Equi-Core System -- what's your program?

[fizzyfuzzybuzzy]

I have an Equi-Core system, and really love the concept of it. My horse is an ex-carriage DHH, so he’s fine with things wrapped around him, AND he could use the encouragement of keeping his hocks underneath him and lifting his back. My question for those of you who have used it with success – how often and long did you start with? I feel like it’s tougher than it looks to work in one, so I don’t want to do too much too fast? My horse is reasonably fit (works 5 days a week, plus a hack day) and is sound. Not a rehab per say, but definitely using/building muscles he isn’t used to using/are weak.

Thoughts?

[joiedevie99]

Start with forward walk in hand or on the lunge, 10 minutes- 2-3 times a week. Work up to lunging in it - 10 minute warm-up without the bands, 10-15 minute work time with the bands on, then a few minutes of work with the bands off, then a cool down. Then try it for riding with the same pattern - warm-up without bands, add then for 10-15 minutes, then remove them for the last few minutes of work and cool-down.

[no.stirrups]

I use the Thermatex Pro-Core which is similar. I like to alternate Pro-Core sessions with side-reins and ground poles for the first weeks of use on the longe, then as the horse gets stronger use them together with side-reins or ground poles.
It’s definitely a tough work out, so err on the side of not enough vs. too much.