Sponsored

Source: Acera Insurance 

Well-meaning riders are understandably concerned about ensuring their horses are fit enough for their jobs. But in the drive for competitive results, it’s easy to over-practice and over-train horses — by simply doing too much work and not providing enough rest and recovery days in between. Over-trained horses may get ulcers, wear-and-tear injuries, and go lame, all of which are expensive and time-consuming to treat. Plus, there’s no competitive advantage to having over-trained horses as they typically perform poorly, show signs of stress, and are over-tired. Rest is essential to increase fitness, so it’s in riders’ best interests to ensure that sufficient recovery time is built into the horse’s training schedule.  

So how can riders and owners keep horses “show fit” without overdoing it? 

Create a Training Calendar 

An annual training and competitive calendar can help riders and owners prioritize long-term horse health and welfare.  

“We rely on owners and trainers to be aware of their horse’s abilities and limitations and avoid over-training,” says Mike King, Director for Equine Insurance and a Partner at Acera Insurance.  

Show season objectives must be balanced with training needs and rest days. That way, horses (and riders) have time to build fitness while physically and emotionally recovering and avoiding injury. The sweet spot between a fit horse that’s primed to compete and an over-trained equine on the verge of injury is knife-edge thin. 

“Every show season there is a proliferation of insurance claims for ulcers and lameness due to stress and overuse,” says King.

Get Professional Help 

“Veterinarians play a vital role in identifying small issues before they become big issues,” says King. 

Other professionals such as equine physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and farriers play a part, too. They can help keep horses in correct alignment and condition, thereby reducing the potential for injury. Although medications may also have a place, riders and owners are wise to consult their veterinarian before use to ensure medications aren’t masking underlying issues. 

Think Long Term 

As the show season progresses, so may a competitive horse’s fatigue. It’s easy to over-train an enthusiastic young horse who exudes talent and energy. A rider’s production mindset can get in the way, too. Slow, methodical training often leads to more consistent results than being in a hurry to move up the levels. Focussing on correct development reduces the potential for over-training and may turn a rough diamond into the best horse of an amateur’s career. 

Reduce Everyday Stress 

But it’s not just amateur riders who struggle to find balance. During COVID-19 shutdowns, top riders pursued more relaxed training schedules and publicly expressed surprise at how well their horses were going. Many acknowledged that sometimes less work gets better results. The reduced show schedule was likely a factor, too.  

Everyday life stressors can produce anxiety and stress, amplifying the effects of high-intensity training. That means the stress of travelling to shows, clinics, or events may increase the fatigue felt by physically demanding training. Accordingly, removing possible stressors in your horse’s life is paramount — increase turn-out space and time, turn out horses with a buddy or herd, and provide forage all day every day.

Train for the Job 

Tailor the training schedule to the work expected, so that the horse develops fitness suitable for the specific competitive tasks. Horses gain fitness through progressive training — first in duration, then in intensity. Skills can be trained in short sessions. Alternate more intensive training with days of light work or turnout. Avoid repeating strenuous efforts on consecutive days. The horse’s tissues need time to respond and recover. 

Support Recovery  

Encouraging active recovery is key. The faster the horse recovers, the quicker training can progress. After intense workouts, consider cold hosing, poulticing, bandaging, and hand-walking to help the horse excrete toxins and rebuild cells. Massage and therapy blankets and wraps can also help. Plus, when building towards a big event, taper training intensity prior to the competition so that the horse arrives at the competition physically and mentally rested.  

Top equestrian performances are created through careful planning and correct training, ensuring that horses have adequate mental and physical fitness without overdoing the demands on their bodies. Finding that sweet spot can be tricky, but emphasizing horse welfare over competition results can save riders and owners thousands of dollars and ensure their horses have long competitive careers. 

Acera Insurance. Same great people, stronger than ever. 

Main Photo: iStock-588482751 - Calaimage-Agnieszka Olek