While I agree with Wendy's concept and programs that she has propounded for
endurance horses in feeding and conditioning I do wish to offer the
following caution:
EACH HORSE IS AN INDIVIDUAL!!!
Because Wendy stated a certain figure, be it weight or quantity of feed, or
be it a distance, speed, or time interval of training, do not be assured
that this is a positive measure for your particular animal. These are
STARTING GUIDELINES!!!
Each horse in its particular structure, in its particular way of being kept
and in its own particular metabolism must be examined and the starting
guidelines modified to fit.
THERE IS NO ONE SOLUTION!!!
My way of keeping, feeding, training and conditioning will not work with
your horse. I can give GUIDELINES but the amount of feed I use, the speed
and distance I train is for my horses and no one elses. If I tried to canter
at 20mph on my training grounds I would kill my horse not to say myself. But
I trot up and down hill and walk on the level. Two hours of trotting with
an elevation gain of 3,000 to 3,500 foot gain would try many horses but that
is what I regularly do. Trot up the 3k ft and trot down the 3k ft. all in
less than 20 miles.
So!! Take any program and start out slow, modify it as you go along. Make it
fit you and your horse. If you intend to finish in the mid-pack train for
mid-pack. Do not train for the forefront and then ride midway. Your horse
will not like it, be upset and you will have problems.
Many persons that I observe on line here want to have the utmost in feed,
conditioning and training. Then they ride mid-way or less and wonder why El
Horso gives them a hard time. Remember when you were a teenager? Young, fit,
hormones raging, ready to go? Got frustrated didn't you?? Well your horse is
young, fit and racing to go and you say no. THINK!!!
Have at me now
Bob Morris
Morris Endurance Enterprises
Boise, ID