Show season can be a blast — but it’s also exhausting.

Long days, early mornings, intense rides, and hauling from show to show don’t just take a toll on your horse… they wear you down, too.

Whether you’re starting to feel the fatigue creep in or want to stay ahead of it, here’s your no-nonsense guide to recovering smarter and staying sound this season.

🧠 First, Understand: Riding is a Demanding Sport

You're asking your body to:

• Wake up early

• Load and haul heavy gear

• Ride + perform horse care tasks for multiple hours

• Stay focused under pressure

• Repeat it all the next day

And you might be doing all of this on less sleep, limited nutrition, and no formal recovery plan. That’s a recipe for burnout or injury — but it doesn’t have to be.

💪 4 Recovery Strategies Every Rider Needs Mid-Season

1. Mobility > Foam Rolling (But Both Help)

Yes, foam rolling feels good. But targeted mobility (like deep squat holds, hip openers, and thoracic twists) actually preps your joints and restores movement where you lose it most.

👉 Tip: 5–10 minutes of mobility in the morning or after your ride beats a full “recovery day” you never get around to.

2. Walk It Off — Literally

Movement is one of the best forms of recovery. After riding, hauling, or sitting at the edge of a show ring all day, your body needs to re-circulate.

Go for a 10–15 minute walk after your last ride or before dinner. It helps flush out soreness, clears your head, and kickstarts recovery.

3. Eat Enough — Especially Protein

You’re likely not eating enough to fuel your work. A protein bar on the go isn’t enough.

Focus on:

• eating protein in each meal or snack

• Hydration with electrolytes, not just water

• Carbs pre-ride to fill energy stores

Your energy, mood, and strength are all tied to what you’re eating.

4. Breathe + Downshift

After high-intensity days, your nervous system needs a chance to reset. Quick breathing drills or even 5 minutes lying on your back, feet up, breathing deeply can:

• Reduce nervous system stressors

• Calm your system

• Improve sleep

• Help with mental clarity and focus

🧭 What Recovery Actually Looks Like for Riders

It doesn’t mean skipping your workouts. It means:

• Training smart (not hard)

• Listening to your body

• Taking 10–15 minutes to reset after a ride

• Giving yourself permission to rest without guilt

🐴 Still Want to Train During Show Season?

You're not alone — and you don’t have to guess what to do.

The Resilient Rider: Essentials includes structured strength training and mobility that fits into your season, not against it.

🧘 3 sessions/week (30–45 min)
🎯 Gym and travel-friendly versions
💡 Recovery tips and ongoing support included

👉 Join here and ride strong all season long.