Winter Horse Warm‑Up Time

Cold muscles don’t respond on a summer schedule.

In winter, horses need more time to prepare for work. Lower temperatures reduce muscle elasticity, slow circulation, and delay joint lubrication—making rushed warm‑ups one of the most common contributors to winter stiffness.

Extra minutes matter.

What Cold Does to Muscle and Soft Tissue

Temperature directly affects movement.

• Muscles contract more slowly when cold
• Connective tissue becomes less elastic
• Joints require more motion to lubricate

Without adequate warm‑up, tissues resist rather than respond.

Why Winter Warm‑Ups Need to Be Longer

Time replaces temperature.

In cold weather, gradual movement is how the body safely transitions from rest to work. Shortened warm‑ups force muscles to load before they’re ready, increasing tension and uneven movement.

This is where Prehabilitation becomes essential—preparing tissues before stress is applied.

Signs a Horse Isn’t Warmed Up Yet

• Short or guarded stride
• Reluctance to bend
• Resistance in transitions
• Improvement only after extended work

These aren’t training issues—they’re temperature issues.

Build an Effective Winter Warm‑Up

Structure beats speed.

• Start with extended walking
• Allow gradual increases in intensity
• Focus on forward, relaxed movement
• Give joints time before demanding work

Ten extra minutes can change the entire ride.

Support Circulation Before You Ask for Effort

Preparation doesn’t stop at movement.

A sensation‑free liniment gel supports circulation and soft tissue comfort without heat or cooling—ideal when cold muscles need calm, steady support.

Draw It Out® Liniment Gel fits naturally into pre‑ride grooming or leg prep, reinforcing winter warm‑up routines.

Areas That Benefit Most From Longer Warm‑Ups

• Back and loins
• Hips and hindquarters
• Shoulders and neck

These areas carry workload and feel cold first.

Create a Winter‑Specific Prep Plan

Seasonal changes require seasonal routines.

If you’re unsure how to adjust warm‑ups and care for winter riding, the Draw It Out® Solution Finder helps align preparation with temperature, workload, and age.

You can also explore the Horse Liniment Collection to support circulation and comfort throughout winter training.

Warm‑Up Time Is Not Wasted Time

Winter rewards patience.

When horses are properly warmed and supported, they move more freely, stay more comfortable, and finish work stronger—no matter how cold the day starts.

Modern performance. Proven calm.