Examining every aspect of the sport of endurance riding, from choosing the right horse to the ultimate achievement of racing over 100 miles, this work seeks to inform the complete newcomer as well as the dedicated competitor. Following the sport's motto "to compete is to win", the accent is on preparation and observation, with advice on the key aspects of conditioning, monitoring fitness levels, schooling and feeding. There are training schedules for varying levels of competition, and advice on the latest equipment for horse and rider. A chapter on preparation and fitness includes exercises to improve suppleness and equestrian skills. A chapter on the all-important role of the back-up crew is also included.
This information-packed international bestseller should be on every endurance and competitive trail rider's shelf. To spend hour after hour on the back of a horse is a dream come true for many riders. To ride for miles--25, 50, or even 100--on a fit horse, is an extremely satisfying experience, whether done in competition or just for pleasure. This thrill does not come easily however; it requires immense dedication from the rider and a lot of hard work from the horse. No other equestrian sports demand such a continuous training effort as do endurance and competitive distance riding. To reach the highest level of the sports--competing in a 100-mile ride--requires years of careful conditioning. Even a 25-mile ride demands close attention to every nuance of a horse's being--during the many miles of work beforehand and during the competition itself. It is the horse's welfare that must come above all else.
The first book about endurance riding written specifically for those beginning in the sport, this guide covers selection of horse and tack, training and conditioning and takes you through a complete ride day, including post ride day. There are plentiful anecdotes and a lively pace, along with over 100 images.
From bad weather to business travel to traffic safety, there are dozens of reasons why cyclists and triathletes take their rides inside. Although indoor cycling workouts offer the ultimate control over workout conditions, most inside riders don’t get the most out of their trainers or spin bikes. RIDE INSIDE offers cyclists and triathletes a smart guide to getting more fitness from every indoor cycling workout. From the world’s most experienced personal cycling coach, Joe Friel, RIDE INSIDE reveals all the unique aspects of indoor riding: Mental aspects like motivation, focus, and enjoyment Changes in upper body stability, posture, and pedaling technique on a stationary bike Respiration, hydration, and cooling Inherent changes in power output Lower leg tension and eccentric loading from flywheel momentum Lower effort from lack of terrain changes, headwinds, and crosswinds Road-like feel Different shifting patterns All these differences of indoor riding add up to a big impact when the rubber hits the road. Drawing from the foundations of Friel’s classic training guides, The Cyclist’s Training Bible and The Triathlete’s Training Bible, RIDE INSIDE shows how to apply smart and proven training concepts to indoor cycling. Riders will get expert guidance on the best ways to set up a trainer or smart trainer, how to modify outdoor workouts for indoor cycling, how to better monitor power and RPE, and how to use social online training platforms like Zwift to make training better and not worse. Most critically, RIDE INSIDE shows cyclists and triathletes how to do indoor cycling workouts that actually meet their training goals instead of compromising.
A practical guide to using reward-based training techniques to create a true partnership with your horse. This leads to lifelong connection, effective problem-solving and joyful performance.
The equestrian pursuit known as Cowboy Dressage melds the best of Western riding traditions and classical dressage in the pursuit of a harmonious relationship with a horse. Intended to be accessible to all, Cowboy Dressage is open to all breeds and all levels of riders; there isn’t a set frame for overall look, head carriage, or action. Lifelong horsewoman Jessica Black traces the evolution of Cowboy Dressage back to its roots, sharing the story of Eitan and Debbie Beth-Halachmy and their phenomenal Morgan horses that have served as the movement’s ambassadors. Black then expertly weaves Eitan Beth-Halachmy's experience and expertise into an engaging and articulate explanation of the philosophy of Cowboy Dressage; defines the expectations of the rider; describes what a participant needs in terms of equipment; and explores how the most important element—the horse—should be prepared. A wonderful and thorough section on groundwork, as well as specific training advice for achieving engagement, regulating the gaits, smoothing transitions, and balancing bend and straightness, get the reader started with a solid foundation. Specific descriptions of the Cowboy Dressage tests are provided, with additional tools for those interested in competition, including rules, divisions, and how to execute and judge tests.
Do you wish your horseback riding lessons could come with a user manual? Do you feel that you could serve your horses better as a rider if you only know how and what to do? Would you like to be the rider that all horses dream of? "Horse Listening: The Book" focuses specifically on riding as a means of improving the horse. Based on the popular blog, HorseListening.com, the exercises and ideas are purposely handpicked to help you develop your path to becoming an effective rider, not only for your own benefit, but also for your horse's long-term well being. Special "In the Ring" sections give specific suggestions to try while riding. By following these simple, useful exercises, you will be able to develop a better understanding about: - the rider's aids - the use of the seat - the half-halt - accurate turns and circles - transitions - hind end engagement - rein lameness
This is the long-awaited how-to handbook for treating riding injuries in the field for both rider and horse, with step-by-step numbered instructions for the most common injuries and what to do until help arrives. Injuries range from insect and animal bites, allergies, and broken bones to head injuries, hypothermia, and hoof wounds. This is an authoritative pocket reference that combines advice from a reputable veterinarian and a medical doctor, a perfect package for first aid kits.
Discusses the history of cross-country and endurance equestrian events, and covers topics such as training, equipment, obstacles, rules, judging, risks, breeds, and stars of the sport.
