But I don't look for an extended trot on the trail. I think that's too
hard on the joints and I certainly don't want all that collection. I'd
rather see mine go from a working trot into a relaxed canter. Moreover,
the canter uses different muscles which I think is a good break for the
horse. And me too (we really shouldn't forget about the rider!). I'm
being dressage-specific here, which is an excellent way to learn about
all the different rates of speed within the different gaites and how to
do them properly.
By the way, my relatively new endurance horse (six 50s on her) will be
shown in dressage at an Arab show in Vallejo this spring. It'll be her
first and I'm really excited about it, particularly because she really
enjoys arena work! I'll also be showing my four-year-old, whom I'm also
grooming for endurance. Cross-training is fun!!!!
Carol