Step-by-step lesson
Cool Down After a Ride
A simple cool-down routine that supports horse comfort and recovery.
CareRiding10 min5 steps
Before you start
Complete these lessons first
What you need
Equipment
After Riding
- Cool down at walk
- Untack with help
- Quick groom
- Put gear away neatly
Step by step
Walk calmly for a few minutes on instructor guidance.
Check: Breathing starts to slow.
Notice sweat and breathing. Tell an adult if it seems unusual.
Check: I checked both.
Offer water only when your instructor says it’s okay.
Check: I asked first.
If rinsing, use a sweat scraper gently to remove extra water.
Check: Coat is not dripping.
End with a calm scratch at the withers (if the horse likes it).
Check: Horse looks relaxed.
Common mistakes
- Stopping too suddenly
- Forgetting to check breathing
Coach cues
- Slow down to cool down.
Stop and get help if
- Horse is breathing very fast after rest
- Horse seems dizzy
Key terms
Next lessons
In the news
Recent Horse Academy stories on this topic.