Historical reenactment is one of the most demanding working environments for a horse.

Cannon fire, gunshots, sound systems, crowds of people, and the dynamic movement of other horses and riders in full armor all occur simultaneously, often without the possibility of being fully replicated during regular training at home. In such conditions, not only technical training matters, but above all the horse’s emotional stability.

Sokół, a five-year-old Polish Coldblood gelding, is an example of a horse who, despite his impressive size and battle role, remains highly sensitive and strongly reactive to external stimuli. His story shows how important conscious support is during moments of the highest emotional load—so that the horse can perform safely and effectively while maintaining readiness, energy, and willingness to work.

The story from the owner’s perspective

Sokół, 5-year-old Polish Coldblood gelding.

Sokół began his journey with historical reenactment at the age of three. Despite his size, he is a horse of exceptional sensitivity with a huge heart for battle.

His ambition for charging manifested in difficulties standing calmly in formation and problems with patience just before reenactments or performances.

Due to the historical equipment we use, it is crucial that the horse is safe for the rider and the people around. Proper training prepared Sokół for his role as a battle horse. He quickly accepted armor, swords, and gunfire. At home, he remained calm during training, but on the battlefield or in city environments surrounded by tourists, he sometimes became nervous, prancing or stepping ahead of the formation.

Unfortunately, not everything that happens during large-scale historical reenactments can be recreated during home training. The massive cannon fire, sound systems, crowds, and groups of fellow riders galloping past in full armor are elements encountered only during actual reenactments.

To support my partner’s emotional balance, I chose Hempqualizer+. About 30 minutes before the start of the battle scenes, Sokół receives a dose of the paste, which he accepts willingly.

The product makes the horse more patient, more focused on his tasks, and more precise in his reactions. The nervous “marching in place” disappeared. Thanks to his increased self-control, I have time to prepare everything properly—and then ride into battle.

When can Hempqualizer be helpful?

Hempqualizer can be a real support in situations where a horse functions well in a familiar training environment but loses emotional balance under increased stress. This applies especially to events that cannot be fully simulated in daily training, such as historical reenactments, shows, competitions, transport, working in crowds, or exposure to sudden and intense sound stimuli.

The product may be helpful for horses showing excessive excitement, impatience, “marching in place,” difficulty waiting for cues, or nervous reactions caused by tension rather than lack of training. The goal is not to calm the horse at the expense of energy, but to help maintain focus, control, and effective responses to the rider’s aids—precisely when environmental pressure is at its highest.