I have just started riding with a HM and am curious
about the readings I'm getting.
After warming up and on short conditioning rides
(10-15 miles), my gaited mare
consistently works in the 130-140s at about 8-9
mph on gradual climbs and short hills;
and in the 110-120s
when slowed to 4-5 mph. She prefers
travelling at 8-9 mph.
On steep climbs, she
will peak at 170, but drop immediately into the
130s-140s
as soon as exertion is over.
When pulled to a stop, her bpm drops to the 80s in
about a minute, and to the 60s in
about 2 minutes.
I am concerned that she works consistently at such
a "high" reading, but her attitude
and impulsion are very forward.
My questions: How do these readings compare
to what others are getting on their horses
for this type of conditioning work?
and, Are there horses who have a higher threshold
for anaerobic work (a level higher than
the 150 bpm suggested in the HM literature for
when their systems begin working
anaerobically)?