The ultimate cool down

The aim of a post-ride routine is to bring your pony’s heart and breathing rates back down to a normal level to help him stay in good health. Following your routine after every ride can help your pony stay sound and happy. Here’s what to do!

1. Walk it off

Once you’ve ended your session on a positive note, spend around 10 minutes (or more, after an intense session) walking your pony on a long rein. Allow him to stretch his neck and lower his head, and ride lots of large circles and changes of rein. When you’re done, take your pony back to the yard and untack.

2. Shower time

Pop a headcollar on your pony and grab a bucket of cool water and a sponge, or tie him up next to the hose. Wash his sweaty areas – usually under his saddle, behind his ears and between his legs – scrape the water off, then rinse again. Doing it this way will help to reduce his body temperature more quickly. If it’s a really warm day, your pony might enjoy being washed all over! 

Did you know? 

The cells that make up your pony’s tendons and ligaments heat up during exercise and, if they stay warm for too long, can start to break down. This means he’ll be at a higher risk of injury, which is why it’s best to avoid using fluffy boots and replace them with lightweight, breathable ones that allow air to flow. 

3. Get a feel

Getting into a habit of checking your pony for any cuts, lumps or bumps after exercise is a really sensible thing to do. Carefully feel over the whole of your pony’s body, especially his legs because that’s where he’s most likely to have picked up a little injury. Check for signs of rubbing from his tack and boots, then pick out his feet, too, removing any stones that might be stuck, and could cause him to become sore or lame. 

4. Ice, ice, baby

It’s likely you won’t need to use cooling or ice boots after a gentle hack or light schooling session, but it’s a good idea to invest in some if you do lots of hard work with your pony. There are many different types available, some are kept in the freezer while others just need to be soaked in a bucket of cold water before use, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. 

5. Stretch it out

Using treats to encourage your pony to stretch is a brilliant thing to do and will help keep him feeling supple and flexible. Stretches also reduce his risk of post-ride aches and pains. Speak to your equine physio for advice on stretches that will benefit your pony – there are loads of different exercises to try! Make sure you stretch him equally on both sides of his body! 

Did you know? 

It’s better to do stretches with your pony after exercise because his muscles will be warmed up and more supple, which means he’s less likely to strain them. 

6, Drink up

Grab a bucket of fresh, cool water and offer it to your pony. If he doesn’t want to drink, you could add a splash of blackcurrant squash or a sprinkling of pony nuts to encourage him. You could also feed him an extra sloppy portion of fibre-based mash to add more fluid into his system. Avoid feeding a cereal-based feed soon after riding because this can increase his risk of colic, but it’s fine to allow him access to forage as soon as he’s done. 

Top tip

If it’s a really hot day, try to get up and ride early in the morning to avoid the intense heat of the afternoon. 

Hide out

Now your pony is feeling cool and refreshed, pop him into his stable or tie him up in the shade with a haynet and water until he’s dry. Or, if your pony lives out, you can put him back into the field and let him enjoy a good roll and scratch!