Running a stable
Part 2: Ensure your racehorse has proper exercise
Running a training stable requires a clear and proper programme for exercising, training and preparing racehorses to ensure that they are physically fit; they are just like athletes training for a race.
Regular exercise
Racehorses need to build their strength up gradually: they cannot just start with strenuous exercise. This can increase endurance, stamina and resistance to disease, which will be vital to any racehorse’s success on the racetrack.
Regular routine
The racehorses need to gradually build up their strength: they cannot just start with strenuous exercise. They will need to start with walking, allowing them to get progressively fitter before cantering and galloping. They can injure or pull muscles if not adequately warmed up.
Starting gates and hurdles
As well as practising at higher speeds, racehorses for flat races will need time to get accustomed to getting into starting gates.
Fences
Some racehorses will be trained for jump races (hurdles or fences). Racehorses will need additional training and preparation for these, particularly fence races, which are at least 1.4 metres (4½ feet) high (hurdles are 1 metre / 3½ feet high) and run over longer distances than hurdles. Some of the most famous fence races are the Queen Mother Champion Chase, the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the highly prestigious Grand National.