Table 1: Average time course for structural and physiological adaptations to exercise training in horses.
Adaptation Time Course
Increase in VO2MAX 1 - 2 weeks
Increase in plasma volume 1 - 2 weeks
Improved sweating response 1 - 2 weeks
Increase in red blood cells & haemoglobin 2 - 4 months
Increase in muscle capillaries 3 - 6 months
Increase in muscle mitochondria 4 - 6 months
Increase in muscle aerobic enzymes 4 - 6 months
Increase in bone density* 4 - 6 months
Strengthening of tendons and ligaments* 4 - 6 months
*Available research on training adaptations of supporting structures is limited.