My training blog posts focus on patterns you can do in different types of enclosures. I specifically refer to round and rectangular arenas, but you can do them anywhere. I use them at endurance rides to bring Fantazia’s mind into focus and warm up.
Most can be used for warm-up or conditioning. They are all useful for training and strengthening, and can help with rhythm, bend, and overall suppleness.
The advantages of ground-tying are many. When you ride out on the trail (as we all do in endurance), it’s a wonderful skill for a… Read More »The advantages of ground-tying: Road to the Tevis Cup # 52
Four spiral exercises to do at the walk, with videos.
Conditioning in the heat can become problematic in a drought!
I owe the inspiration for the clover-leaf exercise for a round arena to my boyfriend. He does this with all of his horses, so regularly… Read More »Training idea # 4: Clover-leaf exercise for a round arena
Everything I’ve been doing wrong that led to us not being ready to do Tevis this year…
A walking warm-up designed for a round arena, with haunches-in and -out, shoulder-in and -out, turns…
A brief description of the final two weeks leading up to our second ride. The timing and exertion of each ride has to be carefully thought out. Eating has to happen!
After a forced six-week lay-off due to smoke from wildfires, Fantazia is fat and full of energy. I am dying to get back on our… Read More »Road to the Tevis Cup Post # 17: Return-to-conditioning exercise
My second major training gaffe (or accident) took place way back in July. I’ve been waiting for the injury to fully heal. Due to the… Read More »The Road to the Tevis Cup, Post #14: The Arena Gate Incident
On Sunday August 9th it had been seven weeks since I brought Fantazia home. We’re now into our eighth week of conditioning, so I figure… Read More »The Road to the Tevis Cup, Post #6: Week 8 Training Update