Working them in the off season is more than training. It's also conditioning. They get pasture soft just like any other animal or person. I have a 5 mile route in the hills near here with a 900' elevation gain. Starting in about May, I take them on it at least twice a week. As they get in shape, I need it more than they do. I add sandbags to the panniers as they get in shape until they're packing 80lb each. I also put weight in my day pack.
