Not just small horses, ponies benefit from particular care and attention in certain areas. Merry Smith MRCVS explains what to watch out for

Ride smarter, not harder, this winter with Louise Harwood’s quick and effective schooling plans

Two poles are all you need to nail your collected and extended paces, says dressage trainer and judge Jess Carr. That and a loud voice! Helen Milbank watches four exercises have a powerful effect on stride length, adjustability, and a horse’s rideability

Olympic eventer Vittoria Panizzon demonstrates two jumping exercises to hone your balance and your horse’s technique and rideability

Mental health can shape not just a rider’s performance, but their horse’s wellbeing. Oscar Williams discovers how to recognise the signs – and why it’s sometimes braver not to ride

Portion control Q I have a laminitis-prone pony ...