Condition, Performance & Energy
A HORSE IN GOOD CONDITION IS HALF THE BATTLE.
If we are going to train, we prefer to do it with a fit and healthy horse. Good condition makes the work more enjoyable for both horse and rider. A horse's condition depends on several factors. How to achieve good condition without resulting in a horse that's too "hot"? Through a combination of good health, nutrition, training, and management.
To get a horse in good condition, it is first of all important that the horse is healthy and that its body can absorb all nutrients properly. Only then can a horse look good, feel good, and perform well.
HEALTH
When we talk about the condition of a horse, it is important that we are all "on same page". Indeed, fitness is a broad term and can be interpreted in different ways. Whichever way you look at it, a suboptimal condition is detrimental to a horse's well-being and performance.
A healthy horse has a shiny coat, beautiful clear eyes, and is energetic. When horses suddenly seem lazy or start to moult badly, there is often an underlying cause. Good health is an important parameter for fitness. But a healthy horse that looks good is not necessarily fit. Training plays a major role in the development of good physical condition.
understanding is key
A fit horse has sufficient stamina, a strong, supple body and is energetic – qualities that are essential for training and competition. Make sure that your horse takes in energy corresponding to its needs. Provide sufficient concentrate feed if your horse carries out hard work, but no more than necessary. Moreover, do not confuse energy with stamina or temperament. A horse that is exhausted after just fifteen minutes does not have stamina. And "hot" horses can also have too little energy. Is your horse suddenly tiring much faster or seeming less active? Then look for what may be the cause.
TIMING OF FEEDING
A well-considered choice of feed is a good start. However, timing also has an important influence on performance, as nutrients are absorbed in different ways.
High-fat, high-fibre concentrate feeds can provide greater stamina. Figure on 6 to 8 weeks before expecting to see results. The results can be seen much more quickly with concentrate feeds that are high in sugar and starch. After an hour and a half to two hours, a peak in blood glucose occurs which manifests itself as a real energy surge. Feed your horse roughage as often as possible to keep the digestive system running smoothly. In addition, feed your horse roughage first and then concentrate feed for a positive effect on digestion.
Regularly feeding small amounts of concentrate feed will have positive effects on the horse's health, reducing the risk of stomach ulcers and colic, among other things.
We’re committed to good health inside and out. Our products – nutrition, supplements and care products – reflect what your horse needs in every sporting achievement, stage of life or special need. Because horses that are happy and healthy are our most valuable asset.
