Description
Book SynopsisThere are many books and DVDs devoted to the technical training of horse and rider - how to perform movements correctly, clear obstacles, communicate efficiently, and in other ways attain the idealised image of an athletic partnership that results in competitive success. But this book is different: its focus is how the rider and trainer can make it easier for the horse to perform optimally. This includes improved understanding of what are reasonable expectations for a particular horse at a certain level of schooling, how to improve his fitness (including strength and conditioning), as well as background on how injuries may develop as a result of interaction between internal and external factors, such as genetics, conformation, management, and training.
Relying on her veterinary background, in-depth research, and dozens of interviews with top riders and trainers from around the world - including Beezie Madden, Carl Hester, and Pippa Funnell, to name just a few - Lonnell provides guidelines for nurturing a happy, healthy equine athlete. With special focus on conscientious pacing when building the horse's physical capability over time, diversification of schooling practices, detail-oriented management and care, and putting the horse's needs above competitive ambition, readers are given a solid grasp of what it takes to truly reach the pinnacle of equestrian sport - and remain there - on a consistent basis. Throughout, gorgeous colour photographs of world-class horses and the people who work with them visually demonstrate the success of these methods.
Trade ReviewThis is a book of infinite use to the rider who wants to improve their riding and horse management, for someone who is interested in providing the best for their horse. It is filled with good sense and offers plenty of references for research possibilities for the rider who is hungry for further knowledge.
-- Louise Broderick * Horse and Pony Ireland *
Written by an equine vet, there is input from some top GB riders like Carl, Pippa and John Whittaker through interviews which help to build a picture of how they train, what they do, how they cope with loss of performance and how they carefully build the horse's physical capabilities over many years to produce top sport horses that can continue to compete for as long as possible and be successful...
Dotted around the book are some universally relevant snippets of information and good advice from author and contributors: ride on a variety of surfaces, treat each horse as an individual, keep the horse happy and give him as good a life as possible, the most expensive horses don't always end up at the top, don't compete too much, feed carefully (especially supplements) and lots of other worthy information. -- Wendy Parsons * Essex Rider *
Table of ContentsForeword
Acknowledgements
1. Background – why this book?2. The horse’s body – anatomy and functionThe internal organs
The musculoskeletal system
3. Preventing injuryWhat does scientific research say?
What do champion riders and top vets say?
4. The ‘right’ horse – are you a good match?Points to consider
Are you a good match?
Advice when buying a horse
5. Allow your horse timeShow the young horse respect
Treat the horse as an individual
6. Your responsibilities as a riderThe horse’s manager – you
Improving yourself mentally and physically
Build a skilled team
7. Feeding, supplements and water8. Riding surfaces – vary where you rideSurface characteristics and use
Maintenance
9. TrainingBasic training principles
Injury risk and training antidotes
Training planning
10. Competition plans and travelCompetition planning
Travelling (to competitions)
11. Supplements, medication and dopingReferences – Scientific studies
Copyright
