Re: RC: arena conditioning/Building strength/flexibility

[DVeritas@aol.com]

In a message dated 1/29/01 7:10:57 PM Mountain Standard Time, 
qhjanet@hotmail.com writes:


> I'd much rather condition using an arena and get 
> some competition in, than not have the option of competing at all.


    That is a very good point, with which I agree.
    I believe that arena work, EFFECTIVE ARENA WORK, is essential in helping 
the trail create an efficient endurance mount.
    Not to go too deeply into it, but some of the things which can 
"translate" into an efficient endurance mount would be:
             1.  Serpentine work in sitting trot to strengthen the loin 
resulting in an increase in flexibility which aids in preventing injury on 
the trail as well as "connecting" the locomotion longitudinally.  An added 
benefit would be instilling a sense of "rhythm and tempo", translating in 
allowing the horse to learn about rating himself.
             2.  Low gymnastic work to strengthen the stomach muscles and 
stifle, enabling the horse to work towards the effortless tightening and 
lifting of its stomach muscles, again fostering the back to front connection.
             3.  Riding a large figure eight in rising trot while quietly 
changing diagonals will build bi-lateral strength and flexibility enabling 
the horse to learn to depend on both sides of his body instead of continually 
loading just one.
    "Augmenting" good, effective trail conditioning with periodic arena work 
can be extremely effective, provided it is administered fairly with the goal 
of strengthening and not drilling the horse without proper rest periods.
    The flexibility engendered by similar regimens translates into real 
strength.
    JMHO,
       Frank.