Post-Competition Recovery for Horses
Competition days demand a lot from your horse—from long hours in the trailer to the intensity of peak performance. Once the show is over, your horse deserves the same level of care and attention during recovery as they received in preparation. The good news? A thoughtful post-competition routine can dramatically reduce soreness, prevent injury, and set your horse up for future success.
Step 1: Cool Down Gradually
After competition, walk your horse for at least 15 minutes to gradually bring their heart rate down. Sudden stops can cause lactic acid to build up in the muscles, leading to stiffness and soreness later.
Step 2: Apply Draw It Out® Liniment or CryoGel
Target sore, tight, or high-use areas (legs, back, shoulders) with our Draw It Out® High Potency Liniment or cooling CryoGel. These formulas are designed to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Ease muscle soreness
- Support circulation and recovery
- Be safe under wraps or tack
Step 3: Hydrate and Replenish
Always ensure your horse has access to clean water. Adding Hydro-Lyte™ 5G to their post-event routine can help replenish lost electrolytes and encourage proper hydration.
Step 4: Wrap and Support
After applying liniment, use standing wraps overnight to support circulation and reduce swelling. This is especially important if your horse has a long trailer ride home or competed in multiple events.
Step 5: Allow Rest and Monitor for Signs
Give your horse time off from intense work. Monitor for:
- Swelling
- Lameness
- Heat in the legs or joints
If anything seems off, consult with your vet before resuming training.
Help Them Bounce Back Faster
Draw It Out® products are crafted to support your horse from warm-up through cooldown. With safe, naturally derived ingredients and formulas trusted by pros, you can feel confident that your horse is getting the recovery support they deserve.
