restarting the rested horse

["Moncur" <moncur@latrobe.net.au>]

Hello all on Ridecamp,

I have been lurking for a while here in Aussie-land, and really enjoying the
exchanges. My question is aimed at some of the experienced riders or equine
physiologists out there (Tom Ivers, Truman??)

I have just bought an arab gelding, 11 yo, who was started under saddle, and
commenced LSD work with a very experienced endurance rider. His endurance
education was continued by another experienced rider, and he has never had
any injuries. He has remained fit and in competition until he was about
eight. He was then sold, but remained fairly fit, although not competing.
For the last six months he has been turned out, and not ridden at all.

I aim to commence in some slow 40 km (25 mile) rides, and am working toward
that, with an idea to move up to 80 km rides by the end of the year.

I understand that cardiovascular fitness can be achieved fairly quickly,
with muscular and lastly bony/tendon fitness taking longer. If a horse has
been 'legged-up' and correctly started, would I have to start back at the
beginning with months of LSD work, or can I assume that he is still fairly
fit and hard in his tendons? He looks and feels fit, just carrying a bit of
extra weight.

I would appreciate suggestions on how best to prepare him. We have all sorts
of country around here - flat, hilly, hard or soft going, so I can vary the
terrain.

Thanks

Jenny (in OZ)


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