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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Assess the physiological and structural adaptations of the musculoskeletal system of horses to conditioning
   • Identify the anatomical and physiological effect of conditioning regimes on adaptations in major body systems of horses
   • Assess structural differences in physical appearance and muscling between conditioned and unconditioned horses
   • Determine strategies and techniques to use for conditioning horses
2. Assess changes to the cardiovascular and respiratory systems in response to conditioning
   • Arrange for blood tests to be taken and analysed for indicators of fitness and response to training, in consultation with veterinary experts
   • Use heart rate monitors or stethoscopes, using safe horse handling techniques, to evaluate horse fitness and response to training
   • Monitor and record heart rate pre- and post-exercise to determine the impact of exercise and competition, and to track changes in fitness
   • Measure and record respiratory rates following exercise to evaluate the impact of exercise and track changes in fitness
   • Investigate training and conditioning techniques to improve lung function and gas exchange efficiency, and apply where appropriate
3. Monitor and evaluate physiological outcomes of conditioning and exercise programs
   • Determine and document conditioning and fitness goals
   • Monitor and adapt program on a regular basis to ensure short- and long-term goals are achieved
   • Develop and implement a training and conditioning program to achieve required physiological adaptations
   • Identify and manage exercise-related illness and injury
4. Evaluate contribution of feed sources on energy production in exercising horses
   • Evaluate nutrient sources for their potential contribution to the energy needs of the horse relative to exercise regime, intensity and duration
   • Evaluate nutritional supplements suitable for inclusion in the diet of horses undergoing a fitness program
5. Manage fatigue in horses
   • Identify causes of fatigue in exercising horses and develop measures to prevent or manage fatigue during training and competition
   • Identify the signs and effects of fatigue, and develop measures to minimise harm to the horse
6. Monitor and manage thermoregulation efficiency in exercising horses
   • Develop and implement strategies to prevent over-heating during the training and competition schedule
   • Identify the signs of over-heating in horses and take appropriate and rapid measures to provide relief
   • Ensure that horses are kept appropriately hydrated during exercise, travel and competition
   • Identify the signs of dehydration in horses and take appropriate and rapid measures to provide relief
7. Manage spelling and resumption of work in performance horses
   • Incorporate planned periods of rest into the design of training and competition schedules
   • Arrange rest or spelling periods to minimise loss of fitness
   • Develop and implement strategies to manage the transition from work to spelling
   • Monitor the health and welfare of horses being spelled