To Their Health Seven Tips on Equine Conditioning with Biomechanics Expert Dr. Hilary Clayton There are many important questions pertaining to equine conditioning and fitness as we all look forward to returning to work. Dr. Hilary Clayton recently shared some cautions and considerations in a Skype interview with Equine Guelph. Dr. Clayton is a veterinarian, researcher and horsewoman. For the past 40 years she has been conducting amazing research in the areas of equine biomechanics and conditioning programs for equine athletes. Dr. Clayton has also been a guest speaker in Equine Guelph’s online course offerings. 1. What are the differences between conditioning and training? • Training is the technical preparation of the athlete (learning the skills and movements they will need to perform in competition.) • Conditioning strengthens the horse, progressively making them fit and able. • The goal of conditioning is to maintain soundness while maximizing performance. 2. Considerations for horses that go from full work to just pasture turn-out? • A gradual decrease from full work to less days a week, lessening intensity is ideal. • Also, ideal that they stay in light work a day or two a week, however horses are resilient. • When workload decreases, diet decreases.
29 • The Sound Advocate • Issue 3, 2020
