Cooling your horse down
January 09, 2019
Does a horse need to be cooled down after a workout?
Like any athlete in a race, the quick exertion of a run requires more oxygen then the body can adequately deliver so the muscles generate a substance called lactate. Any excess lactate produced turns to lactic acid when the race is over. By walking your horse, you eliminate the excess lactic acid that could cause sore muscles.
When our bodies perform strenuous exercise, we begin to breather faster as we attempt to shuttle more oxygen to our working muscles. This aerobic method of generating energy works in most instances.
Some circumstances, however require energy production faster than our bodies can adequately deliver oxygen. In those cases, the working muscles generate energy anaerobically, which allows glucose breakdown - and thus energy production. Working muscle cells can continue this type of anaerobic energy production at high rates for one to three minutes, during which time lactate can accumulate to high levels.
Once the body slows down, oxygen becomes available allowing continued aerobic metabolism and energy for the body's recovery from the strenuous event. Walking removes any excess lactic acid that might have accumulated.
This is a very simple explanation of a very complex issue. Exercise physiologists are actively researching delayed-onset muscle soreness in response to extreme exercise. On-going discussions actively strive for potential prevention and treatment of muscle soreness.
Leave a comment
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Also in Connolly
March 25, 2026
In this inaugural post of the Rider Series, we'll walk through the custom build process at Connolly Saddlery, using the step-by-step approach that turns a vision into a handcrafted heirloom saddle. Whether you're a barrel racer chasing the clock, a roper building a ranch string, or an all-around rider seeking versatility, understanding this process helps you appreciate why Connolly saddles stand out for fit, durability, and that "in the saddle" feel.
Continue Reading
February 12, 2026
Lisa Lockhart, the all-time WPRA barrel racing money leader, is closing in on history in 2026. With career earnings of **$3,985,366** through 2025—including $280,008 for an 8th-place world finish and her 19th consecutive NFR qualification—she needs just **$14,634** to become the first barrel racer to surpass **$4 million** in WPRA earnings.
The season kicked off strong at Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, where she advanced from Bracket 1 with clutch runs: 16.75 seconds (3rd, $1,500) in Roun...
Continue Reading
January 15, 2026
Discover why cowboy hats remain a timeless fashion statement in 2026. Learn about their history, versatility, and how to find the perfect fit at Connolly Saddlery.
Continue Reading
