Collection and Endurance

["guest@endurance.net" <guest@endurance.net>]

Kristene ksmuts@sarcc.co.za
Good afternoon

I am currently bringing on a 7yr old Arab Stallion - just broken
in - and we are working sparingly right now as it is winter and
time is at a premium.  All literature I have read, advocates some
dressage training to get the horse to use his back muscles and
hind quarters.  My question is : when riding any distance,
should the horse be in constant collection, or frame, to use
those muscles and quarters?  Surely this would then shorten the
trot and canter strides and not use the entire body efficiently?
And if this is not the way to ride long distance, how would I
get him to use his back muscles and quarters while using an
efficient gait?

He naturally holds his head down in a very relaxed manner when
trotting or cantering, but being green, does not know how to use
his entire body to best advantage.

I value all your knowledge and look forward to your replies

Thanking you
Kristene from South Africa