15 Ways To Maximize Your Endurance
- Drink before you're thirsty.
- Avoid dehydration-induced fatigue by drinking before, during and after rides.
- On a warm day, drink at least 1 litre of liquid per hour.
- Consider using sports drinks - dilated by half with water. Their sugar content can help replenish calories while quenching your thirst.
- Eat carbohydrate-rich meals (pasta, rice, etc.) during the 3 days before the event. Have fruit, oatmeal, cereal and bread for breakfast
- Don't eat foods high in sugar just before a ride because your body's insulin response may cause weakness and dizziness.
- During the ride, eat before you're hungry. Bananas, dates and cookies with fruit are excellent.
- Eat lightly, but steadily, if possible. Don't stuff yourself at stops.
- Ride properly. Sit up straight. Stay balanced and light on your horse.
- Divide the ride into segments and prepare a strategy for each.
- If fatigue sets in, don't dwell on the miles remaining. Instead, concentrate on your form, your horse's efficiency of motion and drinking and eating adequately. Rest if necessary, but don't stop for more than 10 minutes.
- Be prepared for the trail. Before the ride and at vet checks, ask about the trail ahead.
- Wear comfortable cloths. Wear a hat to combat sun stroke. Wear sun glasses to protect your eyes and reduce fatigue from glare.
- Ride with a friend who has a similar time goal. The companionship and conversation will help the miles pass more quickly.
- When the going gets tough, tell yourself, "I can do it. Other riders have done this before and I can succeed too."
