In the spring, more advanced arena work continues even after trail
training begins. In other words, a session of dressage followed the
next day by base miles or intervals, depending on the horses needs. This
alternating spring schedule allows for both adaptation and keeping
muscles stretched and pliable.
As the ride season begins, our experienced horses get out almost every
day. Dressage then becomes the warm-up and cool-down phases of the
work-out. Once into the ride season, we use lower level dressage tests
to limber and stretch stiff soft tissues in the days before and after
races. So, dressage to us is as important as trail conditioning.
Ramey