Hand walked is a term used primarily in the context of the equestrian world and refers to the action of leading or walking a horse by hand instead of riding it. It entails physically guiding and controlling the movements of the horse while on the ground, typically by holding onto the reins or a lead rope attached to the horse's halter.
This technique is commonly employed in several situations. For instance, when a horse is injured or recovering from an illness or a strenuous exercise, hand walking helps to facilitate gentle exercise without the stress associated with having a rider on its back. Furthermore, hand walking is often utilized as part of a horse's regular exercise routine, promoting relaxation, trust, and building a strong bond between the horse and its handler. It allows the handler to observe and monitor the horse's behavior, physical condition, and ground manners, establishing a more intimate connection.
Hand walking also serves as a practical method to warm up or cool down a horse before or after riding. Beginning a riding session with hand walking helps the horse to stretch its muscles, loosen its joints, and mentally prepare for the upcoming physical activity. Similarly, hand walking aids in reducing the horse's heart rate and body temperature after riding, aiding in the recovery process.
Overall, hand walking involves leading a horse on foot as an alternative to riding and is employed in various situations, such as rehabilitation, exercise routines, and pre/post-riding activities.
