Nettles Ranch, Inc
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Spring Conditioning

COMING BACK FROM WINTER "LAY UP"

In the northern parts of the country, many horse owners have a
limited ability to ride during the coldest and snowiest months of the
year.  When you do start riding your horse in the spring, it is
important to develop a training program that will safely bring your
horse back into condition.

Keep in mind that your horse has not been "exercising" even if he is
kept out in a pasture for most or all of the winter.  Your horse may
also have a heavy winter coat that he is not done shedding out yet.

Start your exercise program slowly with walking and trotting until your
horse begins to show signs that he is starting to develop some
muscling.

Don't forget to stretch your horse after he has warmed up.  His
muscles may have tightened and shortened up during his time off.

Remember to GO SLOWLY!!!  Bringing your horse along too fast can
result in soft tissue injuries that will take weeks or months to heal!
Whether you have been riding your horse all winter, or you
are just starting your horse back from a winter lay up;
springtime brings special challenges for our horses...
Think about footing...

indoor riding arena to ride in during the
winter months, consider the difference the
footing will be for your horse when you start
riding outside again.

Spring time brings rain and mud for much of
the country, and mud means slippery or
deep sucking footing.  Be cautious of trails
and fields that are muddy and go slow or
avoid these areas altogether.

Your horses field or turn out area may be
slippery or muddy as well.  Be on the
lookout for subtle lameness that may come
from pulling their feet out of deep mud, or
slipping on wet ground.

When in doubt... GO SLOW!  Your horse
will better be able to navigate the footing at
a slower pace.