Why Morning Workouts Matter: A Look Behind the Scenes

For most fans, race day begins in the afternoon, but for the horses and the teams behind them, the work starts at sunrise. In fact, some of the most telling and revealing moments happen in the early morning hours, long before the starting gate is even loaded.

Morning training, often referred to as “works” or “breezes,” is where racehorses stay fit, sharpen their speed, and develop rhythm. On any given day, dozens of horses will take to the track between sunrise and late morning, following carefully timed schedules that align with their conditioning plans and upcoming races.

The routine typically begins around 5:00 or 5:30 a.m. Trainers, grooms, and exercise riders arrive early to prepare their horses for gallops, jogs, or timed breezes. Gallops are longer, more aerobic sessions, while breezes are faster drills meant to simulate race conditions. Not all horses breeze every day. In fact, a breeze is usually done once a week or less depending on the horse’s fitness level and schedule.

Tracks usually have designated “breaks” when the surface is harrowed and maintained, dividing the morning into training intervals. Some barns prefer to send their horses out before the break when the track is quieter, while others wait until after when conditions are more consistent.

What makes morning training so special is the access. Unlike race day, when horses are behind barricades and under pressure, mornings allow for a more intimate look. At major venues like Saratoga and Del Mar, fans can stand by the rail and watch as young prospects, stakes contenders, and seasoned veterans go through their paces. It is one of the few times the curtain is pulled back on an otherwise high-stakes environment.

There is no grandstand noise, no betting windows, and no rush to find your seat. Just the sound of hooves hitting the dirt, the calm voices of riders, and the occasional outburst from a spirited colt who is eager to do more than asked. It is a side of racing that feels pure, grounded, and in some ways even more honest than what happens at post time.

For those who love the sport or want to deepen their appreciation of it, watching morning works can offer a new perspective. You begin to notice the small differences between horses, the way each carries itself, the connection between rider and mount, and the focus required just to keep them mentally and physically sharp.

Whether you are a long-time racing fan or a newcomer trying to understand the rhythm of the game, setting your alarm a little earlier and catching morning training is well worth it. Racing is not just what happens in the afternoon. The foundation is laid long before the gates ever open.