How to Train for a Horse Race

Horse racing is an exciting sport, whether you are training a Thoroughbred for the big race or barrel racing your Quarter Horse at the local rodeo. Training a horse for speed events requires special skills and special consideration for the physical well being of the horse. No matter what type of racing event you are working toward, you need to make sure your equine partner is properly conditioned before you begin.

Things You'll Need

  • Bridle
  • Saddle
  • Arena or riding area
  • Horse boots
  • Quality feed
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure your horse is receiving proper nutrition before beginning any type of racing or speed training. Horses who participate in strenuous activities like racing, endurance riding and rodeo events need a higher level of protein than regular riding horses. Look for a feed with a protein content of at least 14-16 percent, and feed a quality alfalfa hay as well. The extra protein helps the horse build the lean muscle he needs to run his best, while at the same time avoiding injuries.

    • 2

      Protect your horse's legs with a quality set of horse boots each time you train. Good legs are critical to any race horse, and it is important to protect those legs carefully. Many long-strided horses like Thoroughbreds will overreach with their back legs as they run, and this can cause their back hooves to strike their front legs. Horse boots will protect the legs from nicks and cuts that could otherwise occur.

    • 3

      Saddle the horse up and have an exercise rider work him. If you are training a Thoroughbred for racing competition, there will be exercise riders at the track who can help you work the horse. If you are training at home, either ride the horse yourself or ask a friend to ride him while you observe his movements. Be on the lookout for any signs of lameness or injury and alter your training plans as needed.

    • 4

      Warm up your horse with a lot of trotting work, extending the trot as you go. An extended trot helps the horse stretch out his muscles and gets the blood moving to all the major muscle groups. Be sure to move both ways in the ring or on the track. Even though race horses move in a single direction, they still need the flexibility and muscle strength that comes from working all parts of their bodies.

    • 5

      Work on getting the horse to enter the starting gate calmly. Many race horses are fearful of entering small enclosed spaces, and the starting gate can be a real challenge. If you are working at the track, be sure to reserve some training time for working with the starting gate. If you are working at home, you can simulate small spaces by moving through a narrow doorway or a small gap in the fence. Loading and unloading from a horse trailer can also be a good simulation of the starting gate environment.

    • 6

      Do a lot of work on canter departures, making sure the horse moves out smoothly from a walk directly into a canter. As the training continues, make the transition from a halt into a canter, and later from a halt into a full gallop. Halt the horse, then cue him for the canter. Continue working until he moves off smoothly each time.