After a strenuous workout or after a barrel run, part of my cool-down process for the horses in the warmer temperatures (15+) is cold hosing all 4 legs, at the very least, knees, and hocks downwards.

Cold hosing is not just for injuries. Known for an array of therapeutic benefits, it is a simple and affordable tool to add to the list of maintaining a performance horse.

Cold water therapy can help slow excess blood flow after strenuous workouts and in turn help to reduce swelling or fluid build-up (stocking up) post-exercise.

• Cools down tendons and ligaments.

• Eases aches and pains

As the temperature and workloads increase for our horses heading into summer, you may want to consider using electrolytes. Let’s talk about why it is important to maintain electrolyte intake with your horses and what to look for in a good electrolyte supplement.

Electrolytes have numerous primary and secondary functions, learn the functions and tips for incorporating electrolytes into your routine.

Attributes to a strong coach - What is most important to you when seeking coaching or training advice? 

Whether the focus is upping the mental game, riding skill, or horsemanship here are 3 attributes that I hold my coaches accountable to when seeking long-term help from others. Oddly enough this has all held true to the coaches I have had over the years.

Product Review: Cavalor Sozen Supplement

For horses who are involved in disciplines requiring intense, high-energy performance, some may require additional support targeting direct weaknesses in their body. A supplement supporting their adrenal and cortisol function helps both their physical and mental condition and maintenance.

Training tip – Why do we rise on the outside posting diagonal?

If you have ever had any type of formal riding lessons involving arena work, you will have likely been told while trotting to rise when the outside shoulder comes forward.  So why is this and why is it relevant? 

Learn more about the posting diagonal and tips how to improve your riding!

"In the moments when you feel you are headed into overdrive, catch yourself and lift the foot off the gas - just for a moment. I promise, you will still get to where you are going."

Learn two things I make time for when I feel like I am flooring it a little too hard. “Slow Down to Speed Up: How Taking a Moment to Rest Can Boost Your Riding Success"

In southern Alberta, we are contending with extremely hard dry footing and ground conditions the majority of the time.  Building our horses’ tolerance to this is a vital factor when gearing up for the outdoor season.

You will have different considerations for training in a climate with the opposite conditions. I have provided my variation if I was training in a climate with heavy ground to work in or more consistently wet elements.

Learn 3 Things I Incorporate into Workouts When Getting Out of the Indoor Arena

Equi - Tape Product Review

When and why I use it:

• Provides extra support when coming back from injuries or supporting past injuries

• Aids in awareness to certain body parts for the horse while developing training and fitness

• Adds support to weaker areas of the body or where a horse may be hesitant to use  EX. Sacrum Joint, Gluteal muscles

• Adds support to tendons and ligaments in the lower limbs

After having fed this product to a multitude of horses over the past few years, seeing and feeling the results firsthand in resolving both minor and major issues, leads me to believe the scientific research, insight  and knowledge at Purina Feeds is more then a step above!

A simple and old school rule I loosely stick to when building up cardio with our barrel horses to improve our spring fitness is doing consistent outdoor field work. Take advantage of the fields before farmers begin seeding. Sprint work is great for humans and horses in training and conditioning.

SPRINT Fitness - train with long, slow workouts (this boosts endurance)!

LONG DISTANCE Fitness – train with short, high energy workouts!