riding 150 km - tips please

[Twilight]

Am I mad! I have just recently signed up to do a Priince's trust challenge and ride 150 km across the Andes. We are going in Feb so I need to get fit. Now I do try and ride most days but witht he limited light I just can't spend much time in the saddle as I work 8.30 'til 5. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how I can get myself fit. Any tips on good comfortable, warm waterproof jodhs, chaps or over trousers. We are going to be spending 6-8 hr a day in the saddle for 6 days. I did 4.5 at the weekend and have only just recovered, oh dear...

 

[Haniki]

When Jane Holderness Roddam was working as a nurse and training for the Olympics she used to skip.

 

[Twilight]

I will have to see if I can find anywhere with enough room so I don't cause chaos. Yard might be a bit wet and windy at mo for that game. Thanks

 

[PeterNatt]

As regards riding in heavy rain I use traditional Kagool tops and over-trousers. As regards getting fit for long distance rides I keep fit by going out for long hacks at the weekends.

 

[yellowpony]

I spent 11 days riding 300 km across the mountains of New Zealand's South Island, camping at night etc. everything we took with us was on us or the pack horses. I recommend decent (and broken in) lightweight waterproof walking boots, several thin fleece layers - they dry out quickly, a lightweight waterproof jacket and a hat with a brim. If you have to provide your own sleeping bag get the warmest lightweight one - when you're knackered you feel the cold. I wasn't nearly as fit as I should have been, but I survived. Make sure everything you wear is comfortable to ride in for long periods before you go - you don't want to find out something rubs 3 hours into your trek...and have fun - it sounds great! For general strength and fitness, what about swimming? (Avoids horrid outdoor winter weather!)

 

[Weezy]

Mark Todd chaps - brilliant! Comfy broken in boots are essential as are kagools that can be packed away and whipped out when needed.

 

[Bess]

Take a seat saver with you or check to see if they provide them for you.

 

[foraday]

Get one of those joyride thingys so you can watch TV and ride a horse in the lounge!

 

[metalmare]

Get your horses tack checked over shortly before you go; he might also have changed shape slightly if he is fitter. Also, you might find some rope reins easier to use like these:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Sport-Endurance-Re...1QQcmdZViewItem