efficient gaits question

[Mickie Newnam <akelakhan@earthlink.net>]

My gelding has been doing distance rides for 9 years, and I've noticed
that as we've become more and more attuned to each other he'll tell me
what's comfortable.  He has a great trot and that's our usual working
gait, but especially since he started having some wear and tear on the
joints (he's on a flexion supplement and that has helped a lot) he
sometimes needs to canter for a break (although we've done this before
the joint problems as well).  I condition at both and have begun
conditioning more at a canter becasue of this.  Most of the time I'll
let him choose the gait, provided it's not so early on he's just wanting
to go 90mph or he's not just trying to play "catch-up" with someone. 
He's been getting good pulse readings, so I firgure it must be working. 
Don't have a heart monitor; I'd like to but haven't spent the money
yet.  But he's relaxed, the pulses at vet checks are good, and if it
works I'm all for it.  I really believe it depends on the individual.
Mickie

P.S.  Anyone going to the Equine Affaire in Columbus, OH later this week
(besides Teddy and Deb)?  If so, look up the AHAO Distance booth in the
breeed pavilion; I'd love to talk to you!


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