Training and Competing on Hard Ground and Its Effects on the Horse

Introduction

With the competition season in full swing and this very dry weather we are having, many riders find themselves training on ground conditions that are less than ideal. While hard ground might appear harmless, repeated work on such surfaces can have significant effects on a horse’s musculoskeletal system. This blog delves into the science behind how hard ground affects the horse, the potential for injury, and what you can do to mitigate these risks.

The Biomechanical Effects of Hard Ground on Horses

Hard surfaces alter the biomechanics of a horse’s movement. When a horse’s hoof strikes a rigid surface, it produces higher peak ground reaction forces compared to softer footing. According to Parkes et al. (2015) in the Equine Veterinary Journal, these higher forces lead to increased concussion up the limb, particularly affecting joints such as the fetlock, carpus (knee), and the distal interphalangeal joint (coffin joint).

The repetitive concussive forces can lead to:

• Microtrauma in bones and cartilage
• Joint inflammation (synovitis)
• Tendon and ligament strain, especially in the superficial digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament
• Early onset of degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis)

Is There a Real Risk of Injury?

Yes. A study by Murray et al. (2006) found that event horses training regularly on firm ground had a significantly higher incidence of suspensory ligament injuries. Another report by Witte et al. (2011) suggested that training on harder ground contributes to increased risk of stress fractures, especially in younger or less conditioned horses.

While not every horse will show immediate signs of lameness, repeated loading on unyielding surfaces causes cumulative damage—making injuries more likely over time.

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Shortened stride or reluctance to move forward
• Swelling or heat in joints or tendons
• Inconsistent performance or behavioral changes under saddle
• Sensitivity to palpation or joint flexion

Recovery and Preventative Measures

1. Vary the Surface

Avoid working on the same surface every day. Incorporate grass, sand arenas, and hacking on varied surfaces to reduce repetitive strain on the same structures.

2. Shoeing

Consult with your farrier about shock-absorbing shoeing options such as pads or rubber inserts, which can help reduce concussion.

3. Active Recovery

Use light hacking or walking in hand after hard workouts to encourage circulation and reduce stiffness. The use of horse ice boots can also minimize inflammation. Cryochaps have ice wraps for horses that cover all major tendons and ligaments in the lower leg and there are versions that can be used on the knee, hock, fetlock and hoof.

4. Surface Management

If you ride on an arena, maintain it well. Deep harrowing or watering the surface can reduce hardness. For those competing on cross-country or turf, consider adjusting your training schedule after a particularly hard run.

5. Veterinary and Physio Support and Monitoring

Regular check-ups and physio treatments, especially during a busy training season, allow early detection of overuse injuries.

6. Conditioning and Periodization

Gradual build-up in workload and regular rest days allow tissue to adapt and repair. Avoid sudden increases in intensity or duration of work

Conclusion

Training and competing on hard ground is sometimes unavoidable, but it does carry inherent risks. Understanding the science behind these effects allows horse owners and riders to make informed decisions. By incorporating surface variation, proper hoof care, and post-exercise recovery practices, to include inflammation management with horse ice boots, you can help keep your horse sound, comfortable, and performing at their best throughout the season.

References:

• Parkes, R. S. V., Weller, R., Groth, A. M., May, S. A., & Pfau, T. (2015). Evidence of altered biomechanics in horses with induced forelimb lameness using hoof-mounted inertial sensors. Equine Veterinary Journal.
• Murray, R. C., Walters, J. M., Snart, H., Dyson, S. J., & Parkin, T. D. (2006). Identification of risk factors for lameness in dressage horses. Equine Veterinary Journal.
• Witte, T. H., Hirst, C. V., & Augarde, C. E. (2011). The effect of surface stiffness on the stride parameters of galloping horses. The Veterinary Journal.