In the first few weeks of training, young horses begin their journey towards becoming successful competitors. At this early stage, it’s crucial to establish a foundation built on trust, clear communication, and consistent routines.
By introducing the basic commands and exercises gradually, both the trainer and the horse can develop a strong bond, which fosters efficient learning and growth.
This guide will walk you through these initial weeks, providing you with essential techniques and insights to help shape your horse into a future winner in the competitive arena.
Weeks 1-2: Establishing a Fitness Routine
In the initial weeks of your horse’s training programme, the focus should be on laying down a foundation of fitness.
Smooth Road Walking Exercises
Start with walking exercises, ideally on smooth roads. Smooth surfaces reduce the risk of your horse tweaking a tendon, or spraining a muscle, which can occur when walking on soft or uneven surfaces. Commence with brief sessions of around 30 minutes, gradually extending the duration over a week to about an hour.
During these exercises, it’s essential that your horse doesn’t just meander along but actively walks out. While it’s not necessary to put the horse ‘on the bit’ (in a position where it follows the bit willingly), consistent contact should be maintained and the horse should move forward in response to your leg.
Gradual Increase in Workout Duration
Over the following week, continue to incrementally increase the walking duration. By the end of two weeks, aim for a lively horse that has comfortably achieved an exercise session of 1 1/2 hours.
Optional Use of Inclines
If you have access to lengthy, slow inclines, they can be particularly beneficial. Incorporating uphill walks into the training will give your horse’s muscles, heart, and lungs a more rigorous workout. However, it’s vital to ensure your horse remains balanced during the uphill and downhill walks.
Weeks 3-4: Introducing Trotting and Monitor Fitness
In the subsequent weeks of your horse’s training programme, new exercises and routines are introduced. This period solidifies the base of your horse’s fitness and focuses on escalating to higher levels of activity.
Introducing Trotting
By the third week, short periods of trotting can be added to your exercise schedule. If your horse is returning to work after a substantial period of rest, continue the walking exercise and take an extended period to increase the duration.
Always opt for suitable surfaces when trotting. Navigating rutted bridleways could lead to strains or sprains. Extremely hard ground should be avoided to prevent triggering any foot problems due to excessive pressure.
If you’re training your horse for hunting or endurance riding, trotting on the roads will need to be part of your training routine, as this mirrors actual event conditions. Ensure you time your trotting sessions and gradually extend them each day. Pay attention to your horse’s breathing to gauge its fitness level.
Vigilance in Monitoring
During this period of escalated activity, regular checks on your horse’s legs are necessary. This is especially vital after each step up in the fitness routine. In addition to this, a routine weekly health check should be conducted. This should include pulse, temperature, and respiration checks, as well as weight assessment.
Introduction of Schooling Work
Around the third or fourth week, consider introducing some schooling work. Some trainers favor schooling over roadwork or hacking for fitness. Take, for example, former Olympic event champion Matt Ryan. He prioritizes improving his horses’ suppleness through schooling work rather than hacking out. He also incorporates gridwork and canter sessions later on.
With a variety of training methods available, it’s essential to keep an open mind and adapt techniques to cater to your horse’s individual needs. According to the ‘standard’ fittening programme widely recognized and used by many riders, canter work is usually introduced in the fourth week.
Weeks 5-10: Incorporating More Activities
In the following weeks of your horse’s training schedule, the routines become more intense and diversified. Your horse will be introduced to an expanded range of exercises which gradually turn up the intensity.
Introducing Canter and Jumping
Over approximately the next four weeks, more sessions of canter exercises and jumping activities can be gradually folded into the routine. These fit well alongside the already introduced dressage schooling sessions. The introduction of these exercises should be slow and methodical, avoiding any sudden leaps in intensity.
Preparing for Eventing
If your goal is to prepare your horse for eventing, following this programme should mean that by the end of the 8-10 week period, your horse will be fit enough to handle a fairly demanding cross-country course. It should also be able to undertake a dressage test and complete a showjumping round, all within the same day.
As always, remember to closely monitor your horse’s response to the increased activity level. It’s important to adapt the programme based on how well your horse is coping with the new exercises – every horse is individual, after all.
Interval Training and Its Benefits
Interval training, initially developed for human athletes, has been successfully adapted for horses. This structured technique can take uncertainty out of preparing a horse for strenuous activities, incrementally increasing a horse’s tolerance for high-level work without unnecessarily elevating stress levels.
Understanding Interval Training
In essence, interval training uses specific set work periods at defined paces and speeds. These periods are interspersed with equally set periods of rest in which the horse partially recovers before proceeding to the next set of work. The goal is a gradual increase in work tolerance without allowing stress levels to get too high.
Interval training requires constant monitoring of the horse’s pulse and respiration rates as indicators of the stress levels the horse is experiencing. Because the work periods are relatively short, the risk of injury and ‘anaerobic’ respiration is significantly reduced.
Aerobic and Anaerobic Respiration
Anaerobic respiration is a process that comes into play when a horse’s energy demand exceeds the supply of oxygen being delivered through the blood. In these scenarios, the horse’s muscle tissue uses stored glycogen to produce energy without the aid of oxygen.
While this processes does provide energy, it is not very efficient and produces lactic acid, a toxic byproduct that adds to fatigue and inhibits a horse’s performance. The focus of getting a horse fit is to enable the horse to work ‘aerobically’—a state where the oxygen supply in the blood is adequate to meet energy demands. This allows the horse to work longer before anaerobic respiration and lactic acid build-up result in fatigue.
Interval training focuses on developing the horse’s aerobic capacity. Since the work periods are short, this technique reduces the chances of injury and fatigue.
Before You Begin Interval Training
It is essential to note that before starting interval training, a horse needs a basic foundation of fitness. This usually entails a four week period of walking and trotting exercises.
Specimen Fitness Programmes
The following fitness programme examples serve as general guidelines, and should be adapted for each horse and rider’s unique circumstances. Emphasizing the importance of building a solid fitness foundation is essential – avoid taking shortcuts. Additionally, take into consideration that young horses typically require more time to reach their peak fitness levels compared to seasoned competitors. Do not rush the early stages or impose excessive strains on younger horses.
Time and Money: Investment for Success
Investing time and money in your horse’s fitness is crucial, particularly for certain disciplines. For instance, if your focus is on endurance, you may need to travel to different areas for your horse to practice on hills or engaging in long, interesting rides. Similarly, eventers might need to rent gallops from local training centers if they lack access to suitable terrain for faster work. Planning ahead and allocating the necessary resources can make a significant difference in your horse’s overall fitness and readiness for competition.
Showjumping Fitness Program
Developing a suitable fitness program is essential for enhancing a horse’s performance in showjumping. The following eight-week plan is a suggested outline that can be adapted based on your horse’s individual needs and experience level.
Weeks 1-2: Roadwork and Walking
Begin with roadwork, starting with 30 minutes of walking, and gradually increase to one hour by the end of the first week. By the end of the second week, aim for two hours of walking.
Weeks 3-4: Schooling Sessions and Trotting
Continue walking on roads, but start incorporating schooling sessions in an arena or field. These sessions should last approximately 20 minutes, involving both walking and trotting. Warm up your horse with a hack before starting any schooling session. The amount of schooling required depends on your horse’s age and experience level, with younger horses likely needing more schooling than seasoned competitors.
There are varying opinions on introducing trotting periods during roadwork, with some concerned about the increased concussion on the horse’s limbs. Consider your horse’s individual needs and consult with a professional when making this decision.
Weeks 5-6: Canter Work, Jumping, and Intensive Schooling
In this phase, introduce canter work, more intensive schooling sessions, and some jumping. Gridwork can be used to enhance your horse’s agility, confidence, and build the correct musculature. Avoid overdoing the jumping: plan for two jumping sessions during the fifth week and three to four during the sixth week. Gradually increase the canter work during this period.
Showjumpers need to make tight turns at high speeds in competition, so ensure their flatwork and jump schooling include exercises that focus on suppleness and obedience. By the end of the sixth week, some horses may be ready to participate in a small competition.
Weeks 7-8: Competition and Varied Work
Assuming your horse is competing one day per week during these two weeks, vary their work program by incorporating hacks out, schooling sessions, and no more than a couple of jumping sessions per week. Balancing competition-related activities with a well-rounded fitness program ensures the horse remains in optimal shape and continues to perform at their best.
Dressage Fitness Program
Developing a fitness program for dressage is essential to enhance a horse’s performance, suppleness, and power. The following plan outlines a progression of activities and schooling sessions over the course of several weeks, which can be adapted based on your horse’s individual needs and experience level.
Weeks 1-4: Roadwork and Walking
For the first four weeks, follow the same fitness plan as for showjumping, focusing on roadwork and walking. Gradually increase the duration of walking from 30 minutes to two hours by the end of this initial phase.
Week 5 Onwards: Schooling and Lungeing
From the fifth week, lengthen schooling sessions or alternate them with lungeing sessions. Ideally, work towards a total of around 40 minutes per day while being mindful of any difficulties encountered and ensuring you always finish on a positive note. Be cautious not to overwork the horse in the arena to prevent them from becoming sour, and provide regular breaks to allow their muscles to relax after exertion.
Incorporate hacks out, gridwork, or loose-jumping sessions into the fitness routine, even if the horse’s primary discipline is dressage. This helps maintain variety in the training regimen.
As a general guideline, aim for eight weeks of work before entering your horse in their first dressage show. Building the correct muscles and muscle tone to compete at a high level in dressage requires years of systematic training, so patience and dedication are crucial.
Eventing Fitness Program
Developing a well-rounded fitness program for eventing is crucial for optimal performance in dressage, showjumping, and cross-country. The following 12-week plan outlines a variety of activities that can be adapted to your horse’s individual needs and experience level.
Weeks 1-2: Roadwork and Walking
For the first two weeks, follow the same fitness plan as for showjumping, with a focus on roadwork and walking. Gradually increase the duration of walking from 30 minutes to two hours by the end of this initial phase.
Weeks 3-4: Introducing Short Trots and Reducing Hack Length
Begin to incorporate short trots into your two-hour hacks during week 3. Start with a trot of just under two minutes on the first day, and add two two-minute trots on the second day, gradually increasing throughout the week. Simultaneously, reduce the length of the hacks by the end of week 3 to 1.5 hours, including two five-minute trots.
Week 4 consists of four days of 1.5-hour hacks with three five-minute trots and two days of one-hour walks, complemented by a 20-minute schooling session.
Weeks 5-6: Canter and Pole Work, Small Jumps
Introduce canter and pole work in weeks 5 and 6, while continuing to hack out (including walk, trot, and short canters) and extending schooling sessions to 30-40 minutes. In week 6, incorporate small jumps as part of the schooling. Gradually build up canter work so that, by the end of the week, your horse can comfortably cope with a 1.5-hour hack, including two three-minute canters. Ensure the canters are strong and forward-going.
By this point, your horse should be fit enough for a dressage or small showjumping competition.
Week 7: Interval Training
If using interval training, introduce it in week 7 and incorporate it once every four days. Continue to hack out and school your horse on the flat and over fences.
Weeks 8-12: Cross-Country Work and Preparing for Horse Trials
In these weeks, maintain a mixture of one-hour hacks, schooling sessions, and twice-weekly jumping sessions. Include cross-country work to further develop your horse’s skill set. For those implementing interval training, progressively increase the time spent in canters. The goal is to participate in your first horse trials by the end of week 12.
Regardless of whether you choose to pursue interval training, your horse should complete at least four sessions of faster work leading up to their first event.
Endurance Training for Horses
Embarking on an endurance training program for your horse demands proper planning and incremental increases in exercise to ensure your horse doesn’t experience undue stress. It’s key to remember that, like humans, horses also need a diverse and engaging exercise regimen. Not only does this assure physical readiness but it promotes mental well-being by preventing boredom.
Building Basic Stamina and Fitness
A horse that’s reasonably fit should be able to complete a 24km (15-mile) pleasure ride without undue effort. However, for longer, faster rides, a more detailed and intense preparation is needed. Both horse and rider must be adequately prepared for the exertion to avoid fatigue and undue stress.
The initial conditioning work for endurance horses should involve longer sessions than typically suggested for other disciplines. Incorporating varied terrain into these workouts can prevent monotony while promoting muscle development, such as hill work.
Training for Rides up to 48km (30 miles)
If your horse is currently hacking fit, you’ll need approximately two weeks of additional training to prepare for a 32km (20-mile) pleasure ride. If this goes smoothly and you aim for a 48km (30-mile) ride (average speed 9.5kmph/6mph), plan for two to three additional weeks of preparation.
Increase the duration of training rides to include two-hour sessions with several miles of trotting at a good pace (around 13kmph/8mph) and more canter work. Schedule these longer rides at least twice a week, supplementing them with shorter rides that include short, high-intensity canters. At this level, avoid exceeding average ride speeds of 16-19kmph (10-12mph) to prevent overexertion.
Training for Rides up to 64km (40 miles)
Prepare for 64km (40-mile) rides with additional time and training, remembering that each horse’s training plan should be individualized. Approximately four weeks, exercising six days per week, should facilitate the transition from 48km (30-mile) to 64km (40-mile) rides.
In the two weeks preceding the 64km (40-mile) ride, the horse should be able to execute 40km (25-mile), 32km (20-mile) and 32km (20-mile) rides on consecutive days, at an average speed of 11kmph (7mph). In the week prior to the competition, lessen the intensity and maintain your horse’s fitness, with the most strenuous ride being 32km (20 miles) in the middle of the final week.
Training for Long Distance Rides
For longer rides up to 160km (100 miles), expect preparation to span several months. The prime consideration should be to condition and prepare your horse steadily to avoid burnout or injury.
Setting the Pace in Endurance Training
Understanding your horse’s comfortable pace across different gaits is vital in endurance training. Aim for a walk averaging 6.5-8kmph (4-5mph), with a relaxed, free-striding horse. In trot and canter, refrain from pushing him beyond his comfort zone, as it can lead to exhaustion. A slow trot should be around 9.5-11 kmph (6-7mph), a strong trot 14.5-16kmph (9-10mph). If a slower trot is your horse’s limit, consider incorporating a steady canter to speed up times, averaging about 16-19kmph (10-12mph).
Tailoring the Training Plan to Individual Needs
It’s crucial to understand that the outlined training programs are meant to serve as guiding principles. Each horse’s fitness regime should be catered and fine-tuned to their individual needs and capabilities.
The Importance of Practical Experience
Experience in horse training is invaluable: there’s no substitute for it. When your experience is coupled with sound principles and a deep understanding of horse physiology, training becomes a lot more effective. Whether you are working on endurance training or simply keeping your horse fit, understanding their unique needs and abilities is crucial for their health and performance.
Smart Training Principles
Based on the fundamentals of horse training, understanding your horse’s strengths, weaknesses, and intelligent application of these principles greatly enhances the effectiveness of the fitness schedule. A horse’s training program cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach. Considerations like age, breed, health, and even personality traits can significantly impact the effectiveness of a training program.
Prioritizing Horse Health & Well-being
Above all, the health and well-being of the horse should be priority in any fitness schedule. Every effort must be made to ensure that the horse is not strained or stressed beyond its capacity during the training. Remember, your horse’s welfare is paramount, and all activities should be carried out with their best interests in mind.
