What causes muscle soreness in horses?

Overexertion, poor warm-up or cool-down, and sudden workload increases are common causes of equine muscle soreness.

How do I prevent muscle soreness after riding?

Warm up slowly, cool down properly, and use circulation-supporting liniments post-ride.

Can liniment help horse muscle recovery?

Yes. Show-safe liniments like Draw It Out® Gel can be massaged into large muscle groups to reduce stiffness and support faster recovery.

Prevent Muscle Soreness in Horses | Draw It Out®

October 7, 2025

Real Rider Resource

Prevent Muscle Soreness in Horses

5-minute read • Updated for training recovery

Muscle soreness slows progress and frustrates both horse and rider. But with the right care, you can prevent stiffness and keep your horse comfortable after work.

Pro tip: soreness tomorrow starts with how you cool down today.

Simple Prevention Routine

Warm Up Gradually — Start each ride with 10 minutes of walk and stretching exercises.
Cool Down Thoroughly — Always walk your horse until breathing and heart rate return to normal.
Apply Liniment — Massage Draw It Out® 16oz Gel into large muscle groups (back, loins, hindquarters) to reduce stiffness.
Hydrate & Feed Well — Proper nutrition and hydration support muscle repair.
Check for Irritation — Use Rapid Relief Restorative Cream on any tack rubs or skin issues to avoid secondary soreness.

Why Show-Safe Matters

Horses in competition need daily recovery care. Show-safe liniments let you support muscles without worrying about compliance issues. Learn more in our deep dive: Liniments with Purpose – Show-Safe Rider’s Guide.

Quick FAQ

Do all horses get sore?

Any horse can, especially after harder work or changes in routine. Prevention is easier than treatment.

Is soreness always bad?

Mild soreness signals muscles are adapting, but persistent or severe soreness should be addressed quickly.

What if my horse is already sore?

Use light exercise, massage, and safe liniment application to help. For persistent soreness, consult a vet.

Read: Show-Safe Liniment Guide Shop: 16oz Gel

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Draw it Out® Complete Equine Performance® Bundles | Total Horse Recovery Kits

Draw It Out® 64oz Gel – High Potency Horse Liniment for Deep Relief

Draw It Out® 128oz Concentrate Horse Liniment — The Barn Essential

Draw It Out® 16oz High Potency Horse Liniment Gel – Powerful, Natural Relief

Draw It Out® 32oz Horse Liniment Concentrate – Spray, Wrap, or Soak for Fast Equine Relief

Draw it Out® Complete Equine Performance® Bundles | Total Horse Recovery Kits

Draw It Out® 64oz Gel – High Potency Horse Liniment for Deep Relief

Draw It Out® 128oz Concentrate Horse Liniment — The Barn Essential

Draw It Out® 16oz High Potency Horse Liniment Gel – Powerful, Natural Relief

Draw It Out® 32oz Horse Liniment Concentrate – Spray, Wrap, or Soak for Fast Equine Relief

Prevent Muscle Soreness in Horses | Draw It Out®

Prevent Muscle Soreness in Horses

Simple Prevention Routine

Why Show-Safe Matters

Quick FAQ

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Further Reading

Real Rider Spotlight – Ellie Love | Draw It Out® Horse Health Care Solutions

The Evolution of a Brand Built by Love | Draw It Out®

Senior Horse Warm‑Up Cadence: Liniment Routine for Sound Starts | Draw It Out®

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