Start with weeks of walking to build a base, then add slow trot and gradually more work, increasing one thing at a time. Allow recovery days, monitor legs and breathing, and support with good diet and hydration.
Build a base first
Fitness starts with plenty of walking, often several weeks of it, to condition tendons, ligaments and the cardiovascular system before any faster work. This unglamorous foundation is what prevents injury when the work steps up, so do not skip it.
Increase gradually
Add slow trot work, then longer and more varied sessions, changing only one thing at a time, whether that is duration, speed or intensity. Rushing fittening is the fastest route to strains and setbacks, so progress steadily and listen to the horse.
Use hills and variety
Hill work and pole work build strength and topline without high speed, and varied hacking keeps a horse fresh in mind and body. Mixing surfaces and terrain conditions the legs to cope with whatever your riding demands.
Allow recovery
Fitness is built during rest as much as work, so include easy days and turnout. Feel the legs after work for heat or filling, watch that breathing recovers quickly, and back off if the horse is tired or sore rather than pushing through.
Feed and hydrate for work
Match feed to the rising workload, favouring quality forage and fibre with added energy as needed, and keep hydration up. A working, sweating horse benefits from electrolytes, and a balanced supplement supports muscle and joint health as fitness builds.
