Q3 Theme: Performance Prep
Warm Up Right, Cool Down Calm: Pre- & Post-Ride Routine
A crisp routine riders can run every day: loosen up before you mount, then cool down cleanly after you dismount. Quick checks, smart support, and no drama—so your horse feels ready today and tomorrow.
In this post
Why a 10-Minute Routine Wins
Consistency beats intensity. Short, repeatable steps help tissues warm evenly, reduce post-work puff, and make problems easier to spot early. The routine below is designed to be sensation-free, under-tack friendly, and calm enough for busy barns and show grounds.
Pre-Ride Warm-Up (3–5 minutes)
- Walk & scan. Hand-walk ~2 minutes. Watch footfalls. Note any stiffness or guarded steps.
- Loosen gently. A few carrot stretches or nose-to-girth on both sides. Keep it easy and symmetrical.
- Targeted support. Smooth on a thin layer of Draw It Out® 16oz High Potency Gel to known hotspots. Allow to absorb before tacking.
Pro tip: Keep a small towel and your gel at the cross-ties. Frictionless setup = zero excuses.
In-Saddle Activation (2–4 minutes)
- Long-and-low in walk, then light lateral work each direction.
- Serpentine with big loops; add a few walk–trot–walk transitions.
- One or two short focuses (e.g., rhythm or straightness). Save the big asks for later.
Post-Ride Cooldown (8–10 minutes)
- Walk down. 3–5 minutes on a loose rein.
- Cool & dry. Hose or sponge legs with cool water; squeegee and towel to damp-dry.
- Cooling support. Mist Cryospray along tendons and large muscle groups as directed.
- Recheck & (optional) wraps. Palpate for heat/puffiness. If needed, apply clean, even standing wraps and recheck at 30–45 minutes.
- Spot-target. For stubborn hot zones, many riders reach for MasterMudd™ EquiBrace post-ride.
Rider-Favorite Products
- Draw It Out® 16oz High Potency Gel — sensation-free support that fits under tack and wraps when used per label.
- Cryospray Cooling Body Brace — fast, targeted cooling after work.
- MasterMudd™ EquiBrace — focused support for joints and soft tissue after hard efforts.
- Solution Finder — get a tailored setup for your horse’s routine.
Keep Tomorrow Ride-Ready.
Simple steps. Sensation-free support. Consistency that pays off.
FAQs
Can I use the 16oz Gel under tack or wraps?
Yes. Apply a thin layer to clean skin and let it absorb before tacking. For wraps, use clean, dry materials with even pressure. Always follow the label.
When should I pick Cryospray instead of the Gel?
Use Cryospray for rapid, broad cooling after work; use the Gel for targeted, sensation-free support on known hotspots.
Where does MasterMudd™ fit?
Post-ride, for focused joint or soft-tissue areas. Apply as directed on clean, dry skin. If heat, swelling, or lameness persists, contact your veterinarian.
Is this routine show-safe?
Always check current FEI/USEF and your discipline’s rules. Our approach is show-aware, but regulations can change.
Always follow label directions. Patch-test new products. If swelling, heat, or lameness persists, consult your veterinarian.
More hubs: Solution Finder • View All Products • Real Rider Resource
