How to Compete in Endurance Riding

Endurance riding is for hearty riders and horses that are in peak physical condition. It requires special determination and preparation from both horse and rider. The rewards can be great, so saddle up and follow the steps below to learn how to compete in endurance riding.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Well-conditioned horse
• Saddle, bridle, blankets and other tack
• Vehicle and trailer or other means of transportation
• Grooming supplies such as brush and comb, hoof pick and cleaning sponge
• Water and feed containers
• Feed
• Electrolytes for both you and your horse
• First aid kit, heart monitor and Easy Boots for emergencies
• People snacks
• Extra clothing
• Portable enclosure for your horse

1. Attend a ride to get a feel for the sport and it's requirements. Go to the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) website to find a list of scheduled rides in your area or check out bulletin boards at feed and tack stores.
2. Find a mentor or join a local club or Endurance Riding Association chapter to get more information.
3. Purchase a horse that is suited to this sport. Arabians, Appaloosas, Thoroughbreds and some Paint Horses can be good endurance horses, but the sport is open to all horse breeds. Horses must be at least four years old to compete in limited distance rides and five years old for longer rides.
4. Condition yourself and your horse by starting out on shorter rides and graduating to longer distances. Use guidelines on the AERC website to learn to measure heart rate and respiration to tell if your horse is in top condition. Plan to spend 2 to 4 months to get conditioned.
5. Feed your horse for optimum endurance. Horses need to eat hay or grass to equal two percent of their body weight every day. Find advice on feeding the performance horse at the All About Horses website.
6. Pay special attention to your horse's feet. Keep them trimmed and shod and carry emergency hoof covers on rides.
7. Read horse publications to find out where endurance contests are being held and plan your trips. Take plenty of snacks and water or electrolytes to keep yourself hydrated. Use saddlebags to hold extra gear, but not so much that it adds unnecessary weight.
8. Pace yourself and your horse and enjoy the scenery and the ride.

Tips & Warnings

• Start with limited distance rides (25 miles) and work up to advanced rides.
• Carry a canteen on your saddle with drinking water. Buy a saddle or blanket with built-in saddlebags to carry other gear.
• Be prepared to camp at the ride site the night before the ride so you and your horse will be rested and fresh.
• Take a class or read books about horse safety. Horses can be dangerous if not handled correctly.
• Be considerate of other riders and be a good sport.
• Check with your veterinarian before transporting horses across county or state lines. You may need brand and health inspection papers.