Before you saddle up and hit the trail, it’s important to make sure both you and your equine partner are ready for the ride. In this video, we go over a preride checklist for horses, mules, and donkeys—covering groundwork, and key exercises that prepare your animal mentally and physically for success. A few simple steps up front can prevent accidents, ensure comfort, and set the tone for a safe, enjoyable ride.

Here are the 9 steps of the preride checklist we cover:
1️⃣ Groundwork
2️⃣ Stand still to mount
3️⃣ Lateral flexion
4️⃣ Rein + leg to move the hindquarters
5️⃣ Rein only to move the hindquarters
6️⃣ Centered riding
7️⃣ Roll the hinds and stop
8️⃣ Roll the hinds and return
9️⃣ Cut the circle