How should I ease my horse into spring fitness?

Start with groundwork and stretching, gradually adding hill work and intervals over several weeks to safely build muscle and stamina.

When should I use liniment in spring conditioning?

Apply Draw It Out® Liniment after workouts to support muscle recovery, soothe soreness, and prevent tightness—especially on warming spring days.

How long does spring conditioning take?

Allow 6–8 weeks for your horse to safely rebuild fitness. Increase workload gradually and monitor for soreness or fatigue.

Spring Conditioning for Horses: Safe Fitness for the New Season

Spring is the best time to bring your horse back into shape—without rushing it. Let’s map out a smart, injury-free conditioning plan that builds stamina, strength, and soft tissues the right way—complete with grounding, hill work, interval training, and recovery tactics like Draw It Out® Liniment.

1. Start Slow with Groundwork & Stretching

Begin with light groundwork and stretching—10–15 minutes of walking to warm up muscles, followed by light lateral and pole work. Never go from zero to full speed—your horse's body needs time to adapt.

2. Build Fitness Gradually with Hills & Intervals

Introduce two to three sessions of hill walking per week. Moderate inclines boost strength and fitness while minimizing injury risk. Use interval training: alternate walking and trotting to safely increase cardiovascular capacity.

3. End Each Session with Recovery

Finish workouts with cooling down and liniment application. Massage Draw It Out® Liniment into muscles to aid recovery, reduce soreness, and help your horse feel fresh for the next day.

4. Monitor Comfort & Adjust Workload

Check for heat, stiffness, or changes in gait after rides. Adjust workload—resting or switching to light turnout—for recovery. Remember, conditioning takes 6–8 weeks to build lasting fitness.

5. Sample 6-Week Spring Conditioning Plan

Weeks 1–2: Light groundwork; stretching; walk/trot intervals (3 days/week); daily liniment massage.
Weeks 3–4: Add hill walking sessions twice a week; increase interval durations; continue recovery work.
Weeks 5–6: Begin light cantering and longer interval sessions; continue liniment post-ride; monitor for fatigue.

Gradual, intentional progress is how you build sustainable spring fitness—without overtaxing your horse. Let’s ride into spring stronger and safer.

Ready for better recovery? Keep a bottle of Draw It Out® Liniment handy to help your horse feel their best after every ride.