To enclose or not to enclose – that is the question! | ||
Now that's an arena with a view! A covered arena with open sides means you can enjoy your surroundings.
To enclose or not to enclose – that is the question! Horse riding has always been considered an outdoor sport, and there’s no doubt that enjoying the great outdoors from the saddle on a glorious day is one of life’s great pleasures! Yet as any rider who regularly exercises their horse in an arena can attest, there are times when the weather can be challenging. At best this can detract from the enjoyment of your ride, and at worst it can impact on your training and schooling plans. The solution is easy: Put a roof on the arena! For many, this idea may seem like a distant dream. Visions of splendid, fully enclosed European style arenas attached to picture perfect stables and tack rooms are often followed by thoughts such as “I can’t afford that!” Indeed, the concept of the indoor arena was born in the Northern Hemisphere, where harsh winters and prolonged rain periods necessitated the advent of indoor schools. Whilst our Australian climate is considered milder, scorching hot summers, wild storms and – depending on where you live – bitter winter mornings, mean that the concept of a roof above our heads when we ride our horses is relevant here too, and perhaps more easily achieved than many expect.
Certain sides can be blocked in to protect from the prevailing winds.
A covered rather than fully enclosed arena is an attractive and popular idea for many Australians who are considering options for either their planned or existing arena. Jonny Hornsey, Director of ABC Sheds, shares his top 5 reasons why a fully or partially covered arena is a popular choice: 1) Cost: A true indoor arena is a major investment; in addition to the construction costs, there are factors such as ventilation, air conditioning and lighting to be considered and these will be greater in a fully enclosed structure. “Generally, a covered arena will also be quite low maintenance once it’s installed, whereas an indoor arena will have more maintenance costs associated with its various elements – not dissimilar to a house!” Jonny explains.
A partially covered arena delivers the best of both worlds.
This article was written in conjunction with ABC Sheds.
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© copyright. Equestrian Life. Wednesday, 8 May 2024 https://www.equestrianlife.com.au/articles/To-enclose-or-not-to-enclose-that-is-the-question |
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