Does your horse feel sluggish, unmotivated, or “lazy” under saddle? It’s easy to assume your horse is just being difficult — but more often, low energy is a sign that something is wrong physically, mentally, or emotionally.

In this episode of The Happy Rider Healthy Horse Podcast, I share my personal journey with my own horse, who went from being labeled a “lazy stallion” to moving with energy, softness, and joy — all by uncovering and addressing the real causes behind his lack of response.

We’ll explore the most common reasons horses can appear lazy, from saddle fit and body imbalances to pain, overpressure, and even learned helplessness. You’ll learn how to investigate what’s going on with your own horse, plus practical steps to help your horse feel better, move better, and enjoy your time together.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The hidden physical and mental causes of low energy in horses
• How to tell if your horse’s “laziness” is actually pain or discomfort
• Why pushing a sluggish horse forward can make things worse
• The role of saddle fit, rider balance, and training style in your horse’s motivation
• How slowing down can actually improve your horse’s movement and topline
• Signs of learned helplessness and how to rebuild your horse’s confidence

Key Points Covered:

• Common causes of low energy in horses: bad fitness, pain, mental overpressure, past training trauma, body asymmetries, poor saddle fit, and rider influence
• Investigation tips: tack checks, body assessments, observing patterns in your horse’s energy, reviewing training loads, and self-checking your riding
• Solutions: conditioning plans, bodywork, tack adjustments, mental resets, and exercises that encourage balance and curiosity

Listener Homework:

1. Spend one ride or groundwork session simply observing your horse’s responses without pushing for more.
2. Check your saddle and bridle for fit and comfort.
3. Try slowing your riding pace to see if your horse moves with more freedom.
4. Give your horse a “curiosity break” to explore without correction.

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Connect with me in my Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/4007067746246133
• Learn more about horse physical checks & bodywork send me an email at dyrlaegesarahthor@gmail.com or send a DM.