how to build a stick horse obstacle course

by Afton Borer 7 min read

Here are some ideas:

  • Use long strips dangled from a barn aisle doorway or gate panel to make a “car wash”. ...
  • Tie a piece to the end of your horseman’s stick or lunge whip and use it to desensitize your horse. ...
  • Tie or tape pieces to the arena railing and then see if you can get your horse to walk calmly by or even stand next to it.

Full Answer

How do you make an obstacle course for your horse?

These are great to line obstacles with or even just make a path for your horse to walk through. When the wind hits them just right the flower tops spin. Mix it up and place them in cones, drill a hole to add them to your teeter bridge or even right at the top of your rope gate obstacle.

How to make a stick horse out of fabric?

Include a long neck on the stick horse pattern. Cut out the pattern along the outlines. Fold the fabric in half. Place your pattern on the fabric and cut around it. You will now have 2 identical pieces. Sew the 2 pieces together to make a head for the stick horse. Leave the bottom of the neck open to insert the dowel.

How can I Make my obstacle course more challenging?

Make your obstacle course even more challenging by adding any one of these items you can find at the dollar store. If you and your horses love obstacles, this post is a must read!

Can you make a horse obstacle course at the dollar store?

9 Awesome Dollar Store Horse Obstacle Course Ideas. Make your obstacle course even more challenging by adding any one of these items you can find at the dollar store. If you and your horses love obstacles, this post is a must read!

Why do horses need obstacles?

How to get your horse used to the fabric flapping in the wind?

How to get your horse used to balloons?

What is the best way to desensitize a horse?

Can horses react to things that scare them?

Can you use plastic table covers on horses?

Can horses be scared of flowers?

See 4 more

About this website

How do you build an obstacle course for horses?

0:095:57Simple DIY Horse Obstacle Course - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll right so we start out with just some zigzag poles this is to help steer the horse. And also toMoreAll right so we start out with just some zigzag poles this is to help steer the horse. And also to help the horse control its feet more and then we go to a tire.

How do you make a pool noodle horse obstacle?

0:237:59DIY Arena Obstacles Using Pool Noodles - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd that's what I'm gonna do to combine two pool noodles together to make it longer and then I useMoreAnd that's what I'm gonna do to combine two pool noodles together to make it longer and then I use some liquid nails. Use it adhesive on the dowel and on the ends of the pool noodles.

How do you build a trail course?

1:596:50Easy DIY Trail Obstacles You Can Make Yourself! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSet into a triangle shape you could use cones or buckets for this. But if you walk your horse in onMoreSet into a triangle shape you could use cones or buckets for this. But if you walk your horse in on one side of the triangle.

How do you make a horse seesaw?

0:085:59How To Build a Saw Horse - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThen we have four legs they're 29 and a half inches each we've got a little 15 degree angle cut onMoreThen we have four legs they're 29 and a half inches each we've got a little 15 degree angle cut on them where they're going to contact the floor so they sit nice and flush with the floor.

How do you desensitize a horse?

Desensitize your horse's entire body – over, under, in front, and behind. To do this, rub his whole body with different objects, and allow him to hear all the different sounds they make. Start with an inflatable toy, then graduate to grocery bags, garbage bags, and tarps. Crinkle a paper map; shake your slicker.

What is a horse obstacle course called?

Equine agility or horse agility is a sport similar to dog agility but using horses. Horses are asked to navigate an obstacle course with guidance from a human handler on the ground.

How do you make a horse bridge for training?

How to Build a Teeter Totter Bridge for HorsesUse the bridge above as your starting point.Cut 2 pieces of 4×4 to the width of the bridge.Secure these pieces to the underside of the bridge with enough gap for the OSB to fit between them easily.Cut the wooden post to the width of the bridge.Slide post under bridge.

What sport do you ride a horse?

Equestrian sportsEquestrian sports are sports that use horses as a main part of the sport. This usually takes the form of the rider being on the horse's back, or the horses pulling some sort of horse-drawn vehicle.

What is the best angle for sawhorse legs?

For a good spread on the horse's legs, an angle of about 65 degrees from the square line, or 25 degrees from the board's edge should work nicely; those angles do and should total 90 degrees.

How do you build a wooden bridge for horses?

3:359:05$200 DIY Heavy Duty Bridge - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipEach made up of two two by twelves and they're attached by carriage bolts to carriage bolts on eachMoreEach made up of two two by twelves and they're attached by carriage bolts to carriage bolts on each 4x4 posts to make them upright and make this bridge very sturdy.

How do you make a 2x6 saw horse?

1:4212:49DIY $5 Sawhorse From A Single 2x6 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo i set my table saw to 15 degrees and my miter gauge to 10 degrees. And made a cut on one end ofMoreSo i set my table saw to 15 degrees and my miter gauge to 10 degrees. And made a cut on one end of each of my four legs. Then i set the table saw back to zero.

How do you cut your own trails?

To clear a trail, go from small to big. So start by removing small trees, shrubs, and tree branches; then cut larger trees; and, finally, focus on stumps and boulder. Your design standards will dictate how much clearing is needed to achieve the right width, height and level of difficulty.

How do you make a walking track?

0:152:41How to Make a Natural Walking Path - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRight if you do this yourself you might have to dig out a bit of soil underneath the stepping stonesMoreRight if you do this yourself you might have to dig out a bit of soil underneath the stepping stones to get them to sit level and not rock as you walk on them.

What makes a good trail?

Scenery and viewpoints – Not just at the summit, but along the way. A great trail will have different types of scenery throughout. Lookouts, heavily forested switchbacks, open valleys and meadows, creeks, waterfalls, lots of eye candy. Water – Lakes, streams and creeks are all a big plus.

How do you make a steep slope trail?

17:5627:17Constructing Trail Switchbacks - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce you have the wall partly completed begin digging just as far uphill from the pivot point asMoreOnce you have the wall partly completed begin digging just as far uphill from the pivot point as your footing was downhill tamp the fill as you go the switchback is starting to take shape.

Why do horses need obstacles?

No matter whether you ride english or western, obstacles are a great way to desensitize your horse and encourage him to think through problems. They challenge you and your horse to work your way through new and sometimes difficult situations. On a recent trip to the dollar store, I took some photos of items I think could make great horse obstacles.

How to get your horse used to the fabric flapping in the wind?

Attach or tie to arena or fence posts to get your horse used to the fabric flapping in the wind.

How to get your horse used to balloons?

Tie them to string/rope and use in your car wash (they could pop if impacted, better to stay on the ground unless your horse is used to balloons popping. Purposefully pop them from a distance to get your horse used to loud, sudden sounds. Work your way closer. Add some sand or water and then inflate it.

What is the best way to desensitize a horse?

Beach Ball. Beach balls (pink) are great because they can be used to desensitize your horse to things on the ground if you roll them around. They can also be used to desensitize your horse to things moving quickly towards him/her.

Can horses react to things that scare them?

Keep in mind that horses can react suddenly and dangerously to items that scare them. I recommend all obstacles be introduced from the ground. In addition, you should consider hiring a professional trainer to help you through each exercise to ensure your and your horse’s safety.

Can you use plastic table covers on horses?

These really aren’t safe to be walked on. They tear easily and could get caught on your horses shoe or hoof and cause a wreck. OK, now that that is out of the way, here are some ideas for using plastic table covers.

Can horses be scared of flowers?

Most horses aren’t going to be scared of flowers. I get that, but flowers can sure make an obstacle course prettier. Get a row of them together and ask your horse to step over. Build a horse teeter bridge ( get our free plans here) and decorate the sides with fake flowers.

How to make a horse a step up?

Fill it with dirt and use it as a step-up / over obstacle. Be sure to fill it solid..you don’t want your horse to catch a hoof in the rim. Stand a few of them on end with half-buried underground and use them as a back through or step over. Lay a few down under a thick, sturdy piece of plywood to “elevate” a bridge .

How to use grocery bags on horses?

Grocery Bags As Horse Obstacles. Rub your horse all over its body with the bag. Walk your horse up / near a railing with bags tied to it. Fill bags with sand and drop them around the arena using them like cones to walk your horse around as if they are cones.

How to make a horse car wash?

Here are some ideas: Use long strips dangled from a barn aisle doorway or gate panel to make a “car wash”. The paper rips away easily if caught. Tie a piece to the end of your horseman’s stick or lunge whip and use it to desensitize your horse. Remember to only throw it lightly…it can break.

Can horses accept paper bags?

Paper bags may be easier for some horses to accept than plastic bags. If your horse is really scared of plastic bags, try starting with paper!

Can you school a horse in water?

Depending on where you live and what time of year it is, it can be pretty difficult to find a decent water obstacle to school your horse on. The great news is that with a hose and a little bit of patience, you can create a puddle of your very own to school your horse with.

How big is a stick horse dowel?

Purchase a dowel that is approximately 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) in diameter and 3 feet (1 m) in length. You will use this dowel for the body of the stick horse. ...

How to make a riding toy?

1. Make a pattern for the head. You can create a pattern for the head of the riding toy by drawing the shape of the head freehand on cardboard or poster board. Optionally, enlarge, photocopy and print an illustration you want to use for a pattern. Include a long neck on the stick horse pattern.

What is a wikihow?

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 106,118 times. Learn more... Making a stick horse, or a hobbyhorse, can be a fun project that pays dividends in creative ...

Can you make a stick horse for kids?

You can make a stick horse for your child, other children or the young-at-heart. Making a stick horse may be a good rainy-day activity. You may have several items on hand to make a hobbyhorse.

Is a stick horse safe for kids?

Be sure that all stick horse materials are child-safe, non-toxic and age-appropriate.

How to approach obstacles?

For example, don’t start going the long way down the teeter totter – start with it flat on the ground and ask your horse to step over it until they can do so in a relaxed way.

What is a horse pipe?

A pvc pipe that swings around when the horse pushes on it. In this case, the horse gets a small dragon pursuing them! (This one scared my horse a bit at first!)

What is a log jumble?

A log jumble that can also be recreated using jump poles. A little course made out of poles and cinder blocks where you can push a large ball around with either your horse or the broom in the trash can. A standard gate that you can practice opening and closing. This one was an old mattress covered in trash bags.

Can pool noodles be moved?

Pool noodles attached to jump standards. These can be moved so the distance between the noodles can be changed.

How to make a horse react better?

Let your creativity shine and build your obstacles! You can combine flying objects, things found in nature and household items to create something special. The more your horse is exposed to the better their reaction should be each time.

How to desensitize a horse?

There’s no better way to desensitize your horse than with an obstacle course. It gives you a chance to expose your horse to a wide variety of objects. Some you may find in everyday life, while others only at a show or on the trails. Each exposure will make your horse braver!

What is RAMM horse fencing?

RAMM horse fences are made specifically for the equine industry and provide a strong barrier, with the added safety of flexing upon contact. Our horse fencing systems require very minimal maintenance, have strong break strength, as well as an extremely long lifespan with great visibility.

What can spook a horse?

Flying Objects. Anything that moves in the wind has a chance of spooking your horse. Between the quick movement and flapping sounds, these objects can cause a real freak out. The good news is you can de-spook your horse to a few of them and prevent a nasty accident.

What obstacles can you build with a tarp?

If you need some inspiration, try building these obstacles- a wooden bridge, hanging curtain made from a tarp, sturdy horse-size steps, a tire with a center platform, a tarp tunnel and pool noodles horizontally attached to jump standards.

Is trail riding good for horses?

Trail riding, both short and long distances, can be extremely beneficial to horses. It doesn’t matter if you’re a dressage rider or barrel racer getting out of the arena can be a welcomed change for your horse. The only problem is all the different sights and sounds. Some can prove to be very intimidating!

Can you build your own obstacle course?

These facilities have wooden bridges, logs, large tires, hanging objects and some even have a pond. If you aren’t so fortunate, don’t worry… You can build you own obstacles- some for free and others for a few dollars! You can have your very own course right in your backyard.

What are some good ways to make an obstacle course?

Consider inflatable obstacles . A safe and easy option for creating an obstacle course is to make use of inflatable obstacles. Since these obstacles are inflatable they pose a low risk of injury and can add an appealing and lighthearted feeling to your obstacle course.

What is the best place to build an obstacle course?

Look around for the best space available to you for your obstacle course. Hills might be obstacles themselves and can add difficulty to your course. Flat areas are a great location if you plan on building obstacles yourself that need to be level.

How to place obstacles on a course?

Place them according to plan. Having assembled your obstacles you can begin to place them according to your obstacle course layout plan. Place the obstacles where you planed them and evaluate their position before opening up our course to others.

How to overcome obstacles?

Including teamwork can be a great way to get your participants working together to overcome the obstacle course.

What is a three leg race?

Partners might have to throw and catch a ball a certain number of times. The three-legged race is a good obstacle that requires teamwork (When doing a three-legged race, be sure that the pairs ankles are touching and the rope used is tight around their ankles.

How to test agility?

Running around a series of cones, like a skier slaloming, can be a good test of agility. Try tying small threads with bells attached to them just off the ground. Participants have to step around them without ringing the bells.

Do you need to build an obstacle course for your friends?

Building a simple obstacle course for your friends and family on the other hand will not require such steps.

Why do horses need obstacles?

No matter whether you ride english or western, obstacles are a great way to desensitize your horse and encourage him to think through problems. They challenge you and your horse to work your way through new and sometimes difficult situations. On a recent trip to the dollar store, I took some photos of items I think could make great horse obstacles.

How to get your horse used to the fabric flapping in the wind?

Attach or tie to arena or fence posts to get your horse used to the fabric flapping in the wind.

How to get your horse used to balloons?

Tie them to string/rope and use in your car wash (they could pop if impacted, better to stay on the ground unless your horse is used to balloons popping. Purposefully pop them from a distance to get your horse used to loud, sudden sounds. Work your way closer. Add some sand or water and then inflate it.

What is the best way to desensitize a horse?

Beach Ball. Beach balls (pink) are great because they can be used to desensitize your horse to things on the ground if you roll them around. They can also be used to desensitize your horse to things moving quickly towards him/her.

Can horses react to things that scare them?

Keep in mind that horses can react suddenly and dangerously to items that scare them. I recommend all obstacles be introduced from the ground. In addition, you should consider hiring a professional trainer to help you through each exercise to ensure your and your horse’s safety.

Can you use plastic table covers on horses?

These really aren’t safe to be walked on. They tear easily and could get caught on your horses shoe or hoof and cause a wreck. OK, now that that is out of the way, here are some ideas for using plastic table covers.

Can horses be scared of flowers?

Most horses aren’t going to be scared of flowers. I get that, but flowers can sure make an obstacle course prettier. Get a row of them together and ask your horse to step over. Build a horse teeter bridge ( get our free plans here) and decorate the sides with fake flowers.

image

Pool Noodles

Image
These are my favorite. There are so many different ways they can be used for horse obstacles. At $1 each, they are a great deal. Need some ideas on how to use them? How about building a DIY Pool Noodle Horse Obstacle with the free plans on this postI wrote.
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

American Flags

  • Since this post is being written first week of June, the Dollar Store is already stocking up on flags for fourth of July. These were probably about two feet long and on wooden sticks. Here are some ideas on how you could implement them as obstacles: 1. Attach or tie to arena or fence posts to get your horse used to the fabric flapping in the wind. 2. Make two rows of cones on the ground i…
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

Pool Toys

  • WOW, check out the assortment they had! There are so many different ideas I can think of here depending on which one you got.
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

Pinwheels

  • These are great to line obstacles with or even just make a path for your horse to walk through. When the wind hits them just right the flower tops spin. Mix it up and place them in cones, drill a hole to add them to your teeter bridge or even right at the top of your rope gate obstacle. They are a cheap and easy way to add color and motion to an ex...
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

Latex Balloons

  • There were a few different options for latex balloons at the dollar store. I really think the happy face ones would look awesome in pictures! There are a ton of things you can do with balloons for horse obstacles. Here are some ideas: 1. Tie them to sticks and use like flags/pinwheel examples given above. 2. Tie them to string/rope and use in your car wash (they could pop if impacted, bet…
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

Plastic Table Covers

  • Do you remember these from birthday parties when you were a kid? The cheap, thin plastic table covers. Guess what, the dollar store has them! They come in all kinds of colors and patterns too. There are a variety of different ways you can use them. One thing to note is now NOT to use them. These really aren’t safe to be walked on. They tear easily and could get caught on your horses sh…
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

Foil Cutout Stars

  • The first thing I thought when I saw these is they would be great for a car wash obstacle. They are paper but they shine and reflect light in ways that would make some horses wary. You could also hang them from gates, the arena fence, etc.
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

Silly String

  • How does your horse deal with aerosols? What about brightly colored string launching toward him? Goofy string is fun and at a dollar a can, this can really get the fun started on an obstacle course. If you are hanging out with friends, make it a contest to see who can “decorate” their horse with silly string the most creatively.
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

Flowers

  • Most horses aren’t going to be scared of flowers. I get that, but flowers can sure make an obstacle course prettier. Get a row of them together and ask your horse to step over. Build a horse teeter bridge (get our free plans here) and decorate the sides with fake flowers. Some horses might worry about them at first but this is a great dollar store addition to your obstacle course.
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com

Final Thoughts

  • I hope you are able to take some of these dollar storeDIY horse obstacle ideasand make them your own. It can be fun to challenge yourself and your horse with obstacles. Remember to stay safe and ask for professional help if you need it. If you are looking for more ways to have fun, download the list of 26 groundwork exercises using the form below. Then, go through each exer…
See more on helpfulhorsehints.com