Warm Up For Indoor Driving Events and Short Format

Winter competition and short format

Some of our events are of a style which almost encourages people to skip the warm up process. Indoor driving events often take place at venues with little or no warm up facilities and there is a misconception that because the horse doesn't have to complete a marathon it doesn't have to be fit. It may be tempting to think that you can put to and simply stroll on over to the indoor school, wait your turn in the cold and then proceed into the competition and complete a couple of obstacles. This is similar to expecting to drive yourself to a sprinting competition, climb out of your car, stand on the start line in cold weather and then at the starting pistol SPRINT! Does that sound sensible?

Similarly our trend towards Gateway and Short Format outdoor competitions again encourage people to bring equines which are not competition fit to compete with little to no warm up. It is a misconception to think that our horses only have to be fit when they are doing a full marathon because it is not the kms we complete prior to the obstacles which are the only challenge. Arguably the greater challenge is the speed, power, suppleness and acceleration required in obstacles. When we start a short format or Gateway class it is not sufficient to wander from the lorry park to the start and then begin.

In fact a reasonable warm up is considered to be on average 15-20minutes, this is the approximate time required to complete around 4-5km prior to reaching obstacles. On a full marathon you will have completed section A, of course some warm up should be carried out prior to setting off in any case but you can see why the traditional full marathon is, in many ways, a far more horse friendly style of event.

With this in mind if you are competing Gateway, Short Format or Indoor you should still be trying to warm up for around 15-20 minutes. If space is at a premium you could do some stretches before even putting to. Carrot stretches can be an efficient way to get your horse moving and stretching whilst still at the lorry.

You could also lead your horse around or long rein to at least get them moving around.

A warm up will gradually raise the heart rate which increases the amount of oxygen circulating and increase blood circulation to muscles. This prevents accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles and surrounding tissues.

Warming up your horse is a crucial step in preparing them for physical activity. Whether you are heading out for a leisurely trail ride or gearing up for a competitive event, a proper warm-up routine can help prevent injuries and improve performance. So, how can you ensure that your horse is properly warmed up? Let's dive into the details.

Why is warming up important?

Warming up your horse helps increase blood flow to the muscles, making them more supple and ready for exercise. It also raises the horse's body temperature, which can help prevent strains and injuries during intense activity. A good warm-up routine can improve your horse's flexibility, range of motion, and overall performance.

How long should a warm-up last?

On average, a horse's warm-up should last between 15 to 20 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on the intensity of the upcoming activity and the individual needs of the horse. It's essential to start with low-intensity movements and gradually increase the intensity to prepare the muscles adequately.

What exercises should be included?

During the warm-up, focus on exercises that engage the horse's entire body. This can include walking, trotting, and cantering in both directions to ensure symmetrical muscle engagement. Incorporating circles, serpentines, and transitions can help further loosen up the muscles and joints.

How can you tell if your horse is warmed up?

Pay attention to your horse's body language and movement during the warm-up. Look for signs of relaxation, such as a swinging tail and a soft expression. Additionally, the horse's muscles should feel warm and supple to the touch. A properly warmed-up horse will move more freely and willingly, indicating that they are ready for the main activity.

Keeping them warm

Indoor events through winter can be very challenging in terms of the external environment. They can take all day and the weather is often very unhelpful so you need to be prepared with appropriate rugs to keep your horse warm. You can use a thick waterproof rug such as a turnout rug whilst tied up at the lorry and a quarter sheet designed for driving whilst warming up

Any additional tips?

Remember to adjust the warm-up routine based on the weather conditions. In colder temperatures, you may need to spend more time warming up to ensure that the horse's muscles are adequately prepared. Additionally, always listen to your horse and be responsive to any signs of discomfort or resistance during the warm-up process.

By following these guidelines and tailoring the warm-up routine to your horse's specific needs, you can help optimize their performance and reduce the risk of injuries. A well-executed warm-up sets the foundation for a successful and enjoyable ride for both you and your equine partner.