Which factor is crucial in maintaining a horse's conditioning for racing?

Training consistency is crucial in maintaining a horse's conditioning for racing because it ensures that the horse is regularly engaged in physical activities that build strength, stamina, and agility. Consistent training helps develop muscle memory and keeps the horse in peak physical condition, allowing it to compete effectively.

When a horse trains regularly, its cardiovascular capacity improves, leading to better endurance during races. Training sessions can be tailored to the horse's needs, allowing for incremental progress and reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, maintaining a structured training schedule reinforces discipline and helps the horse become accustomed to the rigors of competitive racing.

While factors such as genetics, public exposure, and popularity can influence a horse's performance and marketability, they do not directly impact the horse's physical conditioning in the same way that consistent training does. Genetics may determine inherent abilities, but without consistent training, those abilities cannot be fully realized. Public exposure and popularity may create opportunities but are secondary to the physical readiness achieved through disciplined and regular training efforts.