Just like human athletes, horses perform better and stay sounder when their muscles are eased into and out of work. A proper warm-up and cool-down are not optional extras — they protect joints, tendons and the horse's willingness to work.
The warm-up
Begin with five to ten minutes of walking on a long rein to loosen the muscles and get the joints moving. Progress gradually to trot and then canter, adding gentle bending and transitions. Asking for collected or strenuous work on cold muscles is a common cause of strains.
The cool-down
- Finish the hard work and walk the horse until the breathing settles and the coat is no longer hot or sweaty.
- Never put a hot, sweaty horse straight back in the stable.
- In warm weather, sponge or hose the horse down and scrape off excess water.
- Make sure the horse is dry and comfortable before leaving it.
Why it matters
A consistent routine reduces injuries, helps the horse recover faster, and builds a calm, positive association with work. Over months, horses that are warmed up and cooled down properly stay sounder and happier in their job.
Adjusting for age and season
Older horses and cold-weather starts both benefit from a longer, more patient warm-up than a fit young horse on a warm day needs — stiff joints and cold muscles take longer to loosen regardless of how eager the horse seems to get going.
