You have probably heard about track systems in some form or another. They are often associated with horses or ponies that need dietary management for conditions such as equine metabolic syndrome or Cushing (PPID). While they are indeed a really good way to manage these conditions they can also be really useful in improving movement in horses.
So you maybe thinking ‘well my horses moves plenty and doesn’t need a controlled diet!’ But does your horse or pony move with purpose? Quite often when you see horses in pasture they move slowly as they graze, often lifting their legs a minimal amount. The nature of a track system encourages movement as they move from one forage station to another. This movement between stations often involves more range of movement as it is more engaged and active.
Tracks can also be made with obstacles that horse have to step, jump or manoeuvre around. It can have turns and bends in multiple directions. This encourages lifting of the limbs, lateral bending, shifting of the body and core engagement. Sometimes horses only get these movement patterns when being ridden or playing with other horse.
By performing these movement patterns everyday the horse is encouraged to use their bodies, in essence they are conditioning themselves, which will allow them to perform ridden exercises with more ease and potentially reduce the occurrence of injuries.
Having a track system is time consuming and uses more hay. However the benefits outweigh the work. I have had my herd on a track system for the last 3 months. Originally the plan was to have them on there during spring and summer to take them off the grass when it has the highest amount of sugars. After the summer we had, with little rain there wasn’t enough grass for winter grazing so the track was implemented.
I have to say the benefits have been better than expected. The herds hoof health has improved. Herd dynamics have become more cohesive, there is less guard resourcing especially considering it is winter. One herd member has stopped paddock hopping and their digestive health has improved. The older herd members have improved mobility and herd fitness has improved despite not being ridden much this winter.
Track systems are not possible for everyone but potentially for livery yards it could be a great way to utilise space and allow horses to live in a more natural environment than they currently do. Track systems offer freedom, forage and friends which all help improve horse wellbeing and welfare.
Pollyanna FitzGerald (Msc³, Bsc² (Hons), EBW, MMAA, MRAMP) 