Re: training for endurance

[CMKSAGEHIL <CMKSAGEHIL@aol.com>]

In a message dated 98-01-16 23:16:24 EST, you write:

<< If I was thinking about dressage, then that would be a different
 >thing. I don't necessarily need to teach her some of the subtleties
 >that would necessitate using a bit (although maybe one day... ,g>). >>


I guess I missed Lucy's original post.  I think one of the biggest mistakes
endurance riders make is NOT to be doing dressage training right along with
endurance conditioning.  Dressage teaches a horse to round his back, assisting
him in carrying your weight all those miles.  It teaches him to utilize his
gaits more completely and more freely.  It gives you and your horse basic and
intimate communication skills.  From my vantage point as ride veterinarian I
see all too many horses that are fit but performing well below their
capabilities simply because they have never been taught "the basics".  I don't
ride rides in a bit most of the time, but all of my horses start out in
snaffles and "graduate" to the bitless state when they are old hands.

Heidi Smith, DVM--Sagehill Arabians (Oregon)