Road Work

[lauradarita]

Just wondered if anyone had any ideas on the benifit of roadwork while fittening a horse. I am using it as an example for one of my assignments but i just cant bulk it out enough. I have said how the small amounts of concussion strenghten muscles, tendons and bones and have also mentioned it add variety.
Any other pro points would be gratefully recieved!

Thanks

 

[Ranyhyn]

Hmm cant really think of any others, as you say adding variety to the fittenning process and also strengthenning legs as much as possible.

 

[eggs]

Maybe you could include the benefit of working on straight lines without too much circle work, especially for an unfit horse.

Maybe also that a poor school suface can be detrimental to the soft tissues of the leg. I think there was a survey done some time ago about injuries commonly caused by various surfaces.

 

[canteron]

Could add that some horses are safer on roads than off road - not only are spooky horses generally less spooky but you can see exactly what you are riding on - ie no rabbit holes, ruts, muddy bogs, etc.

 

[camilla4]

I always find hill work invaluabke in fittening, strengthening and developing top line. In fact, I am a huge believer in doing lots of my schooling out hacking, even if a school is available.

 

[Brontie]

One main point would be bomb proofing etc. But you'll have to bulk that out and put it into correct English

 

[lauradarita]

Thanks for all your ideas they are great!