Trail Riding Recovery: How to Care for Your Horse After the Ride
Excerpt: Whether you’re coming off a weekend camping trip or a relaxing trail loop, your horse’s body worked harder than you think. Here’s how to cool down, check for soreness, and keep your trail partner feeling great.
Trail Miles Hit Differently
Even at slower gaits, trail riding introduces hills, uneven footing, and longer ride times. That means more micro-adjustments in your horse’s joints, tendons, and back muscles.
Recovery isn’t just for arena horses—it’s essential for trail mounts too.
Post-Ride Walk Out
Just like after any workout, a cool-down walk helps normalize heart rate and circulation. Give your horse at least 10 minutes of relaxed walking—either under saddle or in hand.
Bonus: This is a great time to mentally replay the ride and note any off moments or hesitations.
Hydration Check
Offer water right away. If the ride was long, steep, or warm, consider adding electrolytes. For sensitive stomachs, Hydro-Lyte with GastroCell supports hydration without digestive upset.
Inspect the Whole Horse
- Check hooves for rocks, bruising, or lost shoes
- Run your hands along the back and girth area for swelling or sensitivity
- Palpate legs and tendons for heat, puffiness, or uneven swelling
Don’t skip this step—many soft tissue injuries show up subtly after uneven terrain.
Topical Recovery Tools
Trail riding taxes the whole body. Use recovery products to ease soreness and reduce inflammation:
- Draw It Out® 16oz Gel on legs, hocks, and knees
- RTU Spray across back, shoulders, and lumbar
- IceBath™ Cooling Body Wash for post-ride rinses
All three are show-safe, non-tingling, and wrap-compatible.
Next-Day Watch
The day after a trail ride, check for stiffness, swelling, or mood changes. Some soreness is normal—but if it persists or worsens, it’s worth consulting your vet or bodyworker.
Final Thoughts: Real Riders Ride Smart
Trail riding is joy-filled, peaceful, and vital for your horse’s mind. But don’t let that fool you—recovery still matters. The right post-ride care protects your partner and ensures many more miles ahead.