I wasnt sure where to put this, but this looks like it might work. After a ten year hiatus (no moneys ) I started riding again over the summer and last week bought a family friendly 13/14 hand paint/POA. She hasn't been ridden in a year or more, so she's fat an out of shape. My hopes for her are to get myself back in the saddle and ready for a more difficult horse to then pass her on to my husband, son, and miscellaneous children in my life who love horses. That said, I'm an eventer at heart, so I need this girl in shape to take on some jumps. She's very mellow, very soft trot, hasn't been ridden in a year and I can ride her bareback in a field without issues. So to the point, I need tips on conditioning and getting her fit again. Right now I'm just doing fifteen minute walks (when it's not blizzarding!) with short trots. Lots of circles, walk/halt, surpentines, just trying to get her back in the habit of being worked. I've just never had this issue and don't want to over/under work her. any help or websites much appreciated!
Walking with a long stride for a while to loosen her up. Then trot for five minutes. Build up from there. Everyone has a different opinion of overweight and many cut feed way back. I would keep her feed the same and depending on how often you are riding as you ride harder give her a day off in between or light riding on off days. After a mabe 2 week or so you should be up to 10 minutes of trotting. There are some searches on conditioning online. Just don't over do it so you don't have an injury. Build up a little each week
Thanks, tho she's fat enough every one has said (including the vet) don't grain her, just hay and turn out, and not a lot of hay at that, three flakes a day on average. I just don't want to over due it, under due it and take longer is fine, but I don't want to hurt her
I do not know how big your husband is, but 13 -14 hands, is a pony. Way to small for any but the smallest adult males.
And for an adult woman to jump a pony, you need to be the petite family for sure!
I know I'm tall, but skinny, and I'm not talking four foot jumps, just a little beginner novice stuff more to see if she'll do it, if not then I'll know for the future. and my hubby is also a bit thick, but only five ten, he also doesn't intend on ever doing anything but walking (he's a scardy cat) and keeping me company while I ride. eventually she'll go to my son...but my main concern is getting her fit to be ridden four or five times a week.
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