Topline/ Muscle

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ForeverBroke_

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Sorry, you're probably all sick of me this week
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But, one last question!

In my last CC a few people said Darcys lacking topline/ muscle etc. Whats the best way to improve this? At the moment his work includes hacking and schooling 6-7 times a week and we're slowly introducing more poles/ small jumps (as I was scared!)

I thought hill work etc, which as there is a fair amount around here I'm going to make it my aim to get him up / down them etc, but at what pace - or does it matter?

He's not working 100% in an outline at the moment as we've been having giraffe issues, but its slowly coming. He works long/ low 80% of the time after he's warmed up also, if this helps. Our schooling consists of lots of 20, 15 and 10m circles, serpentines, demivaults, changes of rein, shallow loops, spiralling in/ spiralling out, leg yielding (its a work in progress though) and various other movements to keep him ticking over etc , but anything else? He can be pretty lazy , but he's slowly beginning to use his back end properly so I'm praying we have a break through soon
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Phew, i think thats it. Thanks in advance!
 
Pole work, a Pessoa and LOTS of hill work (properly - never slopping along!) did it for my mare. Don't forget the other vital ingredients though... time, patience and perseverance!
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Pessoa's are pretty easy once youve read any articles or guides on them- think you can find info on the net! and there are cheaper options
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His outline will develop slowly, so give it time- dont be too focussed on recognising it through neck development, either. The neck should muscle but not bulk, especially at certain points on the base of the neck- this isnt real topline muscle, just muscle built through incorrect carriage. maybe get someone to cast their eye over the schooling you are doing to really make sure he is actually working properly when he is doing his long/low work. low work uphill whilst hacking, as mentioned, is fab! At a steady trot is best for even-ness in muscle build, but a bit of work in walk and on either leg in canter once in a while is good
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