You can have the best picks in the world, but without bankroll management, you won’t stay in the game. Whether you’re betting $5 or $500, knowing how much to wager — and when — is what separates lucky punters from consistent winners. At MyWinners, managing your bankroll means making smarter decisions, riding out losing streaks, and being ready when the odds swing in your favour.
What is bankroll management in horse racing?
What is bankroll management in horse racing?
Bankroll management is the strategy of allocating your betting funds in a way that maximises longevity and minimises the risk of going broke. It’s about discipline, not guessing.
The key ideas:
Only bet a small percentage of your total bankroll on any one race
Adjust your bet size based on confidence and edge
Track your performance so you can identify leaks and improve over time
Never chase losses — stick to your plan
Basic rules of bankroll discipline
Basic rules of bankroll discipline
Set a dedicated bankroll for racing — never mix it with bills or savings
Limit individual race bets to 1–5% of total bankroll
Don’t increase stakes during losing streaks — that’s tilt
Reassess your unit size weekly or monthly based on performance
Use a simple log or spreadsheet to track bets, ROI, and types of wagers
Fixed stake vs variable stake approaches
Fixed stake vs variable stake approaches
Fixed stake: Bet the same amount each time — great for beginners
Variable stake: Adjust based on confidence, overlay, or sequence risk — used by pros
Hybrid models can also work — like fixed win bets, but scaled multi-race wagers
Why bankroll management keeps you in the game
Why bankroll management keeps you in the game
Even the best bettors lose 60% or more of their bets. If you go all-in on a hunch and lose, you’re out. With proper management, you stay liquid, stick to strategy, and avoid panic plays.
💡 Did You Know? Legendary horseplayer Dick Mitchell once said, “Money management is more important than picking winners.” The math agrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I start with in my betting bankroll?
How much should I start with in my betting bankroll?
Start with an amount you can afford to lose. For beginners, $100–$200 is plenty to learn, using small consistent bets.
Should I bet more if I feel really confident?
Should I bet more if I feel really confident?
Not always. Confidence isn’t accuracy. Let the value and your bankroll guide bet sizing — not emotions.
Can I track my bankroll inside MyWinners?
Can I track my bankroll inside MyWinners?
While MyWinners doesn’t have built-in bankroll tracking, you can easily log your wagers, wins, and losses using free apps or spreadsheets.
What’s the most common bankroll mistake?
What’s the most common bankroll mistake?
Chasing losses or doubling bets during a cold streak. It leads to faster burnout and emotional betting.
Is it okay to take a break during a losing streak?
Is it okay to take a break during a losing streak?
Absolutely — stepping back helps you reset mentally and stick to long-term strategy instead of spiralling.