AQHA MAGAZINE March / April 2020 AQHA March-April 2020 PRINT (1)High Res | Page 31

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no significant increases in muscle size occurs, due to
lack of stimulation of muscle protein synthesis. On the
other hand, both insufficient rest and exercise that is
too intense inhibit protein synthesis and reduce the
potential for muscle recovery and growth.
The interaction of amino acids with vitamins and
minerals is necessary for improved muscle growth
and repair, stronger supportive tissues, improved
carbohydrate metabolism, stronger bones and joints,
thicker hoof walls and greater overall soundness.
Overtraining syndrome is more often a consequence
of increased training intensity rather than increased
training volume. Horses suffering from overtraining
syndrome can enter a catabolic state where body tissues
are broken down, resulting in weight loss. Overtraining
occurs when work exceeds fitness level or there is
insufficient recovery time between work sessions. Signs
that a horse may be developing overtraining syndrome
include weight loss despite adequate food intake, loss
of appetite, dry coat, dull eye, loss of enthusiasm for
work, slower times, longer recovery, colic and nervous
disorders. Athletic performance decreases and horses
must reduce work or be spelled for various periods
of time for recovery. Muscle fitness doesn’t decline
significantly for almost 6 weeks after training stops
– unlike us where 2 weeks without exercise reduces
muscle mass and strength! This means we can provide
horses with short breaks of a week or more of reduced
work between periods of more intense work. Periods
of recovery during training actually improve the
effectiveness of conditioning programs. Maintaining
nutrient intake is important during spells.
No matter how balanced the diet, exercise causes a
disruption to normal cellular processes - creating a need
for specific nutritional support. Fatigue is frequently
attributed to ‘running out of energy’ – however as well
as sustained energy, performance depends on a strong
and athletic body – and this requires protein with the
correct amino acid balance. The fastest most powerful
car is not the one with the biggest fuel tank – it is the
engine size that matters. Muscle is the ‘engine in horses’
– and muscle building requires protein.
Nutrition is a powerful tool when used properly and
recovery from hard exercise and preparation for the
next work session can be hastened by strategic feeding
management. Nutritional strategies must include protein
to facilitate quick recovery because it is during recovery
that protein will be working hardest - repairing rips and
tears that occur during training, increasing muscle fibre
size and creating new red cells and blood capillaries.
All content provided in this editorial is for general use and information only and does not constitute advice or
veterinary opinion. The content does not consider individual circumstances, is not intended as a substitute for advice,
and should not be relied upon as advice or in place of consultation with your equine veterinarian.
For full disclaimer, please refer to our website: www.jenquine.com
MARCH/APRIL ISSUE 2020