Re: RC: Up Hill or Down

[Tivers@aol.com]

In a message dated 1/9/00 12:06:16 PM Pacific Standard Time, CMKSAGEHIL 
writes:

<< < While repeatedly running a course downhill might better prepare the 
horse for some of the stressors of this kind of exercise, it remains a 
dangerous practice.>>
 
 Actually, downhills are most easily accomplished at a trot, rather than a 
run.  Dangerous??  Well, about like getting up on a Thoroughbred and busting 
out of a starting gate, I suppose...>

Some similarities--the rotary gallop out of the gate also sets up the 
possibility of interference and fractures. The delay in breakover of the 
front feet going downhill increases the probability of interference. Also 
sets up overdorsiflexion. Also sets up stabbing by the hind legs. All of 
these lead to the possibility of severe injury and the eccentric work 
guarantees inceased muscle damage.
   
  <<No one is skilled at eccentric exercise. Besides, in the past you have 
been very protective of the neophyte rider--why not now?  Seems like you're 
making light of their complaints while encouraging them to attempt things 
that might injure their horses.  >>
 
 Speak for yourself!  As for neophyte riders--no, I am not making light of 
anything.  They are free to get off and lead their horses down ANY decline 
which challenges their mounted comfort level, and as a ride manager, I'm 
always the first to tell them where they may wish to do so.  However, skill 
is a factor in virtually every aspect of every sport--the more skilled one 
is, the less the risk of injury and the higher the chance of winning.  And 
according to you, winning is everything anyway, isn't it?
 
 Heidi >>

Yes, glad you're swinging in my direction at last.

ti


=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Ridecamp is a service of Endurance Net, http://www.endurance.net.    
Information, Policy, Disclaimer: http://www.endurance.net/RideCamp   
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=