Horse glossary
Fitness
Strength and stamina for work.
In Spanish: Condición
What it means
Fitness is the strength, stamina, and flexibility a horse or rider needs to do their work comfortably. A fit horse recovers its normal breathing quickly after exercise, and a fit rider can hold their position without tiring. Fitness is built gradually with regular, sensible exercise.
Why it matters
A horse asked to work harder than its fitness allows is more likely to get tired, sore, or injured. Matching the work to the horse's fitness, and building it up slowly, keeps riding safe and fun.
Example
Fitness improves with safe, steady practice.
Try this
Increase one thing at a time, such as the length of a ride or the amount of trotting, over several weeks. Include a warm-up and cool-down every time, and give horses rest days.
Common mistake
A horse coming back from time off may still look fit but has lost stamina. Start with shorter, easier rides and build back up rather than picking up where you left off.