Horse fitness program

[[59668]]

Hi

I need to get my horse fit.

At the moment I ride about 5 times a week, including competing out one day most weekends and hacking out one day.

The other days I have to ride in the school as I can only ride in the evenings.

Could anyone suggest a fitness program that I can follow in the school?

Thanks

 

[spotty_pony]

I would imagine he will be quite fit anyway if you are riding him 5 times a week.

Why don't you lunge him on one of the days instead of schooling him to add some variety? 20-25 minutes should be enough to give him a good work out.

If you can, jump him during one of your schooling sessions - preferably doing gridwork as this will encourage him to become more athletic and improve fitness.

When you have warmed up - depending on the level your horse is at - ask him for some collection as this will really engage him from behind and work all of his muscles. Also, try doing some interval canter work in a forward seat. (e.g 10 mins of canter work with 5 mins on each rein)

Another good exercise is doing some raised trotting poles as this will encourage your horse to use his shoulders and will really elevate the trot. Make sure he is well warmed up first though.

Hope this helps.