I Want to start Endurance riding with my two Arabian mares, Whats the best way to go about it?

Question

I have a pure bred 4y/o Arabian mare who I am currently bringing up to full fitness and a 5y/o 60.5% Arabian Mare both of which I am looking to start endurance riding with, obviously I will not do anything with either or them until they are fit enough, and I know neither can compete properly until they are 7 but I was wondering the way to get started, I live on Bucks/Northants/Oxon Border, I need to find some non - competative rides to start with, and just any general advice would be much appreciated! Many Thanks

Answer 1

If you're serious about this, locate some rides in your area (or near by) and volunteer.  They're usually always in need of help at these events.  

That way you can meet experienced competitors and see what they're doing, get great advice, maybe even get someone to mentor you.

The girl that will be riding my Spanish Mustang is going to be mentored by one of the most experienced riders in the state.  Good Luck.

Answer 2

A great way to build up a horses stamina and endurance is to trot through deep soft sand (obviously not to deep)! I have found this to work with my horses I'm not sure what your landscape looks like out there, but riding through deep arroyos and stuff is great. Try not run, because trotting takes more of an effort from the horse so there for the muscle builds up faster. Depending on how strong your horses are currently you can go 2-6 miles maybe everyother day and gradually go longer and work them more often. When I go on trail rides I am sure to properly cool out my horse after wards to ensure there legs wont stiffen up and go lame! I'm sure you may have heard this stuff before, But Hope It Still Helps!!!!

P.S. Its good to space out the days you work with the horses unless there at the point of being ridden every day!

Answer 3

read and search the web for endurance events in your area that you could go to and ask the people there questions.

there's many different things to do, but i'd suggest at least finding an endurance rider as a mentor to you.

good luck and have fun

website that i joined and has alot of info:

http://www.my-endurance.net/