Winter can be a demanding time for the competition horse. While the competition calendar may ease, training often continues to maintain fitness, strength and consistency. Combined with colder temperatures, increased stabling and reduced grazing, winter places additional pressure on both energy requirements and overall health.

Meeting these demands through nutrition is essential to help competition horses stay comfortable in their work, maintain condition and remain ready to progress as the season approaches.

Increased Energy Requirements in Winter

During colder months, horses use more energy simply to keep warm. For competition horses that remain in work, this added demand sits alongside schooling, fitness work and muscle development. Horses that are clipped or rugged may require even more calories to maintain bodyweight and topline.

Rather than relying on high levels of starch, which can lead to excess energy or digestive upset, winter diets should focus on providing slow-release energy that supports sustained work and helps maintain condition.

Slow-Release Energy for Horses in Work

High oil feeds are particularly effective for competition horses during winter. Oil provides a concentrated source of calories that delivers steady energy, supporting stamina and helping horses cope with increased demands without unwanted sharpness.

Rowen Barbary Condition & Performance contains a high oil blend of Linseed and Soya Oil, supported by key antioxidants. This combination provides slow-release energy to help promote stamina and maintain condition in horses and ponies requiring a higher calorie feed. Linseed also contributes essential fatty acids, supporting skin, coat quality and overall condition—often challenged during winter months.

Digestive Support During Management Changes

Winter routines often involve increased stabling, reduced turnout and changes in forage, all of which can impact digestive health. A healthy gut is essential for efficient nutrient absorption and maintaining energy levels throughout the winter.

To support digestive comfort, Rowen Barbary Condition & Performance includes Calcareous Marine Algae, which acts as a buffer to help reduce acidity in the digestive system. This supports gut health and helps horses make the most of their winter ration.

Nutritional Balance for Overall Health

Competition horses need more than calories alone. A fully balanced diet is vital to support overall health, recovery and vitality during periods of continued work.

Brewers Yeast provides a natural source of B vitamins and amino acids, supporting energy metabolism and muscle function. Added Seaweed and Garlic contribute to overall wellbeing, while a full balance of essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements helps support the horse’s health throughout the winter months.

Encouraging Consistent Feed Intake

Changes in weather and routine can sometimes affect appetite, particularly in fussy feeders. Maintaining consistent feed intake is key to supporting condition and energy levels.

Rowen Barbary Condition & Performance includes Spearmint to enhance palatability, encouraging horses to eat well even during colder periods.

Feeding for Winter Demands and the Season Ahead

Winter feeding plays a vital role in how well a competition horse copes with training demands and transitions into the competitive season. Providing a high oil, fully balanced feed helps support stamina, maintain condition and promote overall health without overloading the digestive system.

By addressing the increased demands placed on the competition horse during winter, Rowen Barbary Condition & Performance helps support horses through the colder months, keeping them well-fuelled, comfortable and ready for the challenges ahead.