Conditioning After a Horse Break
Whether your horse has been off due to injury, winter rest, or downtime between seasons, bringing them back into work requires a careful, step-by-step approach. Rushing conditioning can lead to strain or reinjury—but with the right plan and support, your horse can return to peak form safely and confidently.
1. Start Slow and Build Consistency
Begin with light work like hand-walking or longeing at the walk. Gradually introduce trot sets and increase intensity over 4–6 weeks. Keep sessions short and focus on consistency rather than pushing hard right away.
2. Focus on Muscular and Tendon Support
Horses lose muscle and tendon elasticity during breaks. Incorporate ground poles, gentle hills, and transitions to rebuild strength and coordination.
3. Support With Liniment During the Process
Daily use of Draw It Out® Liniment helps reduce muscle soreness, support circulation, and ease inflammation as your horse reconditions. Apply pre-ride to warm up and post-ride for recovery.
4. Watch for Signs of Overexertion
Monitor for swelling, heat, or stiffness—especially in legs, stifles, and back. If your horse seems sore or hesitant, scale back intensity and allow more rest between sessions.
5. Nutrition & Hydration Matter
Support muscle rebuilding with high-quality protein and maintain hydration—especially in warmer months. Hydro-Lyte™ Equine Electrolytes can help replenish lost minerals during reconditioning work.
Recommended Products for Conditioning Support:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a reconditioning period last?
It depends on the length of the break. A horse off for several months may need 6–8 weeks of gradual work before returning to full performance.
Is liniment safe for daily use?
Yes, Draw It Out® Liniment is safe for daily application and won’t irritate skin. It can be used pre-ride, post-ride, and under wraps.
Should I use standing wraps during reconditioning?
Standing wraps with liniment can help support legs after workouts, especially if your horse tends to stock up or get stiff.
