As equestrians, we are always looking for the best care and environment for our horses. Whether you are a competitive rider or simply a passionate horse lover, providing a space that supports your horse’s physical, mental, and social well-being is essential.
One increasingly popular option for horse boarding is the track system. Track systems offer a more dynamic and natural way for horses to live and move. But what exactly is a track system, and how can it benefit your horse?
What is a Track System?
A track system consists of a continuous, often circular or oval-shaped loop around the perimeter of the pasture. This encourages horses to move along the track instead of being confined to traditional stalls or small paddocks. Tracks are often equipped with shelter, feeding stations, water “bars,” edible hedges, and sometimes even different surfaces (rock, sand, dirt) to encourage hoof wear over different terrain.
Track systems are designed to offer horses more freedom to roam, trickle feed on low-starch hay, and interact socially with other horses. The primary goal is to create an environment where horses can live as naturally as possible.
1. Tracks Encourage Natural Movement and Healthier Horses
One of the most significant benefits of a track system is the promotion of natural movement. Traditional stall-based boarding often means that horses are confined to a small space for the majority of the day, which can limit their ability to exercise, stretch their muscles, and maintain overall physical health.
In contrast, track systems encourage horses to walk, trot, and canter freely along the track, offering continuous low-impact exercise. This promotes better circulation, joint health, and muscle tone. Horses can move at their own pace, engage in self-exercise, and avoid the boredom and stiffness that can come from standing in a stall for long periods of time.
2. Improved Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Horses are social animals. Traditional boarding options isolate horses in stalls. By allowing horses to see and interact with their herd, a track system helps reduce stress, anxiety, and boredom. Socialization is a key factor in a horse’s mental health, and a track system provides plenty of opportunities for interaction and play.
3. Better Grazing Opportunities
Another standout feature of the track system is that it allows for the track “middle” to be managed for healthier grazing options. While some horses cannot have grass, those that can may be able to seasonally graze on taller, healthier grasses growing in the track middles.
4. Reduced Risk of Stall Vices
Stall vices such as cribbing, weaving, and pawing are common in horses kept in traditional stall environments. These behaviors often stem from boredom, lack of exercise, or stress. In a track system, horses have the ability to move freely, explore their surroundings, and interact with other horses, which can significantly reduce their stress and these unwanted behaviors.
5. Improved Hoof Health
One of the benefits of a track system that often goes overlooked is its effect on hoof health. By encouraging natural movement, track systems promote circulation and wear and tear on the hooves that is much healthier than standing in a stall for prolonged periods of time. Constant movement helps keep the hooves trimmed and strong. Tracks also lessen issues like thrush, abscesses, and soft or cracked hooves.
6. Customizable and Flexible Design
Track systems are highly customizable. They can be designed to fit the needs of your specific horses and your property. Whether you have a small facility with just a few horses or a larger barn with many, a track system can be adjusted to accommodate different sizes, shapes, and layouts.
7. Cost-Effectiveness and Sustainability
Building and maintaining a track system may initially require an investment that pays off. Since horses are moving freely and staying healthier, there may also be fewer veterinary bills related to colic, stress, or injury from lack of movement.
Track systems are also more sustainable. The ability to rotate grazing areas helps maintain better pasture health and halt erosion. Resting pastures can easily have manure from the track applied. This helps boost the natural soil biome and reduce the need for herbicides.
Conclusion: Is a Track System Right for Your Horse?
Boarding a horse on a track system offers a wide array of benefits for both horse and owner. From encouraging natural movement and promoting physical health to reducing stress and offering a more social environment, track systems provide a more holistic and humane way to board your horse. Whether you’re looking to reduce vices, promote better hoof health, or simply provide a more natural living space, track systems offer an alternative that addresses the physical, mental, and social needs of your horse.
Ultimately, track systems can lead to healthier, happier horses—and as equestrians, that’s the most important goal we can strive for.
Have you ever boarded your horse on a track system? Or perhaps you’re considering making the switch? Let us know your thoughts or experiences!
Full Circle Track | Horse Boarding 