Pre‑Ride Warm‑Up for Horses: Prevent Injuries & Maximize Performance

Introduction
The secret to a great ride starts long before your foot hits the stirrup. Pre‑ride preparation is not optional—it’s the foundation for performance, readiness, and injury prevention. A smart warm‑up routine gets your horse physically loosened and mentally engaged, setting the tone for the rest of the ride.

1. Why Pre‑Ride Prep Matters

A proper warm‑up increases blood flow, loosens muscles, and preps joints for work. Skip this step and your horse is more prone to strains, stiffness, and discomfort.

• Better flexibility and range of motion
• Lower risk of injury
• Improved focus and responsiveness

Pro Tip: A mentally calm and physically primed horse performs with confidence and connection.

2. Build a Consistent Warm‑Up Routine

Keep things simple and effective—start slow and build through each phase of motion.

• Start with 5–10 minutes of walking to increase circulation and loosen muscles.
• Add slow trot or lateral exercises to mobilize joints and engage the core.
• Include long‑and‑low stretching to relax and lengthen the topline.

Pro Tip: Tailor your approach based on your horse’s age, workload, and the day's plan.

3. Boost Results with Draw It Out® Liniment

Want to turbocharge your warm-up? Apply Draw It Out® Liniment before mounting. It helps stimulate circulation, reduce joint stiffness, and warm muscles fast.

• Rub into shoulders, back, and legs
• Perfect for chilly mornings or intense workouts
• Especially helpful for older or tight horses

Pro Tip: Make liniment part of your routine to keep your horse loose, ready, and comfortable from the start.

4. Read Their Body Language

Each horse has unique needs. Watch for signals that they need more prep time:

• Head tossing or hollow back
• Short, choppy strides
• Resistance to bending or forward motion

When these signs appear, slow down, give them more time, and ride smarter.

With the right warm-up routine and help from Draw It Out® Liniment, you're laying the groundwork for smoother rides, faster performance, and fewer rubs, strains, or stalls. Saddle up—you’re ready to ride stronger.

Unlock better rides, every time—make Draw It Out® Liniment part of your pre‑ride arsenal.