This article first appeared in the August 2022 digital edition of Equestrian Life. To see what’s in the current issue, click here. 

Cathrine Laudrup-Dufour and Atterupgaards Cassidy, who competed successfully at international Grand Prix level until age 19.

© FEI/Satu Pirinen

Train your horse for longevity

By Roger Fitzhardinge

Every horse is individual and needs individual training and management programs, but it is of the utmost importance to start with a sound horse that has good conformation and an ability to do the job you require.

When talking of longevity, it’s most important to remember that a good competition horse takes many years to achieve a high level of competence. In the early stages, thinking ahead to five years down the track can be a fleeting thought, but it should be a serious consideration. You must always look to the big picture. The care to train for a mentally and physically sound horse for tomorrow should always be a priority. The two go hand in hand.

Every rider has varying degrees of aspiration and, as a consequence, has to think logically and unemotionally about their goal. What discipline? The Olympics or adult riding? Pony Club or trail riding? No matter what the level you require, there are basic guidelines that you should always look to…

Click here to read the full article FREE in the August 2022 issue of Equestrian Life magazine.

READ THE LATEST NEWS ARTICLES HERE