Owners swapping traditional grazing for track system

Track systems are a little unconventional compared to the methods of most modern horse owners. The concept sees horses turned out on a track around the perimeter of a field, rather than in the traditional square shaped paddocks we so often see, in a bid to mimic horses’ natural lifestyles by encouraging continual movement and herd living.

Track life’s been proven to suit a variety of horses, many of which had been deemed unsuitable for turnout due to lameness, weight issues, laminitis or anxiety but, due to their change in lifestyle, have pulled through stronger than ever.

As the track movement’s a fairly new concept, there’s still some mystery surrounding the practice. So, H&R has spoken to some of the readers making it work for their horses.

Did you know?

Tracks are a highly economical use of land because they require markedly fewer acres to set up than other grazing methods.

The three Fs

Track systems are based around the three Fs, which form the principles of happiness and health for horses. These are…

• forage Low-calorie grasses and soaked hay are some of the most common low-calorie options used as a source of forage. It’s often distributed over a wide area in small-holed haynets, hayboxes, dotted in hedgerows or in toys, such as hayballs, to add enrichment and encourage
• freedom Free roaming by nature, allowing horses to have an increased sense of freedom is the main concept behind the track system. They’re provided with a barn or shelter, which they’re allowed free choice over entering
• friends Herd living is highly encouraged in track systems, allowing close bonds to form and authentic herd dynamics to occur, for example resting and playing together

Top of her game

H&R spoke to international showjumper, Holly Coetzee, who’s a huge advocate for the benefits of providing a natural lifestyle for competition horses…

Q: Do people ever react negatively to your methods?

A: I’m sure some people think I’m a bit odd, but I find most are intrigued. It’s obviously not the norm, but people seem really happy that I’m trying to do something that’s better for my horse. I also don’t ride Connor with a bit – he wears a cross-under bridle – and he doesn’t have shoes, either.

Q: Do people ever react negatively to your methods?

A: I’m sure some people think I’m a bit odd, but I find most are intrigued. It’s obviously not the norm, but people seem really happy that I’m trying to do something that’s better for my horse. I also don’t ride Connor with a bit – he wears a cross-under bridle – and he doesn’t have shoes, either.

 To learn more about the track system pick up a copy of October Horse&Rider, on sale 19 August 2021