Sep 19, 2025

Cooling Legs after Exercise

There are lots of theories regarding which methods work best. There are various options and some great products on the market. Cold hosing is one of the easiest and cheapest options, however this can be quite time consuming as research suggests that you should hose each leg between 5-10 minutes to cool them adequately.

Equine spas are brilliant but unfortunately pricey. These are great because they not only cool the legs with a consistent water temperature they also use salt water and have a massage function to help improve circulation and reduce swelling.

There are also cooling gels and clays. These work by drawing the heat away from the limbs and help to prevent swelling. A lot of the clays can then be bandaged over once dry to add additional support. The clays and gels then need to be washed off after a certain period of time, although this differs for each product. Whichever method you chose think about practicality and time constraints, for example if you are at shows some options aren’t always possible.

Warming up properly is vital to help reduce injuries, increase mobility and elasticity in muscles which will help minimize stress and strain on tendons and ligaments. As well as warming up properly, cooling down is just as important, allowing the horses to stretch after strenuous exercise helps prevent lactic acid build up in muscles, proper walking off will help prevent muscle stiffness and ‘tying up’. Doing fitness work properly and slowly after a break is imperative as muscle tone, strength and fitness will be lost even if only after a short time.

Using stable bandages overnight and during the day for prolonged periods of stabling can help prevent filling/swelling. The same principles apply with stable bandages but always make sure you apply them correctly especially if being left on overnight and be sure to take them off check the legs and re apply them if they are then staying on during the day.

HOW DOES CLAY WORK?

A great absorption capacity

Like a sponge, clay has an amazing intra-tissular absorption capacity. Some clays can absorb up to 40% of their weight in liquids! Applied to our horses’ legs after a training or show, clay can get rid of all toxins and other harmful substances.

Particle transfer, both ways

If we know that clay absorbs some elements, we also are aware that the particle transfer from clay to the organism goes both ways. It could be that clay has a “re-mineralizing” effect, even though that would still need to be scientifically proven.

Astringent properties: tightens tissues

Thanks to the absorption of toxins and other elements, clay helps in tightening tissues that tend to inflame, for instance during an intense effort.

WHICH CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD I APPLY CLAY POULTICE ON MY HORSE?

The various effects of clay on horses as an external care product make it be a perfect ally for the post effort recovery phase. Whatever your disciple is, you will help your horse to recover more quickly after an intense training session or show, by applying clay on the relevant areas.

ON WHICH OF MY HORSE’S AREAS CAN I APPLY CLAY POULTICE?

clay poultice is mainly used on the horse’s tendons, as they are a very sensitive area that gets particularly challenged during efforts. It can thus be useful in case of tendonitis – of course, in addition to a veterinary protocol.

On the other body parts, it can also be used in case of bruises, sprains, or various contusions.

Sorboplex™, the special ingredient in Like Ice, begins working on contact to tighten and cool hot, tired legs after strenuous exercise. The Kaolin base cools the leg, while Aloe Vera and Melaleuca soothes and moisturizes. Like Ice washes off easily, making it ideal for the busy yard.

Directions for use - Clean the desired area of any other applications. Apply a layer of Like Ice one centimeter thick over the intended area. Wrap the preparation with moist brown paper, or cling film. Cover with a cotton bandage. Leave on for up to twelve hours, then wash or hose thoroughly. Repeat as required.

For any additional information please email info@equineamerica.com