Re: RC: Up Hill or Down

[CMKSAGEHIL@aol.com]

In a message dated 1/9/00 11:49:57 AM Pacific Standard Time, Tivers writes:

<< Wasn't talking about metabolic parameters. Obviously, moving uphill is 
more metabolic work than moving downhill. I'm talking about biomechanics and 
eccentric exercise.  >>

That's why I specified metabolic ease of going downhill vs. mechanical ease.  
Also, as I mentioned, horses can be taught to descend in a balanced 
manner--the old concept that it is hard on the horse's front end to go 
downhill is only true if the horse is NOT trained to be balanced going down 
(actually, some do it very naturally, even WITH a rider--tremendous 
difference in aptitude for this) and goes down with a lot of weight on the 
forehand.  As I mentioned, conformation (short back and an easily-engaged 
hindquarter) makes a huge difference in aptitude here...  I've been blessed 
over the years with a particular family line that has the ability to go 
downhill like eels go through water--and it has been interesting to study 
them in the context of what gives them that ability.  (They do it naturally, 
WITH riders, and having ridden them has helped me greatly in teaching less 
endowed horses to do it well, too.)

Heidi


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