Training
Canter programme for fitness work
I'm keen to train my horse with a canter programme, to build her up even more. From what I understand it's intervals, like 3 min canter and 1 min walk, then on the second round, and you repeat that a few times with a rest day the day after. But I can't find anything written down, like an actual programme with times and intervals, how you build up gradually, whether you should lengthen each interval or add more. Has anyone got a written programme they'd be willing to share? 🏇
Answers from HayHay's experts
It probably does not need to be any more complicated than that. Here is a programme my previous vet gave me, which I have used myself:
Weeks 1-3, 2 sessions a week: 2 minutes canter, 2 minutes walk, one canter interval per session.
Weeks 4-6, 2 sessions a week: 2 minutes canter, 1 minute walk, two canter intervals per session.
Weeks 7-10, 3 sessions a week: 3 minutes canter, 2 minutes walk, two canter intervals per session, adding a final interval from week 9.
This was from the start of bringing her back into work. Naturally, you begin wherever your horse is at 😊
Elise Lindman
Sports Psychologist
