I have a question for those of you who are really experienced with this.
I've had to lay Special off because I was over conditioning her and she
dropped too much weight. She's been layed off about 2 months, and is now
picking up her weight. She looks much better, but...I -would- like her to
gain a little more. I now have her diet straightened out. I would
really like to do the Prineville 50 in the end of May. It would be our
first 50, and our first ride. I'M NOT IN THIS TO WIN, or even to place
well. I just want to compete, complete, and be happy with myself and my
horse.
Now the question and my plan. Is it possible with light conditioning
to compete in a 50?? Before I layed her off she was doing
-very well- at 20 miles. Her heart rates, resps, and attitude, were really
good. And I'm sure that at that point she could have done a 50. I know
now that I was over conditioning her, and that she's the type of horse
that needs light regular conditioning. I was thinking of keeping her
mostly laid of for the month of March. Just weekend 10-15 mile slow
rides, and a very light ride during the week. Then in April up her miles
on the weekend a little (15-20 miles), mostly trotting, a little walking
and the occasional canter *:) And throw in a 5-10 mile ride during the
week. And then in May do a couple 20-25 mile weekend rides, and 1 or 2
mid week short rides. So, my question is: Is that enough?? Also, would
1 midweek, short ride be enough? Or would I need to do 2? I -really-
don't want to over condition her!
All of this has the big--IF SHE DOESN'T DROP WEIGHT--hanging over it. If
she starts dropping weight again, then I'm back to the beginning.
TIA! I really appreciate the advice I get from y'all.
@-',--- MARISA ---',-@ ****************************
............................. * Tell the truth--there's *
purpl2@teleport.com * less to remember.... *
Portland, Oregon ****************************