A well-developed topline and healthy muscle tone in young horses will have a positive impact in the sales ring, but also on a horse’s soundness and athletic ability. Research has shown that low-intensity exercise during the first year of a thoroughbred yearling’s life induces muscle adaptations that positively influence athletic performance later in life.

Topline refers to the muscle structure running from the poll, down the neck, over the back and into the hindquarters. As equine muscle contains more than 70% protein, meeting protein requirements during this intensive growth period is essential for sound development.

A diet containing the right level of high-quality protein is fundamental for muscle development.

Protein quality is just as important as quantity, while adequate energy ensures horses can perform and train effectively. Key vitamins and minerals also support normal muscle function, helping to reduce premature fatigue. Exercise stimulates muscle conditioning, while a balanced diet provides the amino acid building blocks needed to build and repair healthy muscle.Young horses cannot develop topline and muscle effectively unless they maintain appropriate body condition. Yearlings entering prep with lower body condition scores, or those struggling to maintain condition as workloads increase, can benefit from a high-fat conditioning pellet.

Connolly’s RED MILLS Define & Shine is a quality top-up feed for horses requiring weight gain and topline support. Its amino acid profile uniquely mirrors the ratio of horse muscle to support growth and development.

High levels of omega-3-rich oils increase calorie density while supporting coat condition and overall wellbeing. As a low-starch feed, Define & Shine delivers extra calories in a small volume. Introduce gradually and feed 200–400g daily throughout prep alongside a balanced diet.

Exercising yearlings have increased protein requirements that forage alone is unlikely to meet. Connolly’s RED MILLS Stud Cubes or Stud Mix provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids to support developing horses. Where a low-starch diet is required, the Connolly’s RED MILLS Horse Care Range is recommended.

Support the sales workload with Foran Equine

Supporting muscle development

Weak individuals struggling to develop topline can benefit from a pre-digested protein supplement such as Foran Equine Muscle Prep. Muscle Prep provides all essential amino acids to support rapid muscle development, together with vitamin E to aid exercise recovery and B vitamins to promote appetite while supporting protein and energy metabolism.

Supporting muscle recovery

The increased workload during sales preparation can lead to muscle stiffness and soreness due to oxidative damage caused by exercise-induced free radical production. Antioxidants help support muscle recovery by neutralising excess free radicals. Foran Equine Muscle Max combines vitamin E, selenium, lysine and B vitamins to help reduce cellular damage and support recovery of tired muscles.