Real Rider Resource
Why Horses Get Stiff In Cold Weather
If your horse steps out of the stall on a cold morning feeling short-strided, tight, or a little cranky, you’re not imagining it. Cold weather really does change how muscles and connective tissue feel — just like it does in people.
What Riders Notice First
- Shorter steps leaving the stall
- Stiffer transitions or reluctance to bend
- More bracing through the topline
- Slow to warm up compared to summer
Winter stiffness often improves with a thoughtful warm up.
Uneven stiffness or pain that doesn’t improve — that’s a vet call.
Why It Happens
- Cold muscles contract and stay tight longer
- Less winter turnout = less natural movement
- Older horses feel temperature swings more
- Previous strains become more noticeable
What Riders Can Do Right Away
- Give 10–15 minutes of relaxed walking before real work
- Use big circles and long-and-low to warm the topline
- Let your horse stretch their neck and ribcage
- End rides with a slow, intentional cool down
How Draw It Out® Fits In
Many riders use Draw It Out® 16oz Gel on the back, hips, and big muscle groups before and after rides for easier warm up. Draw It Out® Concentrate is used in post-work spray routines. CryoSpray Cooling Body Brace helps after intense work or weather swings. MasterMudd™ is used only for deeper soft tissue areas under professional guidance.
Want the full winter mobility guide?
Learn the full warm-up routine, safety checks, and red flags.
