Diane wrote
> And the TB has the additional advantage of
>intelligence and willingness to work that the so-called "dumb-bloods" do
>not.
How do you explain the few number of TB in endurance ?
>Then we have our Arabs. These guys hit the ground with erect tails and
>noses pointed to the moon!
>Could we hazard a guess that self-carriage for Arabs is different from
>that of WB & TB's, especially at the trot? Most Arabs going down the
>trail will have--on average--a more erect way-of-going.
Correct what are the main consequences for a long distance horse
- limited speed
- metabolic problems
- off more often
How do you explain the success story of Arabs in Endurance ?
> Perhaps we need
>to redefine the concept of self-carriage for the trail horse.
Certainly, was it already defined ?
>You cannot go miles down the trail in collection, but you can go miles
>with a natural rhythmic self-carriage appropriate for the breed.
So can we say that dressage is 100% benefit for a trail horse ?
>I would suggest that the canter is a more appropriate gait, can be done
>with more "collection" and rounding that the racing trot can possibly
>achieve.
>Gaits designed for speed (racing trot and gallop) often call for the very
>kind of high head-hollow back syndrome we think we should avoid (check
>out
Absolutely
> The canter can be controlled with a three point seat system allowing you
>to manage length of stride, speed and collection.
New for me do you have litterature on this particular important point ? (three
vs two point seat)
> You have to do it through the entire calf with your thighs loose and flexible
>knees.
We have an expression which could be "the pleasure of the calf..."
>Guess that's enough dressage-on-trail for today.
No no continue when it's dressage-on-trail and not only dressage.
> Would appreciate feed-back.
done
>Saddle survey coming along--will bring everyone up-to-date soon.
Waiting
Thank you Diane
Pierre from France.