Preventing Muscle Soreness in Horses – Tips for Faster Recovery

Introduction
Whether your horse is competing, training, or simply enjoying regular rides, muscle soreness can become a common issue. Just like human athletes, horses need proper care before and after exercise to prevent stiffness and discomfort.

The good news? With the right approach, you can keep your equine partner moving comfortably, reduce muscle fatigue, and enhance overall performance.

1. Start with a Proper Warm-Up

A thorough warm-up is one of the best ways to prevent muscle soreness and prepare your horse’s body for work.

• ✔ Start with 10–15 minutes of walking to loosen up joints and muscles.
• ✔ Gradually introduce trotting and lateral exercises to improve flexibility and circulation.
• ✔ Apply Draw It Out® Liniment to major muscle groups before riding to encourage blood flow and reduce stiffness.

💡 Pro Tip: A proper warm-up improves performance, prevents injuries, and helps muscles recover faster post-exercise.

2. Hydration & Nutrition for Muscle Support

Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for muscle function, recovery, and overall health.

• ✔ Water intake before and after exercise – Helps flush out toxins and prevents cramping.
• ✔ Electrolytes – Replenish minerals lost through sweat and maintain muscle balance.
• ✔ A diet rich in Omega-3s and amino acids – Supports muscle repair, reduces inflammation, and enhances recovery.

💡 Pro Tip: If your horse works in hot weather or sweats heavily, consider an electrolyte supplement to restore balance and prevent dehydration-related soreness.

3. Post-Workout Cooldown & Recovery

A proper cooldown helps muscles relax and prevents lactic acid buildup, which can lead to post-workout stiffness.

• ✔ Walk your horse for 10 minutes after exercise to help muscles transition from work to rest.
• ✔ Provide free-choice water and allow them to drink before feeding.
• ✔ Use cold therapy or Draw It Out® Liniment on legs and major muscle areas to reduce inflammation and soreness.

💡 Pro Tip: After intense workouts, apply ice boots or cold hose the legs before massaging in liniment for the best recovery results.

4. The Power of Liniment in Recovery

Liniment is a game-changer when it comes to reducing soreness, promoting circulation, and preventing stiffness.

• ✔ Apply Draw It Out® Liniment immediately after a ride to aid muscle recovery.
• ✔ Massage it into the back, shoulders, and legs for deeper relief.
• ✔ Use under standing wraps or add to a rinse for full-body relaxation and faster recovery.

💡 Pro Tip: For horses in heavy training, daily liniment application helps prevent muscle tightness and keeps them feeling fresh for the next ride.

Conclusion

Muscle soreness doesn’t have to be a routine part of your horse’s work! By implementing:

• ✔ A proper warm-up to prevent stiffness
• ✔ Hydration and muscle-supporting nutrition
• ✔ A structured cooldown for faster recovery
• ✔ Regular liniment therapy for soreness prevention

…you can keep your horse comfortable, healthy, and performing at their best!

🚀 Make Draw It Out® Liniment part of your daily care routine and ensure your equine athlete feels their best after every ride! 🐴✨