Nutrition, Supplements, and Conditioning for Show Horses

A high-performance horse is an equine athlete—period. And just like human athletes, they need targeted nutrition, carefully selected supplements, and a conditioning program that supports peak performance while preventing burnout.

At Sage Creek Stables, we take a holistic, evidence-based approach to fueling and conditioning our horses, grounded in science and customized to the needs of each animal. Here’s what that looks like in practice.

1. Feeding for Function: Fueling the Athlete

There’s no one-size-fits-all grain or hay regimen in a true training barn. We assess:

• Body condition score (BCS)

• Metabolism and workload

• Breed-specific sensitivities

• Temperament and focus

Our base feed plans typically combine premium alfalfa with balanced grain (when needed), ensuring slow-digesting fiber and targeted calories. Hydration is monitored daily, and horses are fed on consistent, quiet schedules to support gut health.

2. Strategic Supplementation

Supplements should never be guesswork. Each one we use is selected with purpose and tracked for efficacy. Our most common supplementation categories include:

• Joint support (HA, MSM, glucosamine)

• Hoof and coat health (biotin, omega-3s)

• Gastrointestinal support (digestive enzymes, buffers)

• Calming and focus (magnesium, thiamine, tryptophan blends)

All supplements are reviewed with the vet and trainer for appropriateness, ensuring we never oversupplement or cause imbalances.

3. Conditioning with Precision

Fitness is not just about cardio—it’s about preparing the horse’s entire system for the demands of competition. Our conditioning programs include:

• Interval work and hill training for strength and stamina

• Flatwork that develops the topline and hind end engagement

• Cavaletti and pole work to improve balance and proprioception

• Rest days and low-impact movement to support recovery

Every ride has a purpose. Every week is part of a bigger plan.

4. Monitoring and Adjustment

Elite horses change. Their needs evolve with age, competition level, and training phase. That’s why we continuously evaluate:

• Weight and body condition

• Attitude under saddle

• Muscle tone and recovery speed

• Bloodwork (if needed) for deeper nutritional insight

This is not guess-and-check. It’s data-backed, trainer-informed, and constantly evolving.

5. The Human Factor

None of this works without a knowledgeable, hands-on team. Our grooms and trainers collaborate daily to track feeding, conditioning, and behavior—so we can course-correct early and keep horses in the best shape of their lives.

Final Thoughts

At Sage Creek, nutrition and conditioning are never afterthoughts—they’re essential tools in producing strong, happy, sound athletes. Whether your horse is prepping for medal finals or coming back from a break, our program is designed to meet them where they are and support where they’re going.

Interested in a Performance Program That Covers It All? Let’s talk. We’re here to guide horse and rider toward long-term success with clarity, strategy, and care.