Horseback riding is more than a sport. For many, it’s a lifelong passion. But behind every successful rider is a horse doing the heavy lifting — quite literally. Whether it’s a child learning to trot or an experienced rider practicing jumps, the horse is the one absorbing the physical toll. Nowhere is that more evident than in jumping disciplines.
At WildHeart Riding School in Geneva, Florida — just 8 minutes from Oviedo Mall and 30 minutes from downtown Orlando — we understand the responsibility of maintaining not just the performance of our horses, but also their long-term health. Especially when it comes to horses that have been trained for or previously competed in jumping.
This article explores what happens to a horse’s body after regular jumping, what kind of care is required to keep them feeling and performing their best, and how we go above and beyond for our horses — even when they’ve retired from active sport.
Jumping might look graceful and effortless from the outside, but each jump delivers significant impact to the horse’s joints, tendons, ligaments, and spine. Repeated landings — especially on harder footing or from greater heights — can lead to long-term wear on critical areas such as:
While healthy horses are built to handle some level of impact, ongoing jumping — whether in competition or high-intensity training — gradually accumulates stress. Over time, this may result in joint inflammation, cartilage breakdown, early arthritis, or reduced mobility.
The result? Even the most athletic horses eventually need recovery time, advanced treatment, and customized care plans to continue performing and riding comfortably.
At WildHeart Riding School, some of our horses are former show horses. They’ve spent years competing, training hard, and carrying riders through intense jumping patterns. While their competition days may be behind them, these horses still have plenty to give — and with the right care, they continue teaching our students with joy, purpose, and energy.
But it doesn’t happen by accident.
Horses that have done extensive jumping almost always require joint injections over time. These injections help reduce inflammation, increase mobility, and relieve pain in high-impact areas like the hocks or stifles.
We work closely with equine veterinarians to assess each horse’s specific needs. Injections aren’t given casually. We track performance, sensitivity, and how each horse feels under saddle. When it’s time for support, we act with precision.
Good care doesn’t start when a horse is limping — it starts long before that. Our approach includes:
These aren’t just luxuries. They’re necessary components of responsible horse care for any facility using horses for lessons or riding programs.
Not every horse needs to jump every day. Some horses at WildHeart used to jump competitively but now only work in light flatwork lessons or lead-line sessions with younger riders.
We carefully match the horse with the right type of rider based on their current condition. If a horse is better suited for walking and trotting with beginners, we don’t push them for more.
This respect for what each horse can still offer — instead of what they used to do — is part of our philosophy. Performance may change with age, but purpose never does.
Our horses are not disposable tools. They’re not here just to serve the next lesson. At WildHeart, horses are treated like partners. Many of them have given years of their life to riders. It’s our job to make sure those years are honored with proper care, especially after their most intense work is done.
Jumping horses are athletes. Just like human athletes, they deserve rest, rehab, and respectful use in their later years.
That includes:
When all of this is done right, horses can remain healthy, happy, and active into their twenties.
Several horses at WildHeart have officially retired from jumping or high-impact training. That doesn’t mean they’re forgotten. In fact, some of our best lesson horses are retired athletes.
They might no longer soar over fences, but they still:
These horses are now in what we call their “wisdom phase.” They’re reliable, seasoned, and safe. They’ve done the hard work — and now they get to pass on what they know in a more relaxed setting.
And because we invest in their medical care, joint maintenance, and comfort, they’re still thriving.
It’s not just about movement — it’s about connection. Horses who’ve retired from jumping often develop deeper relationships with their riders. Their calmer, more mature energy makes them exceptional teachers for people just starting their horseback riding journey.
They read people well. They’re patient with little mistakes. They stand still while a child fumbles with a stirrup or needs help tightening a girth. These are the moments that matter in a riding school.
And the only reason those moments happen is because we take care of the horses first.
Whether you’re a parent of a student, a casual rider, or an aspiring show jumper, understanding what horses go through is key to being a responsible partner in the saddle.
Here’s what we want you to remember:
At WildHeart Riding School, we don’t just ride horses — we preserve them.
If you’ve ever wanted to ride a horse that used to fly over fences, or you want your child to learn from a seasoned athlete, we invite you to visit us.
Some of our most beloved horses are ex-jumpers with a lot of stories to tell and still plenty of love to give. And they’re proof that with the right care, horses can have a second (or even third) chapter in their life — one filled with happiness, connection, and new memories.
Location:
WildHeart Riding School
3287 N County Rd 426
Geneva, FL 32732
(8 minutes from Oviedo Mall, 30 minutes from downtown Orlando)
We offer private and group riding lessons for all ages. Whether you’re new to riding or returning after years away, we’re here — with horses that are ready to welcome you.
