When do you place a horse under the solarium?

An equine solarium is used at specific moments to support the horse during training, recovery, and daily care. The warmth of infrared lamps stimulates blood circulation and helps the muscles to relax. The timing of use largely determines the effect.

Before training: preparing the muscles

Before riding, a short session of approximately 5 to 10 minutes can help prepare the body for exercise. This contributes to:

• loosening stiff muscles;

• activating blood circulation;

• reducing the risk of injury.

In practice, many riders place their horse under a Q-Line MaXuSS Thera or Mercurr while saddling up. This allows the horse to start training with warm, more supple muscles.

After training: recovery and relaxation

After intensive work, training, or a longer ride, a solarium supports the recovery process. The warmth helps to:

• remove waste products such as lactic acid more quickly;

• reduce muscle soreness;

• gradually lower the heart rate.

A session of approximately 10 to 15 minutes allows the horse to relax and helps keep the muscles supple.

After washing: faster and safer drying

When a horse returns to the stable wet, there is a risk of cooling down too quickly. The warmth of the solarium dries the coat in a short time while keeping the skin and muscles at a stable temperature. With Q-Line solariums equipped with integrated fans, drying is faster and more even.

Daily wellness or rehabilitation

Outside training moments, a solarium can also be part of a regular care routine, for example:

• for older horses with stiffer muscles;

• during rehabilitation after an injury;

• as a daily moment of relaxation.

Regular use in short sessions can have a positive effect on muscle elasticity, recovery, and the horse’s overall well-being.

When not to use a solarium

There are situations in which the use of a solarium is not recommended, such as:

• in cases of fever or active inflammation;

• immediately after clipping, when the skin is more sensitive;

• during very high outdoor temperatures.

More information?

Would you like to better understand what an equine solarium is and how it contributes to recovery and well-being? Read the article What is an equine solarium and how does it work?. In the article How high should an equine solarium be installed? we explain the ideal height and what to consider in the stable.