Top-notch magazine for English riders at all levels!

Of all the horse magazines I've read and subscribed to over the years, "Practical Horseman" is by far the best for English riders (particularly those involved with dressage, show jumping, hunter jumping, and cross-country jumping). They publish consistently high-quality "how to" articles on a variety of riding and training topics, with information for both advanced and beginning riders. These articles are usually accompanied by clear, step-by-step photographs, which are very helpful. In addition, there are articles on horse care, stable management, tack upkeep, rider fitness, current news from the show world, and more. Keep in mind, though, that everything is geared entirely toward English riders, so if you participate in Western disciplines you'll want to look elsewhere.

Another upside of the magazine is its great photography. While not as artistic in nature as "Horse Illustrated" (a beautiful magazine picture-wise, but much more elementary in article content than "Practical Horseman"), there are plenty of really great shots of top horses and riders in training and competition. These serve as good reference photos for the artistically inclined.

My one gripe is the overwhelming quantity of ads. Of course more and more magazines are including more and more advertisements as time goes on, but for some reason it particularly stands out for me with "Pratical Horseman." It often seems like the magazine is 2/3 advertising and 1/3 actual content. However, I won't knock any points off my rating, as this doesn't reflect on the quality of the articles themselves, which are excellent. If you're an English rider, no matter what your level of training and skill, this is an invaluable source of information.

Practically the best

I've been subscribing to PH for at least 10 years now. I try to keep an open mind, but I can really say it's the best English-riding periodical (perhaps riding in general!) magazine. It covers results and big events, top rider "clinics" and articles, showing, stable management ideas, current issues, horse care, and health. It's a must for anyone riding hunters, jumpers, eventing or dressage in or out of the showring. They have a great monthly feauture called "Begining Adult Rider" which is step-by-step riding instruction geared to people taking up riding as adults, so it's not totally geared to serious riders. Anyone who owns or rides should seriously consider an investment into this.

the practical horseman

i love practical horseman although i dont have my own subscription(which may be happening soon)my trainer brings them and gives them to me! i love them theres so many helpful tips about everything and i love it when they critque the 4 riders...ITS THE BEST! i reccomend the magazine all the way!