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Competition28 April 2026 Β· 7 min read

The Miraclay protocol: before, during and after competition

Using Miraclay products in the right way and at the right moment makes the difference. This is the protocol we use ourselves and the one recommended by the FISE technicians who work with us.

The philosophy of the protocol

A natural product is not a magic pill that works on its own. It is a tool that, set within a structured and consistent routine, amplifies the horse's natural recovery processes. The Miraclay protocol is designed to integrate with your daily management, not to replace it.

The principle is simple: prepare, protect, recover, maintain. Four phases, specific products for each, clear frequencies.

Phase 1: Preparation (pre-competition week)

Limbs: ArgiStrong Cretata

In the week leading up to the competition, intensify ArgiStrong applications to 5 times out of 7. The goal is to have the limbs in optimal condition at the moment of the competition: tendons perfectly fresh, no residual tension, active circulation.

Recommended application: after every training session, for 60–90 minutes. The evening before the competition, apply and leave on overnight.

Stomach: Equilibrium

Pre-competition stress β€” transport, the change of environment, the intensification of training β€” puts the stomach under pressure. Make sure you have an Equilibrium cycle active in the 2–4 weeks before the season. If you haven't done so, start at least 7–10 days before the important competition.

Phase 2: Competition day

Morning (if there is enough time)

  • Apply ArgiStrong to the limbs if you have at least 2–3 hours before entering the arena
  • Remove completely with water before saddling up
  • Continue with Equilibrium in the morning feed
ImportantDo not apply the clay pack in the 2 hours immediately before the competition. Always prefer clean, dry limbs for the competition.

Between rounds (multi-discipline or long competitions)

If you have breaks of at least 3 hours between one round and the next, you can apply ArgiStrong during the break and remove it before the following round. It is a technique frequently used in endurance events and in competitions with several daily rounds.

Phase 3: Post-competition recovery (24–72 hours)

Post-competition recovery is the most critical phase. This is where the horse's long-term resilience is built.

Immediate return to the stable: ClayPower Arnica

As soon as the horse returns to the stable, after the shower and drying off, apply ClayPower Arnica to all four limbs. The fat-soluble Arnica boosts the action of the clay for swelling and the post-effort inflammatory response. Leave on overnight.

“After every important competition, ClayPower for 3 consecutive nights. I no longer have leg problems the next day.” β€” Giulia T., international groom

Day 1 post-competition: ArgiStrong

The day after the competition, resume ArgiStrong for recovery. The horse needs to return to a stable routine. Apply after the recovery work (walking, light lunging) for 60–90 minutes.

Stomach: continue with Equilibrium

Never interrupt Equilibrium in the immediate post-competition period. Transport and competition stress leaves a gastric “tail” for 48–72 hours. Maintain the full dose for at least a week after every important competition.

Phase 4: Weekly maintenance

Out of season or during periods of light training, maintain a basic routine:

  • ArgiStrong: 2–3 weekly applications after the main training sessions
  • Equilibrium: maintenance dose (25–30g/day) or every other day
  • Hoof Clay Nutritive: twice a week for hoof care (in summer)
  • Districante Criniera: after every bath and in the weekly grooming routine

The kit for the competition bag

What to always bring to a competition:

  • ArgiStrong Cretata (4kg size or the 200g for short trips)
  • ClayPower Arnica (always, for the post-competition)
  • Equilibrium (for the evening feed at the competition)
  • Fiaccatura (for areas at risk of rubbing while away)
  • Bucket, sponge, towel

With this kit you are ready to manage your horse completely: before, during and after every performance.

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