Do I always need to warm up and cool down?
Short answer
Yes, gradual transitions and stretching early on in a session support circulation, joint lubrication, and tissue resilience. Warming up and cooling down provide us an opportunity to check in with our horses and notice where their mental and emotional states are at as well too.
Real-Life Example
Skipping warm-up and immediately cantering or doing higher level movements can increase strain on cold tendons. Spending 10-15 minutes of work at the walk allows the tissues to better prepare for increasing load.
It Depends
Warm-up duration varies with:
• Temperature
• Age
• Work intensity
• Previous injury/lameness history
Cool-down matters greatly after intense or prolonged effort.
When to Seek Guidance
Consult your veterinarian if your horse consistently shows:
• Early stiffness
• Post-work swelling
• Reduced performance
Sources:
Frippiat, T., & Votion, D. M. (2024). Warm-Up Strategies and Effects on Performance in Racing Horses and Sport Horses Competing in Olympic Disciplines.
Farinelli, F., & Rezende, A., & Fonseca, M., & Lana, Â., & Paes Leme, F., & Klein, B., & Silva, R., & Abreu, A., & Damazio, M., & Melo, M. (2021). Influence of Stretching Exercises, Warm-Up, or Cool-Down on the Physical Performance of Mangalarga Marchador Horses.
Kang, O.-D., Ryu, Y.-C., Yun, Y.-M., & Kang, M.-S. (2012). Effects of cooldown methods and durations on equine physiological traits following high-intensity exercise.
