Got away with a horned saddle, boots and jeans, and no heart rate monitor or electrolyte supplements. Might have to take it up a notch and get serious if we want to do a real ride this fall.
I agree with your stepping up, it's part of the fun.
Heart rate monitors have become a later stage item in my program. I feel that it is more important and advantageous to listen to the horse and learn the horse, before introducing the HRM. Electronics (even GPS for me) have a funny way of messing with our relationship with the horse.
Electrolytes (with correct chemistry, probably not found at your local farm store) and calcium are a must. Again, you need to learn your horse. It is not fun for either of you when they run low.
YMMV, but these things are part of our learning curve.
Thanks for the update. please give us a rundown if you do another one so we can ride vicariously with you.
+1!
