Hill work

[dozzie]

1. Which is easiest for a horse, walking or trotting up a hill? I always thought trotting was easier but not sure if Im right and it is imperative that I get it right!!!

2. Which puts most strain on the hamstrings? (walking or trotting)

3.Which puts most strain on the sacroiliac?(walking or trotting)

4.Which puts most strain on the hocks?(walking or trotting)


Not that my horse is a cripple or anything!!

I just cant avoid a steep hill nearby if I want to hack any distance!

Thanks in advance for any guidance

 

[Baggybreeches]

Tbh I dont know, but when faced with a very steep incline, most of our horses tend to jog on, so I would guess this to be easier for them

 

[moneypit1]

I have always been told that walking up a hill is so much harder all round for horses. In fact walking uses many more muscles than jogging and is considered the best way to achieve fitness.

 

[isabella]

walking and cantering up hills is best for fitness so i am guessing that these are harder for the horse apparently trotting up doesn't work the muscles

 

[dozzie]

Thanks! I walked up the hill a week ago and since then she has become tense again and started being silly and spooking which I suspect is pain related so think I messed up! Next time we will trot! Aerobically it will be harder but anaerobically it should be better for her at the moment.

 

[Harlequin_Ro]

slow bouncy trot up the hills are good for building muscle