The Secret to a Great Ride: Why Pre-Ride Prep is Non-Negotiable

Introduction

The secret to a great ride starts long before your foot hits the stirrup. Proper pre-ride preparation not only enhances your horse’s performance but also protects muscles, joints, and tendons from strain or injury.

Whether you’re training, trail riding, or competing, a solid warm-up routine is key to setting your horse up for success and longevity.

1. Why Pre-Ride Prep Matters

A good warm-up increases blood flow, loosens muscles, and prepares joints for work. Skipping it? That’s when your horse is more prone to strains, soreness, and even long-term damage.

✅ Benefits of a Proper Warm-Up:
✔ Better flexibility and range of motion
✔ Reduced risk of injury
✔ Improved mental focus and responsiveness

💡 Pro Tip: A horse that’s mentally relaxed and physically prepared will perform more willingly and confidently.

2. Build a Consistent Warm-Up Routine

Keep your warm-up simple but effective. The goal is to gradually increase intensity while loosening up muscles and joints.

✅ Your Go-To Warm-Up Plan:
✔ 5-10 minutes of walking to increase circulation and loosen joints.
✔ Add slow trotting or lateral work to loosen shoulders and hips.
✔ Incorporate stretching exercises like long-and-low work to relax the topline and promote stretch.

💡 Pro Tip: Tailor your warm-up to your horse’s age, fitness level, and the type of work you plan to do.

3. Boost Results with Draw It Out® Liniment

Supercharge your warm-up routine with Draw It Out® Liniment. It’s designed to increase circulation and reduce stiffness, helping muscles prepare for work faster.

✅ How to Use Liniment Pre-Ride:
✔ Rub into shoulders, back, and legs to increase blood flow.
✔ Great for cold days or before intense work sessions.
✔ Perfect for senior or performance horses who may need extra help loosening up.

💡 Pro Tip: Make liniment part of your daily prep routine to help your horse start every ride comfortable and ready to move.

4. Monitor Your Horse’s Body Language

Every horse is different—watch closely during your warm-up for signs they need more prep time.

✅ Signs Your Horse Needs More Warm-Up:
✔ Head tossing or hollowing the back
✔ Short, choppy strides
✔ Resistance to bending or moving forward

💡 Adjust as Needed: Some days your horse may need longer warm-up periods—listen to what their body is telling you.

A solid warm-up routine paired with Draw It Out® Liniment is the foundation of every great ride.

✅ Protect your horse’s muscles
✅ Prevent soreness
✅ Set the tone for peak performance

🐎 Prep right. Ride strong. Recover better. Make Draw It Out® Liniment part of your pre-ride ritual and feel the difference every time you saddle up.

🚀 Ready to support your horse this spring?

Grab your Draw It Out® Liniment and let’s make this your horse’s best season yet! 💪🐎