Topline Training

[M.Heath]

I know it's a common question but how can I build my mare's (Irish Sports horse) topline? I've researched about the nutritional side and now I'm trying to find ways of building her muscle in the school and out hacking. I've been trying "long and low" but sturggle to tell if she's really working properly or just taking advantage of a slightly longer rein! I know it's something that won't just happen overnight but any tips or exercises on building a good topline will be greatly appreciated

 

[LeannePip]

You are best off getting yourself a good instructor to help you out.

Topline can only be built with correct work and correct food; not something that can really be taught over t'internet!

Good Luck!

 

[madamebonnie]

Agree with getting an instructor or good pair of eyes on the ground between lessons. I video myself weekly to check progress and gives me something to work on if I can't get out for lessons as frequently as I would like. All you need is a cheap little tripod to prop your phone on. I fix mine to a jump wing so I don't have to get on and off

 

[Llanveynoe'sLast]

Echo the recommendation for a good instructor who will be able to tell you when she's working properly from behind and when she is pootling along avoiding using herself - so much of this is reliant on feel that it is impossible to explain over the internet.

You can always lunge her in a pessoa or use side reins from the girth, between the front legs to the bit. This will encourage her to work long and low and it will be much easier to see from the ground whether or not she is tracking up and using herself. It has the added bonus of letting her develop and strengthen the topline muscles without the weight of a rider to contend with too, which is particularly good if this kind of work is new to her.