The Clydesdales are fed, have clean stalls and are ready to go, but where? Being part of a traveling hitch means the cherished horses will tour several states each year. Therefore, in order to maintain great health and optimal condition, each hitch must get regular exercise. Though the Clydesdales get exercise every day, the kind of exercise they will receive depends on where they are being stabled. Ideally, handlers will seek turnouts and pastures where the horses can graze, kick up their heels, run, and interact socially. This is typically the best choice for the traveling Clydesdales. However, turnouts are not always present at all barns so they get walked as an alternative.

Although the timing varies depending on the show schedule, the horses are usually exercised about an hour every morning.  Additionally, the Clydesdales get exercise pulling the Budweiser wagon when they are hitched for events. This daily exercise regimen allows the horses to remain in tip-top shape in order to pull heavy loads and cargo with little effort. Although exercise makes the Clydesdales strong and robust, the daily dose of exercise has many more benefits.

In addition to promoting physical health, daily exercise helps to support the emotional and behavioral health of the Budweiser Clydesdales as well. Veterinarians recommend a minimum of one hour of exercise for stabled horses. This ensures that the horses are content and stress-free. Through different forms of exercise, these magnificent horses are able to release energy, which in turn leads to a more cooperative and less irritable mood. This is crucial to the well-being of every hitch as well as to the overall success of travel and interactions with handlers and spectators.

However, while the beautiful Clydesdales are ready to get out and exercise every day, they are also ready to get back to their clean stalls after they have galloped and pranced freely ‘til their hearts’ content. There they are able to unwind, relax and recover. In each stall the horses find everything they need for happy recreation no matter where the hitch goes. Hay, water, and fans (when needed) are always provided. Through this tender loving care, the Clydesdales are able to bring the excellence of Budweiser to cities across the nation every year.