WEIGHTLESS TRAINING OF THOROUGHBRED HORSES

Several years ago, my brother and I devised what is called “Truck Training” for the exercising of a single thoroughbred horse without having weight on its back.   This design proved to be economically sound and also extremely beneficial to the overall health of the animal compared to the status quo exercise regime of heavy gallopers.  

The days of using “Truck Training” on farms or B tracks is over.  Recognized race tracks would benefit significantly from this method where the driver becomes the trainer, jockey and galloper combined. 

The horse is tethered to the device attached to a ½ ton truck on the driver’s side.   Its lead ropes have safety break away snaps and acts like reins keeping the horse’s head and legs straight.   Peering into the mirror the driver can determine how the horse is traveling. 

The driver has access to the lead allowing for total control over the horse and determine how the horse traveling. Horses can be trot lightly, do a 2-minute lick or work up to forty-five miles per hour without any weight on their back.  Acting like a tread mill, “Truck Training” also builds up the hind end muscles of a horse.   

When the horse is working hard, the truck and horse are moving in tandem.  You are also able to feel when the horse tires and then back off the gas.  The driver trains himself just the same as a galloper.  It’s a learning experience. This device is safe but only if the driver/trainer knows what he is doing.  Training instructions can be supplied to the driver.   

My training experience relies on a personal bond with the horse and allows me to ascertain the horses’ personality to determine if they want to work or has problem. This system virtually eliminates Bucked Shins in 2 year olds.  

“Truck Training” is so economical that 25 horses can be exercised in three hours and accomplished with less manpower as other existing exercising routines.  All that is needed is a driver, mechanical walker, groom and stall person.   

Bill Allen  

SADLY BILL PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 29TH 2020
Received many Trainer of the Year Awards at Trout Springs Race Track in the 80s and 90s. ​