In a message dated 8/3/2005 12:00:53 P.M. Mountain Daylight Time,
Stagg_Newman@xxxxxxxxxxxx writes:
IMO the same training strategies are NOT appropriate for equine and
humans.
I think the "operative" words in Stagg's post is "training
strategies".
As far as actual "platforms" go, though, I believe the
two (human and equine) are very similar.
I believe, once properly "loaded" for the endeavor, each
will (if tasked at aerobic levels, vice anaerobic levels) consume (as fuel)
first Fat, then Carbohydrate.
The problem I've encountered in the endurance community
is that some endurance riders get so fixated on FAT and FIBER, that the ready
and proper absorption of Carbohydate and its synthesis into Glycogen is
lost.
With proper nutrition and a training regimen properly
formulated and applied, though, the biomechanic responses of the horse can be
taxed, while not compromising the metabolic state.
The Glycogen stores (in muscles and the liver) can
be safeguarded if that horse is ridden within its aerobic thresholds.
What I found interesting about Tom Ivers' posts
was addressing Lactic Acid.
Being from a distance running and triathlon
background myself, I always FEARED lactic acid and its IMPROPER buildup.
So, for me, it became something to be "managed" by the methodology I employed in
competition and recovery. I followed the same philosophy with my
horses...now, I'm wondering if there might not be more to learn about Lactic
Acid in horses.
