Competition season puts enormous demands on your horse — physically, mentally, and metabolically. The right supplementation programme won't replace good training and management, but it can make the difference between a horse that arrives at the venue tense and reactive versus one that steps off the lorry focused and ready to work.
We asked James Whitmore, a BHSAI instructor with over 15 years of experience working with competition horses at all levels, to share the five supplements he considers non-negotiable for any horse in serious work.
1. A Quality Magnesium Calmer
Magnesium deficiency is remarkably common in horses on modern grass-based diets, and the symptoms — spookiness, tension, difficulty concentrating — are often mistaken for behavioural problems. A good magnesium-based calmer addresses the root cause rather than masking the symptom.
✦ Recommended Product
NAF Five Star Magic has been the UK's best-selling calmer for over two decades. It combines magnesium with B vitamins and a proprietary herbal blend to support a calm, focused temperament without sedation.
"I've seen horses transform within two weeks of starting a magnesium supplement. It's not a magic fix, but for horses that are genuinely deficient, the change can be remarkable."
— James Whitmore, BHSAI
2. A Herbal Calming Formula for Competition Days
Even a naturally calm horse can become anxious in the competition environment — the noise, the lorry journey, the unfamiliar surroundings. A targeted herbal formula given on the day can take the edge off without affecting performance or violating competition rules.
✦ Recommended Product
Global Herbs SuperCalm is an award-winning formula trusted by thousands of riders for exactly this purpose. It's competition-legal and can be given in the feed or as a syringe on the day.
3. A Vitamin & Mineral Balancer
Most horses on a forage-based diet are missing key micronutrients. A good balancer fills those gaps without adding unnecessary calories — essential for horses that are already on a high-energy competition diet.
✦ Recommended Product
Dodson & Horrell Stud Balancer provides a comprehensive vitamin and mineral profile in a low-intake format. Vet-recommended and suitable for horses in hard work.
4. Joint Support
Any horse in regular work — especially jumping or dressage — is placing significant stress on joints, tendons, and ligaments. Starting joint support early, before problems develop, is far more effective than waiting for stiffness to appear. Look for formulas containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM.
5. Electrolytes for Recovery
Horses lose significant electrolytes through sweat during competition, and failure to replace them can lead to fatigue, muscle cramping, and poor recovery. Electrolyte supplementation is particularly important in warmer months or after cross-country phases.
✦ Expert Tip
Pro Tip: Always introduce new supplements gradually over 7–10 days to allow your horse's digestive system to adjust. And check every supplement against the FEI/British Equestrian prohibited substances list before a competition.
Getting your horse's nutrition right is one of the most impactful investments you can make in your competition season. Pair it with the right kit from our sale — up to 40% off top brands — and you'll be heading to the start line in style.
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