Cavallo Farms: Cool Tips for Hot Performance

Cavallo Farms: Cool Tips for Hot Performance

January 15, 2025

Even though Tallahassee doesn’t get the harsh winters of the north, winter horse care and training are still essential! Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, Cavallo Farms has you covered with smart strategies to keep your equestrian experience fun, safe, and productive this season.

1. Winter Horse Care Essentials: Keep Your Partner Happy & Healthy

Horses may not need heavy-duty blankets in Florida’s mild winter, but they still benefit from proper care:

  • Nutrition: Horses burn more calories in cold weather, so ensure their diet includes plenty of hay to keep them warm from the inside out!
  • Hoof Health: Even in Florida, winter rains can create muddy paddocks. Regular hoof cleaning is a must to prevent thrush.
  • Water: Believe it or not, horses are less likely to drink cold water. Keep it lukewarm to encourage proper hydration.

Pro Tip: Sprinkle some salt into their feed to boost their thirst and ensure they’re staying hydrated.

2. Winter Riding Tips: Stay Cool While Staying Warm

Riding during winter can be incredibly refreshing—if you’re dressed right! Follow these tips:

  • Layer Up: Opt for moisture-wicking base layers under your riding gear to stay warm without overheating.
  • Warm Up Wisely: Horses need extra time to loosen up when it’s cooler. Start with a longer walking warm-up.
  • Ground Check: Frosty mornings can leave ground surfaces slippery. Always check the footing before riding.

Fun Idea: Plan a winter-themed group trail ride! Dress in festive colors and bring along warm drinks to enjoy afterward.

3. Preparing for Spring Competitions: Training Smarter, Not Harder

Winter is the perfect time to focus on conditioning and skill-building for the upcoming competition season.

  • Conditioning: Build your horse’s stamina with long, slow distance rides.
  • Skill Polishing: Use the cooler months to refine techniques, such as lateral movements and transitions.
  • Goal Setting: Set achievable milestones for you and your horse—whether it’s mastering a new skill or increasing fitness levels.

Try This: Write down three goals for the season and stick them on your tack room wall as a daily reminder.

4. Mental and Physical Health: Keep Everyone Energized!

Staying active in winter helps both riders and horses maintain their physical and mental health:

  • Rider Fitness: Staying in shape isn’t just for your horse! Try yoga or strength training to improve balance and core stability.
  • Horse Enrichment: Winter can mean fewer turnout hours. Keep your horse engaged with ground work, pole exercises, and even fun games like “horse soccer.”

Challenge: Host a Cavallo Farms fitness challenge! Track riding hours, goals achieved, or fitness exercises completed—and reward the winners.


Get Involved!

Set Your Goals

Ready to set your winter goals? Use the form below to list your top riding or horse care goals for this season!

Bring this in to us or email us, and we will join you on your journey to completing your goals.

Once you submit your goals, be sure to take action—Cavallo Farms is here to support you every step of the way!


With these tips and a positive mindset, winter at Cavallo Farms can be one of the most rewarding seasons of the year. So, layer up, saddle up, and make this season count!