HOW MANY OF us have put ‘get fit’ at the top of our New Year's resolutions list — and stuck to it? You don't need to hit the gym every day to excel in the fitness stakes, and your horse doesn't either. Nevertheless, whatever you do, it can seem hard, but by putting in the work now you will reap the rewards when the warm weather comes around and you and your steed are fit for some fabulous riding fun. Whether you have a fun ride in mind, or are just excited to venture out on a new route, focusing on fitness during the remainder of the winter months and beyond will ensure that you are ready for every adventure the future holds.
It's time to plan
The best place to start a New Year plan is by sitting down and working out what you want to achieve. No matter where you want to end up, the starting point is always the same: walk.
“I'd recommend starting with a month of walk work,” says endurance rider and coach Rachael Claridge. “In
