18yr old getting back to work - advice please?

[K_T]

Hi, I am new to the site and was hoping that I may get some advice on getting my 18yr old TBX mare back to work. Kate has been taking it easy for the past 12 months because I have been ill but now I am better and want to get her (and myself) fit again. I have no facilities at my DIY yard but access to plenty of country roads and moorland. She is slightly overweight atm and I'm not sure how long I should ride for each day. Any advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[dozzie]

I was always told the following...
Begin by walking for 10 mins on road building up to an hour in 2 weeks. Then start trotting and bulid up for 2 weeks, then cantering (not on road obviously) and build up over two weeks.
Dont school on a circle until horse has been trotting for two weeks and build up gradually.
However. I like to err on the side of caution and would do it a bit more slowly.
BHSAI handbook might tell you.

 

[K_T]

Thanks for that

 

[filly190]

Forget schooling because she may well be stiff and the soft going in a menage will only work against her tendons (on unfit horses).

Miles of walking on roads and tracks, just go steady, nice long rein and she will enjoy being out and about.