Under saddle training should occur at what frequency?

• A. Daily
• B. 3x/week
• C. 2x/week under saddle
• D. 1x/week

Answer: (C)

The key idea is providing a regular training stimulus while allowing time for recovery so the horse can adapt and stay sound. Under saddle training needs enough repetition to reinforce riding cues, responses to aids, and balance, but not so much that fatigue accumulates or tissue injury risks rise.

Two sessions per week offers that balance: it gives consistent practice to build strength, coordination, and communication between horse and rider, with rest days in between to recover and process what’s learned. Daily riding can lead to overwork, soreness, and diminished performance or mood. Riding only once a week often isn’t enough to maintain progress or build confidence and muscle memory.

Individual factors matter—age, conditioning level, and past training influence how many sessions are ideal—but the standard approach most often aligns with two under-saddle sessions per week.