I rode Mandros today and it was so hot. I tried to get out there early, but I didnt, and I rode at about 12:30, so it was very hot. He was pretty good today, though.
We've been working on straightness and making our circles circular. He likes to go the way he wants, so we've been working on these things. When we go down centerline, he likes to turn early, instead of getting close to the fence. One thing Ive done for this is ride him right to the fence, then halt. He knows we are going to turn one way and he anticipates whats going to happen.
Our circles are getting better, but I really hate working on a really long rein. Ive gotten used to getting him in a higher frame, and it feels like Im throwing away the rein when Im working like this. My reins are almost to the buckle, and he looks fine in the mirror, but its a big change. He has to work this way because the longer the frame, the longer the stride, and the more be stretches his back leg.
His owner gave me the go-ahead to bump his trot work up to 15 mins, and to canter a couple circles. His canter felt a little bit better today. He still had trouble holding the left lead, but I was able to pick it back up and canter a couple more strides. I was able to take a couple pictures today in the mirror. I tried really hard to get some of me moving, but they just didnt turn out. Oh, and the arena is level, the mirror makes it look like its on a hill.
5 comments:
That looks like a nice BIG arena!
Sounds like he's coming along really well...he's cute! What breed is he?
Good pics! And while I know it's frustrating having to ride on a long rein and wanting to ride on a short rein, trust me the long rein work WILL pay off! All this stretching will REALLY help his muscles stay limber so you CAN go back to a nice collected frame eventually.
Great job with the pictures! :)
I agree 100% that the long rein work may be frustrating but it is definitely necessary. Getting and keeping the muscles and tendons stretched and limber during this healing phase is essential. Hang in there!
gabby, he is a Swedish Warmblood.
The long rein work is good for me too, it makes me rely on my seat and legs and less on my rein.
Aw, I like long rein work. :) I like the mirror pictures!! It does make the arena look huge.
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