Targeted conditioning improves overall circulatory efficiency by building which structures?

Targeted conditioning improves overall circulatory efficiency primarily by enhancing the development of capillaries. Capillaries are the tiny blood vessels that connect arteries and veins, facilitating the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and tissues. An increase in capillary density within muscle tissue allows for more efficient oxygen delivery and waste removal during exercise, which in turn supports better performance and endurance in horses.

As horses undergo targeted conditioning, their bodies adapt by producing more capillaries, allowing for heightened metabolic activity and improved stamina. This enhanced network of capillaries ensures that muscles receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen while efficiently removing toxins like lactic acid, which can build up during exertion. This process is vital for maintaining optimal performance and health in equine athletes.