In this episode of Show Jumping 101, hosts Sameh El Dahan and Joanne Sloan Allen sit down with Sandra Hughes from SUCCEED, the equine digestive health specialists trusted by riders worldwide.

They explore why gut health is the foundation of performance, behaviour, and overall well-being—and how digestive discomfort can quietly undermine even the best training programmes.

From breeding and foal development to managing ulcers, preventing bad habits, and supporting horses through travel and competition, this is a deep dive into what’s really going on inside your horse—and how to support it.

Whether you’re managing elite sport horses or weekend warriors, this episode is full of practical advice you can apply immediately.

Today’s episode takes a different kind of deep dive – we’re talking about something every horse rider needs, but not everyone gets right: nutrition.

We’re welcoming back Aamir Fit, who you may remember from our episode on rider fitness – this time, we’re tackling rider fuel, from what you eat before a competition, to how nutrition impacts energy, focus, and performance in and out of the ring.

And we’re also joined by Joanne’s daughter, Tabitha Allen – not only a showjumping rider herself, but also a biochemistry student, bringing a great perspective on how what we eat truly affects how we feel and perform.

Together, we discuss everything from meal planning on the road, coping with food intolerances, and avoiding energy crashes, to why riders so often prioritise their horses’ nutrition over their own – and how that needs to change.

It’s a seriously practical, honest, and eye-opening conversation – so whether you’re riding at the top level or just trying to eat better around a hectic yard schedule, this one’s for you.