Real Rider Resource
Cold Weather Muscle & Leg Care: Prepping Senior Horses for Winter Work
4–6 minute read • For the long‑mile partners who’ve earned the hay and miles
Your older horse may still carry you down the trail or around the arena while the frost settles in—but they don’t ride like a youngster anymore. Cold ground, stiff muscles, and loaded legs can sneak up on them. Here’s your no‑BS routine to keep circulation flowing, joints loose, and comfort high when the thermometer drops.
Step 1: Warm Up With Intention (10‑12 mins)
Start with a steady hand‑walk or light trot for 5‑10 minutes—ideally on soft footing, not hard frozen ground. Then bring your senior into light work: long bending lines, shoulder‑in at the walk, moderate trot if sound. The goal isn’t speed—it’s temperature, circulation, and looseness.
Step 2: Apply the Right Gel Before Tack (2‑3 mins)
On clean, dry legs and hocks, apply Draw It Out® 16 oz High Potency Horse Liniment Gel. A thin, even layer. No hot sting, no fuss. When it’s cold, this supports circulation and creates a layer of comfort under tack or boots.
Tip: Cold weather reduces blood flow through legs. This gel is your circulation‑booster without sensation—so your horse stays comfortable, not distracted.
Step 3: Mid‑Ride Check & Light Massage
Halfway through your ride (or session), walk a few minutes and check legs for tightness or cool spots. If they feel loaded, pause and lightly massage the gaskin, tendons and cannon. Cold tends to hide fatigue—catch it early.
Step 4: Post‑Ride Recovery Routine
When you finish, cool them down slowly. Then re‑apply the same gel to key joints (hocks, stifles, fetlocks) and follow with light stable turnout or wrap for 30‑60 minutes. Older horses benefit from that gentle “flush” overnight.
When to Use This Routine
- Temps under 40 °F / ~4 °C and ride frequency is moderate or high
- Senior horses returning from layups or time off during cold season
- When ground is frozen, hard‑packed or uneven and you want to prevent load build‑up
- Before day‑two rides when no full warm up will happen
Quick FAQ
Is it okay to wrap right after applying the gel?
Yes — once the gel has absorbed (~1‑2 minutes), you can apply polos or boots. The gel is designed to stay clean, dry and wrap‑friendly.
How often should I apply during winter riding weeks?
Every ride, for sure. On heavy days or older legs, apply pre‑ride and post‑ride. The circulation support builds up.
Can younger horses use this too?
Absolutely — but the routine is optimized for senior partners whose legs take more work and less recovery time.
Note: This routine supports comfort and circulation—but it’s not a substitute for veterinary care. If your horse shows persistent heat, swelling or lameness, consult your vet.
