Setting Your Horse Up for Success: Preparing for a Strong 2025 Competition Season

The start of a new year is the perfect time to ensure your horse is set up for success in the upcoming competition season. Whether you’re aiming for dressage championships, showjumping rounds, or eventing milestones, preparation is key to keeping your horse sound, fit, and mentally ready for the challenges ahead. In this post, we’ll explore actionable tips to help you and your horse hit the ground running in 2025.

1. Reflect on the Previous Season

Before diving into this year’s goals, take some time to reflect on your horse’s performance and health in 2024.

• Strengths: What went well? Did your horse excel in certain movements, maintain a consistent rhythm, or demonstrate confidence in competition?

• Areas for Improvement: Were there any recurring challenges, such as uneven fitness, trouble with specific movements, or minor injuries?

This review will help you design a plan that builds on your horse’s strengths while addressing areas that need attention.

2. Create a Training Plan

Start with a clear set of goals for 2025—whether it’s competing at a new level, improving scores, or building confidence in specific disciplines.

• Progressive Fitness Plan: Tailor your training schedule to your horse’s current fitness level. Gradually increase intensity to avoid overloading and reduce the risk of injury.

• Discipline-Specific Work: Incorporate regular schooling sessions focused on dressage movements, jumping grids, or cross-country skills, depending on your goals.

Pro Tip: Track your horse’s progress weekly to ensure you’re meeting milestones while maintaining balance in their workload.

3. Schedule Key Appointments

Ensuring your horse is in top physical condition is essential for a successful competition season. Early in the year is an ideal time to schedule:

• Veterinary Check-Ups: Update vaccinations, address dental care, and conduct soundness evaluations to catch any underlying issues.

• Saddle Fitting: As your horse’s fitness evolves, their shape may change. Regular saddle checks ensure comfort and prevent performance-limiting pain.

• Farrier Appointments: Maintain a consistent shoeing schedule tailored to your horse’s workload and footing conditions.

4. Incorporate Cross-Training

Adding variety to your horse’s training keeps them engaged, builds strength, and improves overall fitness.

• Pole Work: Use ground poles to improve coordination and strengthen core muscles.

• Hill Work: Riding on inclines builds hindquarter strength and improves stamina.

• Optional Water Treadmill Sessions: Low-impact water treadmill sessions can help strengthen muscles, improve joint mobility, and support recovery between intensive training sessions.

Cross-training not only enhances physical fitness but also keeps your horse mentally fresh.

5. Focus on Nutrition

Proper nutrition fuels your horse’s performance and supports recovery.

• Balanced Diet: Ensure your horse’s diet provides adequate energy, protein, and essential vitamins to match their workload.

• Weight Management: Monitor your horse’s body condition to avoid underfeeding or overfeeding.

• Consult an Expert: If you’re unsure about your horse’s dietary needs, consider consulting an equine nutritionist for a tailored feeding plan.

A well-fed horse is a happy, healthy competitor.

6. Establish Recovery Routines

Recovery is just as important as training. Incorporate these routines to keep your horse sound throughout the season:

• Cool-Downs: End each session with a proper cool-down to reduce muscle tension.

• Stretching Exercises: Dynamic mobilization stretches improve flexibility and promote relaxation.

• Rest Days: Schedule regular rest days to allow your horse’s muscles to recover and prevent overtraining.

Pro Tip: Regular physiotherapy can address any minor issues before they develop into larger problems.

Ready to Start Your 2025 Season?

The foundation you lay now will set the tone for the entire year. By reflecting on last season, designing a structured training plan, and prioritizing your horse’s health and happiness, you can set both of you up for success. Whether you’re tackling new challenges or refining your skills, preparation is the key to achieving your competition goals.

Need help keeping your horse in peak condition? At Thrive Equine Physio, we specialize in tailored rehabilitation, training support, and physiotherapy treatments to ensure your horse performs at their best all season long. Contact us today to learn more.

Key Takeaways

• Reflect on 2024 to identify goals and areas for improvement in 2025.

• Design a training plan that gradually builds fitness and addresses specific competition needs.

• Prioritize recovery, nutrition, and mental well-being to keep your horse sound and happy.