This is especially helpful during breaks. Measuring your horse's heart-rate is a good way to track its fitness. When your horse trains too hard, it won't have enough time to recover between workouts. If you notice that your horse is already exhausted after a third of the training, you should take a break or stop for the day. Don't overdo itįlexibility is very important. Pole training, lunging or floor exercises are good for building muscle. Varying the types of training stimuli you use also leads to much better strength and muscle building long term. Varied workouts are more exciting for both the horse and the trainer. If you have a strenuous workout planned but your horse is having a bad day, adjust the plan accordingly, skip that day or do something else instead. This said, it is always important to remain flexible.

Base your plan on the goals you want to achieve. Create a training planĪ training plan is always good because it gives you an overview and prevents making unnecessary mistakes. This requires plenty of patience on your part. Do not plan strenuous workouts back to back as they can be damaging to your horse.įor horses in poor condition, it can take up to three months to develop good basic muscle strength. Other signs of exhaustion or discomfort may be gnashing teeth, a shaking head, timing errors or loss of motivation. If you notice that your horse is moving clumsily you need to stop. Also, make sure your horse takes plenty of breaks while working out.Īdditionally, be really careful not to overdo it. Start with less strenuous workouts and then slowly increase the duration and intensity of the workout. Here are a few tips for starting training again: Take it slowĭepending on how fit your horse is after winter, it may be sufficient to only do muscle building training every other day. Here are some factors that can influence training: Positive influences We strongly recommend using a trainer as it ensure the safest conditions for your horse. It is best to do this under the professional supervision of a trainer.

It is therefore important to slowly build up your horse's strength after a break in training. Even if you do finish, the consequences won't be worth it and your risk of injury increases dramatically. We all know that if you haven't exercised for months, it's not a good idea to try to run a marathon. Horses need to train the same way we humans do. Keep in mind that it can be very difficult for a horse that has not trained for a while to carry a rider - even if it is only for short distances. After a break, it is important to slowly build up your horse's strength before riding the way you used to. Injuries, weather and health can all influence your horse's training routine. There are many reasons why your horse might take a break from exercising.

Thoroughbreds endurance riding