Getting back onboard

be reintroduced again if appropriate this will help the suppleness and flexibility of the horse and add some interest into their routine. If appropriate lungeing can be used but keep the circles big and lunge for no more than 20 minutes in total Weeks 68 Extend your schooling sessions and introduce canter work. Maintain the hill work and hacking start to introduce pole work and small fences.
Minimising risks
Warming up and cooling down
As you intensify your exercise programme remember to allow time for proper warm up and cool down sessions to help reduce the risk of injury. Warming up will help you both prepare mentally for the session ahead as well as gradually building heart rate and oxygen flow and engage muscles. Cooling down will allow the heart rate to return gradually to normal and reduce the risk of inflammation in the muscles.
Knowing your horse
Being alert to your horses usual behaviour will help you to spot any problems as you progress. Resistance napping bucking rearing favouring one lead over the other or persistently changing leads in canter unsettled head carriage tail swishing or clamping are some of the signs that your horse may be struggling or in pain. If you are worried its important to speak to your vet to discuss next steps.
The right diet
Overfeeding can result in weight gain and behavioural problems. If your horse needs additional feed beyond grass hay and a dietary balancer a low starch high fibre diet will provide slow release energy. Always remember to feed for the actual rather than the anticipated workload and dont overestimate how much work you are doing. Make any dietary changes gradually and speak to your vet or call a feed company helpline for advice if you are unsure.
Rider fitness
Its equally important for us as riders to be fit confident and suited to our horses size temperament and ability this way you will both get the most out of your partnership.
Getting out and about
Be mindful of the fact that your horse may be more exuberant than usual when you get out and about. Factor in extra time at training sessions or unfamiliar hacks away from home to acclimatise him safely!
Fit for purpose
Always make sure your horse is fit enough for your planned activities you both want to have fun and a tired horse is less likely to enjoy the experience and will be more prone to injury.
Rebuilding fitness after time off can be immensely satisfying and fun. It gives you a chance to enhance your skills and iron out any problems ready for when lockdown is lifted and competitions start again.