ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: [endurance] Conditioning for 50
Re: [endurance] Conditioning for 50
Marinera@aol.com
Thu, 14 Mar 1996 23:48:16 -0500
I think it is hard to advise anyone on how many miles or how far to ride your
horse in a conditoning program unless you know whether the person lives on
the flat or in the mountains, whether the temperature is usually 50 degrees
or 90 degrees when you train, whether you are at sea level or 10,000 feet,
whether the humidity is high or low, the age of the horse and what sort of
work the horse has done previously. You have to monitor the horse's
recoveries and his legs, his attitude, etc. And the most important is whether
the horse is a talented athelete or one with just average ability.There are
too many variables to lay down any blanket rules. But I do agree with those
who are surprised how easily some lightly condtioned horses can complete a 50
miler with little wear and tear. Others can take months. Horses vary in
their athletic ability as much as people so it is really hard to generalize.
It does not necessarily follow that the training program that works for one
horse will be ideal for another. Good luck. Julie