What’s the best way to train a horse for endurance in RDR2?

Training a horse for endurance in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for long-distance travel and maintaining stamina during intense gameplay moments. Endurance determines how long your horse can gallop or sprint before tiring, and improving it requires a combination of bonding, proper care, and strategic gameplay. Here’s a detailed guide to help you maximize your horse’s endurance.\n\nFirst, focus on bonding with your horse. Bonding levels range from 1 to 4, and each level increases your horse’s stamina and health cores. To bond with your horse, spend time riding it, brushing it, feeding it, and calming it when it gets spooked. For example, patting your horse (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) while riding or brushing it (hold L2 or LT and select the brush) will increase bonding. Feeding your horse hay, wild carrots, or other horse provisions also helps. Bonding is the foundation for improving endurance, so prioritize this early in the game.\n\nNext, choose the right horse breed. Some breeds naturally have higher stamina and endurance stats. For example, the Arabian, Missouri Fox Trotter, and Turkoman are excellent choices for endurance. These horses can be found in specific locations or purchased from stables. The White Arabian, for instance, can be tamed in the wild near Lake Isabella, while the Missouri Fox Trotter is available at the Scarlet Meadows Stable in Chapter 4. Investing in a high-stamina breed will make endurance training easier.\n\nTo train your horse’s endurance, engage in activities that require sustained movement. Galloping across long distances, such as from Valentine to Saint Denis, will gradually improve your horse’s stamina. However, avoid overworking your horse by monitoring its stamina core. If the core depletes completely, your horse will slow down or stop. To prevent this, use stamina-replenishing items like horse stimulants or wild carrots. These can be crafted or found in the wild, and they provide an instant boost to your horse’s stamina.\n\nAnother effective method is to use the calm-down mechanic while riding. When your horse’s stamina is low, press the calm button (L3 or LS) repeatedly to restore a small amount of stamina. This technique is especially useful during long rides or chases. For example, if you’re being pursued by lawmen or predators, calming your horse can help you maintain speed and avoid exhaustion.\n\nProper care is also crucial for endurance training. Keep your horse clean by brushing it regularly, especially after riding through mud or water. A dirty horse will lose stamina faster. Additionally, ensure your horse is well-fed and rested. Visit stables to purchase better saddles and stirrups, which can significantly boost stamina and reduce drain. The Improved or Hooded Stirrups, for instance, provide a 35% stamina drain reduction, making them ideal for endurance training.\n\nFinally, practice patience and consistency. Endurance training takes time, and you’ll need to repeat these steps regularly to see significant improvements. Avoid pushing your horse too hard, as this can lead to injuries or slower progress. Instead, focus on gradual improvements by combining bonding, care, and strategic riding.\n\nIn summary, training a horse for endurance in RDR2 involves bonding, choosing the right breed, engaging in sustained activities, using stamina-replenishing items, and providing proper care. By following these steps, you’ll have a reliable and enduring horse ready for any challenge in the game.