Getting your horse properly fit after winter

[Baybaybay765]

For various reasons, I gave my horses the fall/winter off this year. I don’t mind because the time off was good for them, but now I’m planning out my goals for this coming year and am wondering about how to properly bring them back. Both of mine are in their teens so I’m keeping in mind they might not bounce back as quick as a younger horse.

My thought is to use this time to get a really good proper baseline of fitness. We do lower level eventing and dressage.

Anyone willing to share what they do?

Right now my plan is to start just walking on the rare night days until the weather gets better.
Thanks!

[Pico_Banana]

Jec Ballou is always my go to for this:

Spring Conditioning Your Horse

[Mouse_amp_Bay]

Equine Canada did a return to work guidelines after consulting with a number of professionals (vets, trainers etc.). Wonderful concrete information.

Link here.

[RedHorses]

Look for Endurance legging up programs as well. Many Endurance riders give their horses time off in the winter.