Why the Cool Down Matters

Too often, we focus on the ride—but forget the recovery. That’s where small habits make a big difference. A proper cool down helps flush lactic acid, prevents stiffness, and protects your horse’s soft tissues from delayed onset soreness.

Whether you’re riding for 10 minutes or hauling all weekend, your horse needs time and tools to recover.

Step 1: Walk It Out

Don’t just hop off and tie up. Spend 10–15 minutes walking under saddle or in hand to let your horse’s heart rate and breathing normalize. This encourages muscle relaxation and helps reduce inflammation from hard stops or sharp turns.

Pro Tip: Use this time to check for heat or swelling in the legs, back, and shoulders.

Step 2: Hydrate From the Inside Out

Offer fresh, clean water—ideally slightly warmer in cold weather. Electrolytes help too, especially after long or sweaty rides.

Hydration Boost Tip: Apply a topical electrolyte like Hydro-Lyte with GastroCell to help support transdermal hydration and recovery without upsetting a sensitive stomach.

Step 3: Targeted Topical Recovery

Your horse just gave you their all. Return the favor with topical care that supports circulation and tissue health.

• Use Draw It Out® 16oz Gel on joints and tendons
• Spray Draw It Out® RTU on large muscle groups (back, shoulders, stifles)
• For deeper soreness, apply MasterMudd™ EquiBrace™ and wrap as needed

All three formulas are show-safe, non-tingling, and wrap-compatible.

Step 4: Legs Matter Most

Horses bear their entire athletic effort on four legs—don’t skip 'em.

• Check legs for heat, swelling, or irritation
• Use liniment and wraps as needed
• Cool legs gradually if overheated (no ice directly on the skin)

Reminder: swelling the next morning usually means the cool down was rushed.

Step 5: Stall Setup or Trailer Rest

Post-ride recovery doesn’t stop when you unsaddle. If you’re hauling, make sure the trailer is ventilated and padded. If you’re at home or stabled, consider stall fans and soft footing. Watch for restlessness or pawing—signs of lingering soreness.

Final Thoughts: Real Riders Recover Right

You don’t need fancy tech or expensive boots to cool down your horse. You just need consistency, intention, and the right tools.

Draw It Out® exists to make recovery easier, safer, and more effective—whether you’re on the ranch, in the ring, or under the Friday night lights.

“Because the ride doesn’t end when the run does.”