11/08/2026
Every time the hoof meets the ground, concussive shock waves are transferred through the limbs and body. On harder surfaces, these forces are enhanced, potentially increasing the strain placed on the muscles, tendons and joints.
For horses regularly working on hard ground, this may contribute to increased muscle tension, soreness and compensatory movement patterns โ particularly when combined with a high workload.
How Can You Help Your Horse?
๐ด Spend more time in walk
Walking generally creates less impact than faster work while still providing valuable movement and exercise.
๐ฆถ Stay up to date with farrier visits
Regular farrier visits helps maintain appropriate hoof balance and symmetry, supporting healthy movement and helping distribute the forces evenly through each limb.
๐ซ Avoid jumping and fast work on unsuitable ground
If the ground is excessively hard, uneven or unsuitable, consider avoiding jumping, cantering and other high-impact work until conditions improve
๐ Consider alternative surfaces
Where possible, use a suitable arena, gallop track or other purpose-prepared surface for faster work rather than working on hard ground.
๐ Listen to your horse
Pay attention to changes in the way your horse moves or behaves. Stiffness, a shortened stride, reluctance to work, changes in performance or increased muscle tension can all be signs that your horse may not be coping well with their current workload or conditions.
If you notice a change, don't simply push through it. Adjust your plans and give your horse the time and support they need.
Remember...
Your horse doesn't have to be visibly lame for them to be uncomfortable.
Horses are incredibly good at compensating, and subtle changes in movement or muscle tension can sometimes develop before an obvious problem appears.
Regular bodywork can be a valuable part of your horse's preventative care, helping to identify areas of increased tension, soreness or compensation alongside appropriate veterinary, farriery and training care ๐
