01/15/2023
Why are we so afraid of movement?
Why are we terrified of horses running, playing, bucking, interacting with other horses etc.
I’ve seen it at almost every barn I’ve ever been to.
Owners afraid their horses are going to hurt themselves.
Limited turnout.
Horses wrapped up like fragile pieces of glass.
The look of fear on an owners face when their horse is acting wild in the field.
What they don’t understand is this mentality is a double edged sword- and here’s why:
The body adapts to natural stressors that it’s exposed to. Meaning, the more the horse is allowed to run and move freely- the stronger and more durable the hooves, joints, tendons, ligaments and muscles become.
From a physiological standpoint, the simple act of allowing the horse freedom and an adequate amount of TIME in turnout (especially with other horses) is an excellent way to strengthen and prevent injury.
The horse was not meant to live a sedentary life. Their bodies were designed to traverse varied terrain for several miles every day.
So even if your horse is getting worked daily- let’s be generous and say an hour of work plus a few hours of turnout to include mostly standing and grazing. This is STILL not enough to put the necessary stressors on the body to help strengthen it.
Additionally, studies show that horses who are allowed 12+ hours of turnout daily have 25% LESS incidence of soft tissue injury.
Takeaway- Movement is good for the horse. It’s not something we should be afraid of. Providing the right lifestyle for the horse is what allows them to flourish.
Author: AB Equine Therapy