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Open Arena

From April through the end of September, we encourage everyone to utilize the arena in Rothwell Park. The arena is surrounded by trails. Trails to the west of the arena are open to horses.

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Below are some of our favorite methods of warming up, drills, and other useful training tips.

Warm Up Routine

Walk two laps around the arena each direction.

Trot two laps around the arena each direction.

Lope two laps around the arena each direction.

Cool Down

1. Walk your horse for at least 10-15 minutes.

2. Untack in the shade. The south end of the arena has access to a hose and plenty of shade.

3. Offer a drink. Horses can drink a gallon within the 30 minutes of the end of exercise.

Drinking water doesn't cause colic. If you are concerned about your horse drinking too fast, offer small amounts every few minutes until they have had their fill. If the work has been very hard or the weather is hot, a bucket with an electrolyte supplement might be helpful.

4. Hose or sponge off your horse

5. Cold weather tip: Use a cooler

If you are cooling off in cold weather, use a cooler to help your horse with the evaporation of sweat.

6. Hand graze

Spend some time with your horse and hand graze or brush them down.

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Proper recovery signs

Heart rate should be fewer than 64 beats per minute.

Rectal temperature should be 103 degrees F within 10 minutes.

Breathing pattern returns to normal.

Chest feels cool to the touch.

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