Trotting in hand for exercise - useful or not?

Question

I always have to schedule my run after or before riding. I thought it might be more efficient if I sometimes trotted the horse in hand for about 2 miles - then we'd both get a little cardio. She trots at a pace that is pretty fast for me to maintain for 2 miles. I realize this means running in boots. Is this crazy? A little background: the mare is an OTTB who is both out of shape and underweight. I want to work with her but not slow down the process of putting weight on her by burning too many calories.

Update:

Update: as it turns out, my gal jogs at an 11 min./mile pace. Even in jeans and boots (I didn't want to endanger my toes) 2 miles with her is doable and enough work for her. I might consider the suggestion to let her gain a few more pounds before jogging more.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

You should put on a halter and then attach the lead rope and tie it in a loose knot around the horse's neck. Then put the bridle over that and make any adjustments necessary to make it fit comfortably. So if the bridle breaks in some unfortunate event you can still lead your horse back with their halter. Also bring a cell phone. 

But other than that is should be fine. And if you need to change to a slightly harsher bit that should be okay. I know if I was going to jog my horse for two miles she'd need a stronger bit because she'd get really excited which I could handle if I was riding but since your on the ground you will need more control to make up for not riding.

I find horse's tend to crowd my space when I lead them and so I just reach around (without turning around) with my left hand and give them a light slap on the shoulder and they move over some. Just a tip in case your horse is the same way.

Julia · Answer

Yes, it's good exercise.  
A lot of fancy top show horses never get ANY turnout.  They get trotted in hand for around an hour for their daily exercises.

Make sure you bring a cell phone and a spare halter (or an extra breakaway strap for your halter) with you, as well as a hoof pick and potentially some bottled water for you.  You could easily strap everything to the horse if you don't want to carry it.

Anonymous · Answer

Running is a great idea, and you could probably do it in sneakers as long as you watch your feet. Just bring a cell phone and a spare halter and lead, and make sure you plan your route sort of away from traffic. I'd wait a few weeks though until she has put on more weight.

Horse.Featherz · Answer

At my age I would give myself a heart attack trying to keep up with my horse for two blocks let alone two miles.  As slow as I run, my horse would probably have to be in a greatly elevated passage to keep from leaving me behind.  I am not sure either of us could keep that up for two miles.  But be my guest.  I certainly admire your endurance and tolerance for punishment.

Happy Trails
HorseFeatherZ

foxhunter1949 · Answer

You have a lot more energy than me! LOL
I would have on roller blades and long rein the horse so she is pulling me!!!!

She should be fine, and if I were to run I would wear trainers and just keep my toes out of her reach!

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Trotting in hand for exercise - useful or not?

5 Answers