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  Common ailments

  About the horse

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  Common illnesses

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  The most common diseases affecting foals

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  Function of the horse explained

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  Healthy horsekeeping

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  General health

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  Feed and water

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  Deworming and vaccination

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  Horse behaviour

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When you are going for a ride, it's important to choose the right basic equipment, the important safety equipment that will protect you should an accident occur. Equestrian sports sometimes involve risks, but there is a lot we can do to limit the risk of accidents and injuries. Learning to handle and understand the horse is one and choosing the right protective equipment is another. You don't need to have the latest equipment or specially adapted clothing and shoes in order to ride – but it is often easier if you use clothes and shoes that the market has developed specifically for the purpose.

Riding boots or riding shoes? Read more here

Helmets – read more about helmets here

Body protectors – read more about body protectors here

Underwear

We begin closest to the body. Choosing the right underwear can actually contribute to improving the riding session. It is important for women to have a good sports bra, this takes the strain off both the bust and the spine. Briefs and underpants should preferably not have any seams that can rub against you when sitting in the saddle.

Upper body

It is easy to get warm when riding or working in the stables. This is why you should choose to wear some type of functional clothing closest to the body so that moisture is transported away and you do not become cold. The jumper or jacket you wear over this should also have the ability to wick moisture so that you keep warm and dry. It is good to have clothes that are soft and close-fitting as large and loose clothes are not recommended because you become clumsy in these and it is harder for your instructor to see how you are actually sitting. For jackets equipped with hoods, it is good if these can been easily removed as hoods can cause accidents if they become entangled in branches, for example, when you are out on a ride.

Riding breeches and chaps

Riding breeches fit well, reduce the risk of blisters and, depending on the material, can also help you to sit better and have more stability in the saddle. Riding breeches are a little tighter in order to prevent unnecessary creases that could result in blisters. The seams on riding breeches are also placed where they will not cause discomfort. Riding breeches can been made from various materials – cotton, polyester, micropolyamide and elastane are commonly used.

Riding breeches can be full seat, knee-patch or completely unpadded. Full seat breeches generally provide a better grip on the saddle, while many people feel that they get deeper into the saddle with unpadded or knee-patch breeches.

Riding breeches are designed to be worn with riding boots, but they are now also used together with riding shoes and short chaps/gaiters. On the other hand, if you have jodhpurs, these are worn with riding shoes. Jodhpurs are somewhat straighter and a little wider at the bottom, many also have a foot strap that is placed under the foot to prevent the trouser leg riding up when you sit on the horse.

There are also various covers to provide protection and keep you clean, dry and warm. Chaps are a practical and simple to pull on over riding breeches, you can also take them off and put them on when you are sitting on the horse. The majority of chaps are made of suede or napa leather, but there are now some made of waterproof nylon and they work brilliantly in rain and foul weather.

Thermal riding breeches are also available for use in winter. These can either be pulled on over riding breeches or simply over thermal leggings, for example. The benefit of thermal riding breeches over normal salopettes is that they are usually equipped with zips that go the full length of the legs, making it easier to get them on and off, and that they normally have a full seat, giving you a better grip on the saddle.

Gloves

Using gloves when you work with a horse or in the stables is a good way to protect your hands. It is really easy to \\\"burn\\\" your hands on the halter strap if you are leading a horse that is trying to get away. Use gloves that are as smooth as possible. Three-finger gloves are a good choice for winter riding.

Spurs and whips

You may sometimes need further assistance when riding; spurs and whips are available in various sizes and designs to suit both you and the horse. Neither spurs nor whips are intended to be used to punish the horse, rather they are for reinforcing/clarifying your aids. This is something that we should never forget. If you intend to compete, it is important that you check the competition rules to see what you are allowed to use.

Important to bear in mind!

Never leave your protective equipment sitting in the sun, on the parcel shelf in a car, for example, as the sun's rays can affect the material in the equipment.

Riding boots or riding shoes, what you choose depends a bit on your personal taste. Riding boots are available in various models and styles. When you begin riding and maybe don't want to spend too much money on equipment a pair of artificial leather riding boots can be a good idea. This is also true for children who are still growing a lot. Artificial leather riding boots are also more resistant to moisture, while leather riding boots last a long time on the condition that you are diligent in keeping them clean and oiled.

Different models of riding boots

Of course, the model you choose will depend on your taste and what you think is the most comfortable. It can also have an impact on your choice if you compete and are concentrating on a particular discipline. Dressage boots are usually stiffer and straighter, if they have zips they are usually obliquely to the front. Jumping and all-round boots are usually soft and more flexible, they may have laces in the middle of the front and a zip at the back.

When you choose boots, make sure you don't choose a pair that are too short, the leg \\\"settles\\\" after a while and it's not pleasant if the boot feels too short. If a high leg feels uncomfortable at the beginning you can put in a small wedge sole to prevent blisters at the back of the knee.

Riding shoes and gaiters/short chaps

Riding boots provide more support to the leg than riding shoes, but if you prefer to have a pair of riding shoes you can complement these with short chaps/gaiters to get something that appears similar to a pair of boots. The benefit of this combination is that it is usually significantly cheaper and it can be easier to find something that fits both the foot and the leg perfectly.

In winter, when you have slightly more robust and chunky shoes, you may need to change up to larger stirrups to prevent your shoes from getting stuck.

Stable shoes and stable boots

Bear in mind that both riding boots and riding shoes should be used when riding and not when working in the stable as soles, seams and zips are not designed for the wear and tear caused by, for example, manure, urine and wood shavings.
Sturdy shoes with a good sole are beneficial when tending to a horse and stable. Protective shoes with steel toe-caps reduce the risk of a trampling injury. You can even get shoes with soles that protect you should you step on, for example, a nail and soles that protect against urine and chemicals.

You can ensure a really enjoyable riding trip or time in the stables, whatever the weather or season, by taking care in how you dress. Of course, we can't promise that your horse will be in a good mood, but with the right riding clothes at least you won't be freezing or sweaty. We asked our designer Ann-Therese Helgesson for tips on how to dress - whatever the weather.

Spring/summer

✓ Riding breeches reduce the risk of chafing. It's down to personal preference whether you have full or half-seat breeches or whether or not you have silicone padding. Invest in a pair of breeches made of technical material that are dirt-resistant, quick-drying, water-repellent and offer UV protection. If you go riding in a pair of leggings, they need to be comfortable and not have any irritating seams.

✓ T-shirt, piqué polo, light shirt, technical shirt or knitted top? This depends on where and how you are going to be riding. If you're out in the woods where there's a risk of cuts and scrapes from foliage, it may be wise, for example, to choose a long-sleeved top that offers the best protection.

✓ Sadly, summertime often brings rain. If you're just going from the stable to the riding hall, clearly a poncho will do, but if you're off out riding in the woods, the comfortable option is to wear a rain jacket.

✓ Thin summer gloves will both protect your hands and give you a better grip on the reins.

✓ A ventilated lightweight helmet will stop you getting too hot, even in sunny conditions.

✓ A belt bag will allow you to carry your phone even on hot days when you're riding in just a T-shirt and breeches. Practical and good.

✓ Finally, choose a pair of riding boots, jodhpurs or chaps that fit well.

Autumn/winter, indoors

To avoid being cold - or unnecessarily sweaty - the best solution is layering. You can always add or remove a layer during your session. Equestrianism is a physically demanding sport that benefits from the use of technical clothing tailored to the kind of riding you intend to do.

✓  Riding breeches reduce the risk of chafing. It's down to personal preference whether you have full or half-seat breeches or whether or not you have silicone padding. Invest in a winter model in a soft shell material. They are stretchy, with fleece on the reverse and a brushed inside to improve airflow. Wear thermals if you need that little bit of extra warmth.

✓ Many riders come to their lessons wearing a gilet, a microfleece jacket and a coat. Your gilet should have elasticated sides and be thin but still warm where it really makes a difference. A thin gilet also makes it easy for your instructor to see how you are sitting and moving in the saddle.

✓ If you ride a lot and want to improve the circulation in your calves so that they don't go numb and stiff, compression socks are what you need. They also reduce muscle soreness afterwards. But I'd also like to bang the drum for woolly socks. Wool is a fantastic material - all year round.

✓ Invest in a pair of ordinary riding gloves in a flexible synthetic material with a soft mesh upper, or a pair of leather gloves.

✓ You can wear a riding skirt on the way to training and during the warm-up. It will keep your thighs warm, a part of the body that often gets cold.

Autumn/winter, outdoors

✓ A good, durable set of thermals is a must. You should also invest in a fleece or a knitted sweater and a thick jacket. If, for example, you're going at walking pace for an hour, you can easily get cold unless you have a jacket to keep you warm. For full-on interval workouts or gallop sessions, a shell jacket works well even in the cold if you do a good job with your layering.

✓ With overalls, you automatically get warmth all over in one go. But be sure not to overdress! It's never cool to have to get sweaty and sticky.

✓ A buff is great for stopping the cold air getting into your jacket via your neck. You can also wear it over your head under your helmet so that the buff covers your cheeks. You can see your buff as a multi-purpose tool when it's windy.

✓ Thick summer gloves with padding on the top will both protect your hands from the cold and give you a good grip on the reins.

✓ Your feet are particularly vulnerable to the cold. Remember that you should always be able to wriggle your toes, so don't put five pairs of socks on and hope that that will solve the problem. Your toes need space. Instead, go riding wearing lots of layers, woolly socks and a woollen insole. Your thighs, too, are exposed in winter, so invest in a longer riding skirt or coat. Also invest in padded trousers and some Earbags to protect your ears. 

All riding breeches has it’s own combination of fit, material and function. The fit is the most important thing, it should be comfortable. That’s why it’s so important that you try on a number of different breeches so you will find the perfect match for your shape. Because even though all riding breeches are stretchy, the fit varies. A great tip along the way are that you should be able to move freely, bend your knees and squat.

Quality and features

Our riding breeches are made in different material combinations/functional materials so that you can customize your choice according to season and temperature. Remember that you should like the material, that it feels nice on your body. Then find out the different properties of the material combo. If the pants are in four-way stretch, they have an extra good fit and give you maximum freedom of movement. If you choose a functional material, it is usually breathable, but can also be dirt-repellent, quick-drying and UV-proof.

Some models have some special features. Our riding breeches in stretchy soft shell are for example warm lined with fleece on the inside which makes it a popular winter breech. There are also high-tech riding pants with Icefil® that keep you cool and carry moisture away from the body, Core Control Technology ™, which provides extra support to the core muscles (abdomen and back) and Calf Fit System ™ which provides calf and ankle support plus relieves pressure points and friction in the boots.

Functions

Choose features based on what you need in your riding. Silicone / PU are materials that in different ways give good grip depending on the designs they have and where these designs are placed. If the pants are fully cushioned, it can be with Daewoo or silicone / PU. Generally, a full-length trouser gives better grip in the saddle, but most of it is about your own experience and what improves your riding. The half-padded breeches have better grip at the knees while the knee-reinforced has double fabric at the knees and is an option for those who do not want any grip function at all. 

Details

The waist of the riding breeches is usually higher at the back to avoid uncomfortable slips and that it becomes too \\\"choppy\\\" when sitting in the saddle. The seams are strategically positioned so that you do not get scuffs and the leg closures are either in elastic material or have Velcro fasteners, which makes it easy and comfortable to hold the pants in place. Leg length you choose according to what you enjoy with as we also have pants with slightly longer legs. Practical pockets with or without zipper and stylish decor are other details that lift the look.

Riding leggings

Comfortable and flexible variant of riding breeches with elastic waistband and different grips.

Full chaps

More and more riders are realizing how easy it is to become ready for the horseback without having to change clothes. The opportunities for full chaps vary from being a coverall that keeps you clean when mucking and brushing in the stable, dry when riding out in the rain or snow and of course keeping you look good. You don't have to jump off to take them off. Sit comfortably in the saddle and just open the zippers along the legs and the adjustable belt at the waist.

The classic materials are suede and nipple, but today there are also models in warm stretchy neoprene with silicone-cushioned knees for good grip and weather-resistant waterproof nylon that are both easy to carry and bring with you. If you find it difficult to find riding boots that fit, short chaps work well with riding shoes.

Thermo pants

This is the pants that makes it nice to ride out in the cold. Pull them on the riding breeches or over a pair of nice thermo leggings and enjoy the moment with the horse. Our thermo pants are fully cushioned to give the best grip in the saddle. It is lined, waterproof and breathable. The waist is elastic and the seams are taped. The zippers on the legs facilitate when you put them on and off. If you want a lighter version when you’re hanging on the stand or in the stable, try the cover up skirt. Stylish, practical and comfortable warming. Even when sitting on horseback, of course.

Hööks always strives to manufacture premium quality products, and places high demands on quality. It is important to care for the products correctly to maximise their lifespan. Avoid washing textile products more often than necessary, as this can shorten their lifespan and also causes negative environmental impact.

Technical clothing that is water-repellent / breathable

Technical clothing should not be washed more often than necessary. However, it is worth bearing in mind that if technical materials get too dirty, they become less breathable and also less water-repellent. When washing the garments, follow their specific washing instructions carefully. Close Velcro fastenings, zips, buttons, etc. before washing to reduce wear. Do not use fabric conditioner on technical garments, as this reduces the garment's function and harms the environment.

All technical garments gradually lose their water-repellent properties with both normal use and washing. If the water on the surface stops forming drops, you can reactivate the waterproofing by applying low heat to the garment, for instance using an iron or a tumble drier.

If this treatment stops having an effect, we recommend that you restore the waterproofing. Use a waterproofing treatment that is free from fluorocarbons and follow the garment's washing instructions when applying the treatment.

Synthetic material

Most synthetic materials are relatively easy to care for and can be washed in an ordinary washing machine. Avoid washing the garments more often than necessary, to spare both the garment and the environment. Follow the washing instructions carefully and don't use fabric conditioner. Avoid tumble drying the garment if possible, but follow the recommendations in the washing instructions.

Cotton

When washing cotton products, always follow the garment's washing instructions and avoid using fabric conditioner. Not tumble drying your garments prolongs their lifespan and also saves energy.

Wool

Wool fibres are naturally dirt-repellent and antibacterial, and for this reason it's often enough to air your woollen garments to freshen them up. When washing wool, always follow the garment's washing instructions carefully since all woollen garments are not machine-washable. Avoid washing the garment at too high a temperature. If the garment is machine washable, use your washing machine's wool cycle. If woollen items are washed on a cycle that is too hard or vigorous, the wool can get matted and the garment can shrink. Don't use fabric conditioner when washing woollen garments, as it can damage the wool fibres.

Waterproofing

Hööks only uses water-repellent treatments that are free from fluorocarbons (PFCs). This is because PFCs are harmful both to people and the environment. The water-repellent properties gradually wear off with both washing and use. When this happens, we recommend that you restore the waterproofing. Use a waterproofing treatment that is free from fluorocarbons (PFC free), and follow the garment's washing instructions when applying the treatment.

Back on Track products feature modern, scientific textile technology, based on unique combinations of reflective minerals that are melted into the fabric. The natural minerals catch the natural warmth from your body and transform it into long-wave infrared energy, which is then reflected back to your skin, joints and muscles. Humans and animals radiate body heat both at rest and during activity, so the products can be used whenever is most convenient.

The value of the energy reflected and stored by the fabric is known as the emissivity value. The level of emissivity is adapted to each product as well as its application area in order to achieve the best balance and the desired effect. The amount of radiation that a fabric gives off is affected by the minerals chosen and their composition. Back on Track products have excellent breathability. This prevents heat being trapped or insulated – it is the infrared energy that provides the effect.

The natural infrared energy is known to boost blood circulation and promote the production of nitric oxide in blood vessels. Perfect for recovery or to loosen up tense muscles. The effect can be experienced in different ways. Some individuals feel a warm sensation, but the feeling varies. The results of using the product also vary between individuals.

How to use the product

When you start using Back On Track

Our products should be introduced gradually to allow the body to get used to their effect. Use the product for a maximum of 4 hours on the first 2-3 days, then gradually increase the duration by one hour at a time.

After the introduction period

After the introduction period, use the products for a minimum of 8 hours per day, preferably even longer. After a few hours of use, a beneficial effect is achieved on tense muscles and stiff joints. It can take 10-20 days before maximum results are achieved. 

After this, you should use the product in the way you feel is most effective. For instance, you might find it effective to use the product for a longer period and then take a break. Alternatively, you can try using it for a shorter period of a few hours a day during activity, or during the night. 

If you notice the effect subsiding after a period of use, it can help to take a break from using the product. After this neutralisation period, you can reintroduce the product.

Initial reactions to the products

The increased blood flow can cause some people to experience irritation, swelling or soreness in the problem area during the initial period of use. The reaction is individual and varies from person to person. 

Horses and dogs may also experience an initial reaction. Pay attention to your animal's behaviour and reactions when using the products.

The initial reaction or swelling may occur after just an hour or two of use. In the event of discomfort, stop using the product for the rest of the day. Then try introducing the product gradually over the following days. 

Good to know

Humans and animals radiate body heat both at rest and during activity, so the products can be used whenever is most convenient. The effect is greatest during activity when the body temperature rises and the reflection becomes stronger. 

Our products work best in direct contact with the skin, but they also work with a thin layer of fabric underneath.

Only use the product according to the instructions and consult your doctor if symptoms persist. If you are undergoing medical treatment, consult your doctor if you unsure how the product could affect your treatment. 

Do not use when pregnant. 

Caution is recommended when using with ointments, etc., which may enhance the effect. 

About the technologies

Welltex®

Welltex® is Back On Track's first and most renowned technology. Welltex® has the highest emissivity value (reflection of long-wave infrared energy), making it ideal for preparation and recovery.

Iontex®

Iontex® technology has the same basic concept as Welltex® and is developed for products made of lightweight and highly elastic fabrics. The minerals in Iontex® are antibacterial and quick-drying and can increase endurance.

Haematex™

Haematex™ is a high-tech material used for sportswear, containing minerals that reuse the body's natural energy. Products with Haematex™ provide excellent support and a comfortable feeling of compression. Maximum breathability and high moisture control.

Cool on Track™

Cool on Track™ is specially developed to keep dogs cool in all situations. Made of high-tech material that effectively keeps your dog cool by allowing water to evaporate.

TIPS & TRICKS
how to care for your shoes!

THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND...

The Mips system is designed to provide added safety for helmets in many accidents. For certain impacts, the Mips system can reduce harmful rotational motion that might otherwise be transferred to the user’s head.

How does the Mips system work

Should you have an accident and hit your head, the Mips system in your helmet is designed to help reduce the rotational motion of certain impacts that may otherwise be transferred to your head.

Rotational motion is a common cause of concussions and more severe brain injury in oblique hits to the head. The Mips system consists of a low friction layer that is mounted inside the helmet. In a crash, the low friction layer is designed to move slightly inside the helmet to help redirect forces away from the head. This is intended to help reduce the risk of brain injury.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3lcoUoMSfA

The latest addition to our team of sponsored riders is the successful dressage rider Carl Hedin. With almost 300,000 followers on Instagram and an impressive collection of medals, including team gold at the Swedish Championships, he is an influential figure on social media and in the dressage arena.

Carl lives at Särö Stable south of Gothenburg where he has around a dozen horses of different ages in work.

\\\"They range from three-year-olds to Grand Prix horses,\\\" says Carl.

It's no coincidence that the horses Carl rides are often highly successful. He has a genuine interest in horses' behaviour and spends a lot of time learning to understand them in detail. For Carl, good horsemanship, where you develop a positive relationship with your horse, is just as important as conventional ridden training.

\\\"I've always been really interested in ethology, which is the study of animal behaviour. It's something that has influenced my entire career as a dressage rider,\\\" says Carl.

Below are Carl's favourite products from Hööks:

Emma lives with her family on a farm outside Borås where she also keeps her horses. Emma competes for Borås riding club and has done since she started her competition career at the age of seven.

\\\"Ever since I was small, Hööks has been there supporting my career. I joined their team of sponsored riders in 2019,\\\" says Emma.

Elm Rose, who Emma has owned for almost four years, has been a loyal servant to her. He is 12 years old and is the horse that has taken Emma to where she is today. Together they have competed in the Swedish Championships, the European Championships, Grands Prix, Nations Cup competitions and showjumping classes up to 1.45 m. Among other things, she won the Arena Youth Tour 1.45 m class with Elm Rose in Kungsbacka in the spring of 2021 against tough competition.

The cheeky teddy bear on the yard is Nouveau, who is always full of mischief and likes a lot of attention. He is an eleven-year-old gelding and he loves competing in big arenas and being in the spotlight. He has competed at Elmia, Scandinavium, Falsterbo, the Swedish Championships, the Nordic Championships and on Nations Cup teams and at many other major competitions.

\\\"Nouveau has a heart of gold. He's a real fighter who always wants to do his best,\\\" says Emma.

Another horse on the yard is Carolin, who has been with the Johansson family for just over a year. She is ten years old and a very talented showjumper.

\\\"I've competed up to 1.45 m with her and she also qualified for the Gothenburg Horse Show in 2020,\\\" explains Emma.

Then there is Juliebellie, whose stable name is Jullan. She is a mischievous little six-year-old with a positive attitude who is dreaming of life as a competition horse. Despite her young age and her short career so far, she has already competed at both Falsterbo and Elmia. As a five-year-old, she was already jumping up to 1.25 m and now she is moving up to the bigger classes.

Emma's final star is Mecca, a nine-year-old mare. She was bred in Sweden and is new to Emma's team. In only four competitions with Emma, she has jumped clear and been placed in 1.40 m classes.

Robin Ingvarsson lives in Borås and produces and competes horses from his parents-in-law's farm at Tosseryd. He also rides for his uncle Sven Ingvarsson in Kungsbacka.

When Robin was only ten years old, he won the Swedish Pony Showjumping Championships. This was followed by many other titles, including gold medals in the Swedish Championships as a junior, young rider and senior. His most recent gold medal in the championships was in 2016 and this led to him competing on the national team.

Horses that Robin has produced have caught the eye of other well-known riders. He has sold three horses to none other than Peder Fredricson. One of them, Christian K, was the showjumper with the highest winnings in the world in 2019. Another, Hansson, was ranked as the world's best showjumper in 2018.

Although Robin naturally spends most of his time with his horses, he still finds time for other interests, including weight training, padel and golf.

Robin Ingvarsson and Hööks have been working together since 2017.

Below are Robin's favourite products from Hööks:

Viktoria Carlerbäck lives on a farm, Stall Stora Bygd, outside Borås with her horses. She also runs her training business from here and has been working with Hööks for many years.

\\\"I don't know how many years it's been, but I've been to a lot of photo shoots,\\\" says Viktoria.

Her list of achievements includes competing at two European Championships, two World Championships and one Olympic Games. She has also won a leg of the Eventing World Cup and been placed at Badminton, both with Ballys Geronimo. With Volt Af Källstorp she won the Swedish Championships in 2012 and 2014. Zlatan B won the title in 2016 and this year was part of the winning Eventing Nations Cup team.

Below are Viktoria's favourite products from Hööks:

Training tips for riders

Do you feel a little rusty, stiff or just want to feel better? Check out our tips on how to stay in good shape both on and off horseback.

Yoga strengthens your body awareness and is a type of training that all riders, beginners as well as professionals, should work more on. Because when you are really aware of what your body is doing, you can influence your riding in a controlled way. Then you give the signals you actually mean and in this way you make it easier for the horse and increase your team spirit.
Check out Yinyoga and yanyoga, examples of yoga that benefit you as a rider. Focus on the exercises that you need. Yinyoga is a kind of stretching that creates stillness and conscious presence where the positions are usually held for 3-7 minutes. Yanyoga is the opposite of yin yoga, a more dynamic, active type of yoga that builds strength, increases mobility and agility.

If you want better endurance, classic cardio training such as running, swimming and cycling are good options. During cardio training, you should reach a maximum heart rate of 60-70% and keep that heart rate for at least 30 minutes. You know you are at the right heart rate level when it feels a little strenuous to talk during exercise. Alternate with interval training and strength training. There are many good outdoor gyms where you can train your equestrian muscles. Here is an exercise that you can also do at home.

Balance

The balance is of course important for riders. Here's a simple tip on how to quickly put in a balancing act pretty much anywhere, anytime. But preferably every day. For best effect, do the exercise in the stocking or barefoot.
• Rest your right foot against the inside of the calf - place your palms facing each other in front of your chest - stretch your arms (still with your palms facing each other) upwards as far as you can - stay that way or spread your arms to a V - lower and relax your shoulders - raise look at the ceiling (or look straight ahead if it feels better) - stand still and count slowly to 20 (or as far as feels comfortable).Now repeat with left foot towards the inside of the calf etc. If you want to simplify, you can have the heel against the ankle and the toe in the ground. Do you want to complicate, close your eyes.

Hollow

• Hollow position is a full body exercise with a focus on the core muscles (back and abdomen). Lie on the ground / floor with your body outstretched - lift your shoulder blades and legs a little above the floor - keep your arms at your sides or let them rest on your body - your crotch and buttocks should remain against the floor. Hold this bowl-like position for about 15-20 seconds or longer. Relax and repeat as many times as you can.

Breathe

If you feel stressed when you get to the stable or nervous before the competition, try Nadi Shodhana, a breathing exercise that helps you relax and get better focus.
• Use your right thumb and middle finger: start by taking a couple of calm, fairly deep breaths - before exhaling at the second breath, close your right nostril with your thumb and exhale slowly through your left nostril - hold your thumb and then inhale slowly through your left nostril - before exhaling close the left nostril with your middle finger and exhale slowly through the right - then inhale slowly through your right nostril before closing it again and exhale slowly through the left etc.Continue to switch nostrils this way for five to ten minutes. Feel free to repeat several times a day if you have the opportunity.

Agility is a fantastic sport that can be practised at all levels, from fun and recreation to full precision in championship events. You set the level yourself, and having a variety of obstacles at home is a good start. The obstacles should be firmly positioned and the tunnel should be fixed to the ground.
It's best to start out with an instructor so you learn all the important basics, both with regard to acquiring skills and preventing accidents. Always consult an expert before starting the exercises. Happy training!


Sandra Glanzén is an agility instructor at Hundspektra in Borås. She trains and enters agility competitions with her dogs Zorro, a Mittelspitz, and Röja, a Sheltie. Check out Sandra's tips to give you and your dog the best possible start to agility.

• Find a reward that your dog will \\\"do anything for\\\", such as a treat or a toy. Keep the training simple to make sure you're always successful and always have fun.

• Start by teaching your dog to run straight ahead (between two hurdle supports) towards a bowl containing a treat or a favourite toy. Start two metres in front of the hurdle supports and send your dog straight towards the reward, which should be placed two metres behind the supports.

• Gradually increase the distance that your dog is required to run straight ahead. Then place a jump pole at the bottom of the supports. Once your dog is used to the pole, raise it one step. Over time, you can gradually add obstacles one at a time.
The reward should always be positioned after the last obstacle so your dog is constantly projected forwards.
IMPORTANT: Always use low jump heights.

Agility is a fantastic sport that can be practised at all levels, from fun and recreation to full precision in championship events. You set the level yourself, and having a variety of obstacles at home is a good start. The obstacles should be firmly positioned and the tunnel should be fixed to the ground.
It's best to start out with an instructor so you learn all the important basics, both with regard to acquiring skills and preventing accidents. Always consult an expert before starting the exercises. Happy training!


Sandra Glanzén is an agility instructor at Hundspektra in Borås. She trains and enters agility competitions with her dogs Zorro, a Mittelspitz, and Röja, a Sheltie. Check out Sandra's tips to give you and your dog the best possible start to agility.

• Find a reward that your dog will \\\"do anything for\\\", such as a treat or a toy. Keep the training simple to make sure you're always successful and always have fun.

• Start by teaching your dog to run straight ahead (between two hurdle supports) towards a bowl containing a treat or a favourite toy. Start two metres in front of the hurdle supports and send your dog straight towards the reward, which should be placed two metres behind the supports.

• Gradually increase the distance that your dog is required to run straight ahead. Then place a jump pole at the bottom of the supports. Once your dog is used to the pole, raise it one step. Over time, you can gradually add obstacles one at a time.
The reward should always be positioned after the last obstacle so your dog is constantly projected forwards.
IMPORTANT: Always use low jump heights.