playfulness and curiosity, we create partnerships that bring out the best in both species.

Bonus video below for our Inquisitive Herd members 👇