Preparing a horse for the demands of eventing requires a structured approach to conditioning, focusing on building cardiovascular fitness and endurance without overworking the horse. Interval training is a highly effective method to achieve this, systematically working the horse’s heart and lungs through periods of exertion followed by recovery. This article, adapted from the 1987 USCTA Book of Eventing, provides a comprehensive 11-week schedule tailored for Training level horses, introducing both horse and rider to the principles of interval training. The ultimate goal is to develop a horse with sufficient muscle and wind fitness, often referred to as “base,” to successfully navigate any course.
Understanding the Principles of Interval Training
The core of interval training lies in alternating short bursts of high-intensity exercise with brief recovery periods. A crucial element during these gallops is monitoring the horse’s respiration. While pulse checks are impractical, observing how quickly a horse’s breathing returns to normal after exertion provides a clear indicator of improving fitness. A horse that recovers quickly is on the right track, whereas prolonged heavy breathing suggests overwork. It’s vital to remember that each horse is an individual with unique respiration rates and responses. Therefore, any conditioning program must be flexible and adaptable to the specific needs and capabilities of the horse. A fit horse should be in good general condition – neither too thin nor too fat. Signs of being over-worked include a “tight and drawn” appearance, indicating that the horse may be fit but also exhausted. In such cases, slowing down the program is essential.
The Importance of Each Gait
The Walk
The walk is a foundational gait, essential for both conditioning and flat work. The initial fifteen minutes of any session should be dedicated to an active, unhurried walk. Encouraging the horse to work in a long frame with its nose low to the ground promotes a free walk, which is highly valued in dressage. This active walk helps build hindquarter muscle and teaches the horse to balance, particularly on hills. It’s important to teach the horse to move into a more “active gear” at the walk without breaking into a jog, demonstrating a nuanced control of pace.
Flat Work
Flat work can be incorporated before or after hacking, depending on the horse’s temperament. Stiff or tense horses often benefit from a relaxing hack first. For most horses, however, it’s advisable to complete flat work early to address any issues while there’s ample time to adjust the subsequent hack. Completing flat work first also allows for a hacking session to serve as a reward. Practicing dressage movements on varied terrain during hacks can significantly help horses become accustomed to performing them in different environments, a valuable asset when competing.
The Trot
Conditioning trots are fundamentally the same as regular trots, requiring the horse to be round, balanced, and engaged. When performing multiple “trot sets,” varying the intensity and frame is beneficial. For instance, the first trot might utilize a slightly longer frame, the second could incorporate sitting trot or lengthening, and the third might even include a short canter. The objective is to maintain a balanced trot while introducing variety to enhance the schooling benefits.
The Gallops
Gallops should be executed with the horse in a slightly longer frame, maintaining a round, balanced posture, rather than a shortened, vertical head carriage. If flat work has been effective, the rider should be able to lengthen the reins, encouraging the horse to lower its neck and stretch its nose forward. The horse should maintain contact – not too light, not pulling – in a balanced frame. For support during gallops, riders can utilize a single rein bridge. It is recommended that young horses stabilize at a gallop of 350-400 meters per minute before progressing to lengthening and shortening strides. Incorporating hills during gallops is crucial for developing balance and fitness. Galloping downhill at a slightly slower pace (300-350 meters per minute) and uphill at a faster pace (400 meters per minute) is advised. This approach conserves the horse’s legs and prepares them for making up time during events.
A Structured Conditioning Schedule
This 11-week schedule provides a progressive plan for bringing a Training level horse from pasture to its first event. It emphasizes gradual increases in intensity and duration, incorporating lunging, flat work, trot sets, canters, gymnastics, and gallops.
Weeks 1-4: Foundation Building
These initial weeks focus on reintroducing the horse to work through lunging and riding at the walk and trot. The emphasis is on establishing an active walk, building trot duration, and introducing basic gymnastic exercises like cavaletti poles. Rest days are crucial for recovery and preventing burnout.
Weeks 5-8: Introducing Intensity and Gymnastics
As the horse builds fitness, the schedule introduces longer trots, the first gallops, and more complex gymnastic exercises. Hills are incorporated into hacks and trots to enhance hill work and balance. The duration and intensity of gallops gradually increase, along with the complexity of jumping efforts.
Weeks 9-11: Peaking for Competition
The final weeks focus on simulating competition demands, including longer gallops at increased speeds, more challenging cross-country schooling, and practicing dressage tests. Show jumping sessions focus on specific elements and course jumping. The week leading up to the event involves lighter work and dressage practice, culminating in shipping to the event.
Additional Training Tips
- Clipping: Avoid clipping in cold weather until the horse begins to sweat during work, or at least not until the third or fourth week. If clipping is necessary, use a quarter sheet when riding.
- Feeding: Gradually increase feed as the conditioning schedule becomes more demanding.
- Lunging: Ensure the horse works in a round, long frame at the walk and trot, maintaining a relaxed, regular rhythm. Voice command response and obedience are key.
- Cantering: First canters should be at an ordinary working pace in a forward seat.
- Flat Work: Utilize large circles, figures, serpentines, and changes of direction.
- Tiredness: If the horse tires at any point, immediately back off and adjust the program.
- Instruction: Seek assistance from an instructor, as training solely from a written plan is insufficient.
- Gallops: For Training level, gallops primarily aim to teach the horse a settled and relaxed attitude at this gait. If a horse gains fitness easily, one gallop per week may suffice, extended slightly in duration. If jumping requires more work, substitute jumping exercises for a gallop session. Galloping twice a week should not exceed 4 minutes at 400 meters per minute, followed by 5 minutes at the same pace. Galloping once a week should build up to 6 minutes at 400 meters per minute, followed by another 6 minutes at the same pace.
This conditioning schedule serves as a guideline and must be adapted to the individual horse’s needs, fitness level, terrain, and response to training. Consistent monitoring and adjustments are key to successful event horse preparation.
