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careers by observing the results — both good and bad — of their horses . But what is the golden rule of training ? How can one find the perfect balance between intensity , duration and volume of preparation ? Should the focus be on more fast work or longer distances ? A research team from the University of Melbourne in Australia has studied these questions and published several papers in recent years . During the annual seminar organized by Racing Victoria ahead of the Inglis yearling sales in Melbourne , several authors of these studies presented their findings . One study , in particular , caught my attention : “ Training practices , speed and distances undertaken by Thoroughbred racehorses in Victoria , Australia ” ( Morrice-West et al ., 2019 ). This study highlights three major categories of training : low volume ( total distance covered ) combined with low intensity ( distance covered at a speed greater than 14s / 200m ), low volume but high intensity , or finally , high volume with high intensity . Unsurprisingly , this last approach carries the highest risk of musculoskeletal injuries . The study also emphasizes that increasing both volume and intensity simultaneously significantly amplifies the risk of injuries . The recommendation given is to first increase the total distance covered to build cardiovascular endurance , then gradually introduce faster exercises while temporarily reducing the distance . Once the horse has adapted to the speed , the distance can be increased again to reach competition goals . The study also highlights the importance of rest periods . The results show that short and frequent breaks are more beneficial than a single long rest period in the year . Furthermore , the highest risk of injury occurs when the horse returns to training after a break . While the cardiovascular system maintains its efficiency relatively well after a short rest , the musculoskeletal system requires more time to regain strength . The biological process of bone remodeling ( resorption and formation ) temporarily makes bones more fragile after stopping fast work . To prevent injuries , the general rule is to schedule a progressive return-to-training phase , lasting at least as long as the rest period , before reintroducing high-speed exercises . The ability to accurately track training parameters throughout preparation — particularly distances covered at different speeds and the volume of fast work — allows trainers to fine-tune strategies and optimize workload management . Longitudinal monitoring of these parameters , combined with daily cardiovascular tracking of the horse , helps adjust programs and minimize the risk of injury . The balance between vol- ume , intensity and recovery is the key to effective and safe training . Research conducted in Australia confirms that a gradual and controlled increase in workload is essential and that short , regular rest periods are more effective than a long annual break . By applying these principles , trainers can enhance not only their horses ’ performance but also their longevity in competition .
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DUBLIN RACING FESTIVAL : A TRIUMPH FOR FRENCH BREEDING
The Dublin Racing Festival , held at Leopardstown Racecourse on 1 and 2 February , may be a celebration of allthings Irish , but the event also represented a triumph for French breeding and training . Of the eight Grade 1 events run over the course of the two-day Festival , six were won by French-bred horses and Perceval Legallois added a further victory for Gallic breeding with a success in the Race And Stay At Leopardstown Handicap Hurdle ( Listed ).
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