Tips for Maximising Racehorse Performance
There are many factors that can influence a racehorse’s performance. These include its diet, training, care as well as its genetic qualities which are largely determined by its thoroughbred breeding.
A thoroughbred racehorse typically gallops at around 30 miles per hour, on average, however, the fastest speed ever recorded was 43.97 miles per hour. To help maximise racehorse performance, this article has outlined some tips and techniques that can improve the chances of success on the race track.
Endurance Training
According to research, endurance training in horses changes the metabolic profile of their skeletal muscles, helping them become more efficient at using energy, especially from fat. Training a racehorse for endurance can entail running specific distances each day, beginning slowly and gradually building up pace. Alternatively, trainers can begin training sessions with speed and gradually increase the distances over which the horse runs.
A varied course and training routine can ensure a horse remains enthusiastic and exerts effort during its training exercises. It can also ensure it does not become complacent or bored and begins to disregard its trainer’s commands.
Feed and Supplements
The right diet will ensure a racehorse has the fuel it needs to run long distances at high speeds. Small grain meals that are fed frequently and are rich in fats, protein, and carbohydrates are ideal for giving a racehorse the energy it requires. High-starch grains can also be fed a few hours before a race to help a horse utilise its energy more effectively.
Supplements containing Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) leading up to a race can also improve stamina, performance, and recovery in racehorses. Research published in the MSD Veterinary Manual shows that following high-energy workouts, muscular ATP levels decrease substantially. ATP supplements can help counter these drops and help in energy recovery following intense bouts of exercise and training.
Check Breathing
During intense exercise, the respiration rate of a racehorse can be as high as 120 breaths per minute. As a result, any factors that impede its breathing can have a significant impact on its performance. Whether it’s a cough, nasal congestion, or airway obstruction, breathing difficulties should be investigated as they can reduce the horse’s endurance and speed.
In mild cases, healthcare products specially designed for racehorses can ease or cure a cough. These typically contain menthol or eucalyptus to help soothe the horse’s throat and clear its airways, enabling improvements in breathing. It’s also vital to ensure the horse’s living quarters are free from dust, mould or other contaminants that could cause respiratory problems and place stress on the horse’s lungs.
Recovery Techniques
Following exercise, proper recovery is crucial for maintaining peak performance in racehorses. Certain techniques can be implemented to help muscles recover and relieve soreness or the risk of injury. These include massage therapy, stretching, hydrotherapy, and acupuncture.
Active cooling, through specialised cooling sheets or hoses, can help lower a horse’s body temperature following a workout, while electrolytes can help to rebalance lost fluids during intense activity.
By following these tips, trainers can ensure their racehorses are healthy and in peak performance for race day.