Electrolytes: differences between horse and rider

In the world of endurance, the word electrolytes is often used as if it meant the same thing for everyone.

In reality, horse and rider have very different needs, and confusing them is one of the most common mistakes.

Understanding when, why, and how to use electrolytes correctly often makes the difference between:

• a smooth and steady recovery

• and an avoidable withdrawal due to metabolic issues

Let’s take a clear, practical and evidence-based look at the differences.

WHY ELECTROLYTES ARE CRUCIAL IN ENDURANCE

During an endurance ride:

• the horse sweats much more than the rider

• electrolyte loss is continuous

• the metabolism works for hours under stress

Electrolytes are essential for:

• maintaining fluid balance

• supporting muscle function

• promoting proper cardiac recovery

• reducing the risk of early fatigue

But they don’t work the same way for horse and rider.

ELECTROLYTES IN THE ENDURANCE HORSE: FUNCTION AND PURPOSE

What the Horse Really Loses

Horse sweat is hypertonic, meaning it contains a higher concentration of electrolytes than blood plasma.

The main minerals lost are:

• sodium

• chloride

• potassium

Magnesium is also lost, usually in smaller amounts than the main three.

During a long ride, especially in hot and humid conditions, a horse can lose dozens of liters of sweat, with a drop in body weight of 3–7%.

This means:

• electrolyte loss is rapid

• drinking water alone is not enough to restore balance

What Electrolytes Do for the Horse

In endurance horses, electrolytes help to:

• support muscle function

• maintain metabolic efficiency

• promote recovery at the vet gate

• reduce the risk of fluid-electrolyte imbalances

They are not meant to “boost” the horse, but to allow it to keep working safely.

ELECTROLYTES FOR THE RIDER: A DIFFERENT APPROACH

How the Rider Sweats

Human sweat is hypotonic, so it is less concentrated than horse sweat.

Electrolyte loss is:

• more gradual

• influenced by weather, intensity, and clothing

• often underestimated in long rides

Why Electrolytes Matter for Riders

For riders, electrolytes mainly help to:

• prevent early fatigue

• support focus and mental clarity

• reduce cramps and energy dips

• stay mentally sharp in the final hours

The mental component is crucial: even mild dehydration can negatively affect focus and decision-making.

When to Take Them: Not Just Before

For riders, hydration and electrolyte intake must be ongoing throughout the ride, especially in the middle and final stages, when physical and mental fatigue increases.

Drinking only before or after the competition is often not enough.

An Overlooked Risk: Drinking Only Water

A common mistake among riders is drinking large amounts of water without replacing the salts lost through sweat.

This can lead to an electrolyte imbalance (hyponatremia), negatively affecting:

• energy

• concentration

• the ability to make sound decisions

Hydration and electrolytes must always work together.

WHY HORSE AND RIDER CANNOT FOLLOW THE SAME STRATEGY

A common misunderstanding is thinking:

“If it works for the horse, it works for me.”

The main differences concern:

• sweat composition

• absorption times

• metabolic goals

• supplementation methods

Different strategies, same goal: reaching the finish line in the best possible condition.

ELECTROLYTES AND THE ENDURANCE PHILOSOPHY: TO FINISH IS TO WIN

Electrolytes are not a shortcut or a race trick.

They are a tool for management and prevention.

Proper use allows you to:

• reduce unnecessary risks

• improve recovery quality

• increase the chance of finishing the ride

And this fits perfectly with the endurance philosophy:

To Finish Is To Win.

Explore our selection of electrolytes for endurance horses and hydration solutions for riders, tested in both training and competition.

The information in this article is based on veterinary guidelines and research in the field of endurance riding.

It does not replace professional veterinary advice, but helps riders make more informed decisions.