Tips needed for getting from paddock to show condition

[carlanastar]

Hi,
I have a thoroughbred mare who has a massive hay belly, and in paddock condition. I want to start showing her but, she needs more fat on her bum, neck and rib cage. She is up to date with all worming and I would just like to know some tips to get her in show condition.

 

[miss_c]

She doesn't need fat I'm afraid, she needs muscle. That's something that will come with correct work over time. My mare that I show is ridden 6 days a week so that she is muscly, but not fat.

 

[trendybraincell]

She doesn't need fat I'm afraid, she needs muscle.

Exactly this! There is a real problem in this country with show horses/ponies that are on the larger side, the only way this will be solved if is people realise that a correctly muscled horse is greatly different to a fat horse

I would start with lots of hacking, thats a great way to build up fitness and muscle, also correct schooling (if you have a school) try writing a training program whereby you can slowly build up the amount of work over a period of time...also assess your feeding program, lots of grooming etc.

 

[carlanastar]

Thanks for your input, I'll work on her and see how it goes.

 

[**Vanner**]

lots of hill work to build her bum up and schooling in the correct frame for topline.

Hacking is the best imo so longas it is purposeful not an amble.