12/11/2025
Body Work in the winter and WHY:
No one wants to ride when it's cold, but keeping your performance horse in shape and feeling their best in the winter is essential to helping them when it comes springtime and hauling season.
Here is my favorite analogy to use: Do you think NFL players quit exercising and taking care of their body in off season? Absolutely not. They keep up on their exercises and therapies. Why? Because it makes going into their next season easier and prevents injuries.
Now how does that apply to horses? So much strain is put on their joints, tendons, and ligaments when you throw them out to pasture for the winter, in front of their hay feeder that they do not move from often. Their joints stiffen up, their muscles tighten up, and it makes things HARD when you want to get them back in shape for the winter. But I get it, riding them properly and keeping in shape is so hard when its 5 degrees out. But that is when issues become BIGGER issues. That is when the small aches and pains from arthritis become debilitating and harmful.
Here is where body work comes in: maintaining and detecting issues before there are any.
Prevents Strains: Bodywork helps keep the horse supple and prevents strains by detecting and addressing torque and tension before they escalate into major injuries. (1.)
Maintains Muscle Tone: Regular bodywork helps keep the horse's muscles full and supple, which is essential for maintaining their weight and overall health during the winter months. (2.)
Enhances Performance: Bodywork can improve flexibility and range of motion, which is vital for performance horses as they transition into more regular work and performance. (3.)
Supports Hoof Health: Active movement aids in hoof growth and health, promoting better blood flow to the hoof, which is crucial for its integrity and repair. (4.)
Prepares for Spring Activities: Maintaining fitness over the winter ensures a smoother transition to more intense spring activities, reducing the risk of injury. (4.)
By incorporating bodywork into the winter care routine, horse owners can ensure their performance horses are well-prepared for the upcoming spring and summer months.
Here are some great articles:
(1.) https://mastersonmethod.com/bodywork-in-winter-tips-and-tricks/
(2.) https://www.wholehorsewellness.com/post/the-benefits-of-bodywork-through-the-winter
(3.) https://winningtouchequineservices.com/blogs/learning-centre/winners-are-made-over-winter-preparing-your-equine-athlete-and-yourself-for-spring-success
(4.) https://equicoreconcepts.com/10-tips-for-conditioning-your-horse-in-the-winter/
