Are there downsides to exercising horses on sand?

Summertime has finally arrived here in Cork, and we can’t wait to get out for a beach hack, but did you know that exercising your horse in deep sand can lead to injury?

While sand is often seen as a soft and forgiving surface, and is very commonly used as an arena surface, it can actually pose a risk to the health and well-being of our equine companions. When horses are worked in deep sand, they are at risk of developing tendon and ligament injuries due to the increased strain on their muscles and joints. The unstable nature of deep sand can also cause horses to lose their balance and potentially trip or stumble, leading to falls and potential injuries. Additionally, the repetitive motion of working out in deep sand can put excessive stress on a horse’s body, leading to fatigue and overuse injuries.

To prevent these issues, it is important to carefully monitor the amount of time your horse spends exercising in deep sand and ensure that proper conditioning techniques are used to build strength and endurance gradually. Exercise therapy can help to build strength and stability in horses. By incorporating exercise therapy into your horse’s routine, you can help them develop stronger muscles, increase endurance, and prevent injuries. At All Creatures, we can prescribe a bespoke exercise plan to meet the specific needs of your horse based on their age, breed, discipline, and current fitness level. These exercises will not only help to improve muscle tone but also enhance cardiovascular fitness and proprioception.

We also recommend pairing exercise prescription with regular manual therapy to reduce pain and release tension in your horse’s muscles and joints. Manual therapy, which makes use of techniques such as massage, stretching and myofascial release can improve a horse’s range of motion, strength and flexibility, which are essential for performance and injury prevention.

Here at All Creatures, we can help to keep your beloved equine companion happy and healthy for years to come. If you feel your animal could benefit from our services, and would like to discuss their needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!