HQ Magazine Issue 172C

Welcome!

As riders and horsepeople, we’re all trying to make good decisions for our horses in a world overflowing with information, opinions, and quick fixes often proffered by armchair experts or keyboard warriors. HQ has always tried to cut through that noise, and in this issue, we’re doubling down on what we believe matters most: evidence-based guidance, thoughtful conversation, and real expertise.

You’ll find a strong mix in these pages: veterinary insight you can trust, training advice rooted in biomechanics (not trends), welfare-centred horsemanship, and, a look at the young horses coming into our sport. Our goal, as always, is to give you tools – not rules; ideas you can test, adapt, and use to build a better partnership with your horse.

As always, a huge thank you to our advertisers, without whom these editions would not be possible.

Dr Lizzie Harrison | Editor

CONTENTS

The next generation

Inside the 2025 Capital Stud Auction Collection

Polyvagal theory

The science of safety in horse training

The future of equine breeding

Genetics, data, and ethics

Mare families that made the sport

The Qerly Chin effect: how one mare shaped a dynasty

The recovery revolution

A scientific and practical look at post-competition recovery

When the gut affects the brain

How the equine microbiome influences behaviour, focus and performance

Apple cider vinegar

Old-fashioned tonic or modern-day myth?

Ask the expert

How to read a hay analysis

AskHQ

Your questions answered

THE NEXT GENERATION

INSIDE THE 2025 CAPITAL STUD AUCTION COLLECTION

Every year, Capital Stud redefines the standard of sporthorse breeding in South Africa, and 2025 is no exception. This December’s Auction Collection, held at the Mooi River home of Capital Stud, represents not only the refinement of a breeding programme years in the making, but a glimpse into the future of the South African Warmblood.

A VISION REALISED

Henning Pretorius’ vision has always been clear: to produce horses of international calibre, capable of competing and winning anywhere in the world. With the partnership between Capital Stud and Summerhill Equestrian, that vision has come fully alive over the past few years. The 2025 Collection showcases the best

of both facilities: genetics of international standing combined with the ideal environment for a young horse to thrive.

Over the past twelve months, the Stud’s success has echoed far beyond its pastures at Summerhill. From Capital My Lady and Thomas van Rijckevorsel adding European wins to their record, to Capital Magic Boy and Ronnie Healy competing successfully on the international stage, to Capital Night Star thriving under Nayel Nassar in the United States, Capital’s global presence is undeniable. Yet at the heart of these achievements lies the next generation – the young horses now offered in this December auction.

THE POWER BEHIND THE PEDIGREES

The 2025 Collection draws its strength from a stable of stallions whose influence is felt both in the ring and in the quality youngsters that form this and future collections.

Capital Cornetblue Floreval Z (Cornet Obolensky × Chacco–Blue × Berlin) stamps his foals with exceptional rideability, round, elastic jumps and naturally balanced canters. His progeny, including Capital Carillo, Capital Catoka and Capital Chandler, stand out for their intelligence, scope and impeccable attitude. They are the definition of modern showjumpers.

athletic types for the top of the sport. Examples here include Capital Memphis, Capital Marley and Capital Mecca.

Capital Kronos (Darco × Cash × Lord) remains the quintessential modern stallion, passing on agility, stamina and sharp instincts. Kronos offspring possess endless power but a notably lighter frame, producing jumpers that are both explosive and rideable These traits are clearly seen in Capital Kennedy, and Capital Karoona.

Capital Figaro d’Isigny (Kannan × Dollar du Murier × Irak E), a full brother to Steve Guerdat’s World Cup winner Albfuehren’s Paille, adds brilliance and refinement, with offspring like Capital Fourfax and Capital Fargo showing classical technique, a natural bascule and a feel for jumping.

Cassini I × Romino) is quickly emerging as a cornerstone sire. His offspring, including Capital Quest, Capital Qastino, and Capital Queenie, blend exceptional rideability with quality, exactly as Capital intended.

Bred from a power–mind cross that blends Caretino and Cassini I, Capital Levubu (Cachas x Cassini I x Romino) stamps athleticism, blood and quality with a clear–headed temperament, which is exactly the

package needed for today’s technical sport. His pedigree reads like a fairytale, and his type comes through strongly in his progeny, like Capital Latham on this Auction.

Elegant, athletic and impeccably bred, Capital Conlanc (Contender × Lancer II × Cor de la Bryère) embodies the essence of modern sporthorse type. With his hallmark rideability and classic Contender power, Conlanc’s stamp is one of refinement, confidence and effortless style. His influence is unmistakable in Capital Cavendish on this Auction.

Known for his heart, scope and brilliance, Capital Rendement (Burggraaf × Zeus × Hurricane) brought the courage of Burggraaf and the sensitivity of Zeus together in one extraordinary athlete. A proven performer at the top level and an equally influential sire, he passes on his sharp intelligence, elastic technique and unshakable will to win. His offspring on this Auction carry that same lion–hearted attitude – bold, careful and made for the big stage.

BREEDING FOR THE MODERN SPORT

And finally, Capital Impossible (now 334 Impossible) (Verdi × Voltaire × Wisconsin) offers his hallmark elasticity and sharp reflexes. From the famed Kicky Queen dam line (also the dam of Tyson), he adds sharp technique and a rideable brain, which are already evident in auction offspring like Capital Izara, Capital Iceberg and Capital Islington.

As courses evolve, so too must breeding. The Capital team has responded to the international demand for lighter, quicker, more adjustable jumpers. By carefully pairing stallions such as Cornetblue Floreval Z and Qorland with mares selected for blood, temperament and soundness, Capital Stud has created a generation of athletes designed for today’s sport – careful yet brave, forward–thinking yet manageable.

THE RIDEABILITY FACTOR

Ask any professional rider what defines a great horse today, and the answer is rarely ‘scope’ alone; it’s rideability. And, behind the successes of Capital’s horses overseas lies a breeding philosophy grounded not in chance but in design: the conviction that rideability is the trait that ties together performance, welfare and longevity.

As course design evolves toward tighter turns, shorter approaches and greater emphasis on adjustability, a horse must think with the rider, not against them. Rideability sits at this intersection of biomechanics and behaviour. It is the expression of a horse’s ability to stay in balance, respond to the rider’s aids, and remain mentally available under pressure. It’s the horse that’s keen

to do the job and wants to win, not just the horse that jumps the biggest.

Henning Pretorius has long argued that rideability is the most important breeding goal of the next generation. A horse with natural balance, good reflexes, and a calm, intelligent temperament not only performs better but lasts longer in the sport. It’s the key to longevity, partnership, and welfare, because a rideable horse is a happy, confident athlete. Beyond this, a rideable horse allows more riders to reach the pinnacle of the sport. Overly sensitive, blood horses that only one or two people can successfully ride are limited by the technicality of riding them, whereas horses that are eminently rideable, yet possess the talent, make the World Cup Qualifiers reachable for talented amateurs.

At Capital Stud, this philosophy underpins every pairing. Stallions like Cornetblue Floreval Z and Qorland are chosen as much for mind as for movement, and young horses are raised in an environment that rewards curiosity, not tension. By the time they reach the auction arena, they’re not just bred to win; they are bred to win with a wide variety of riders.

A PHILOSOPHY BUILT ON PARTNERSHIP

Beyond genetics, what distinguishes Capital Stud is its philosophy. Each foal is raised within an ecosystem that prioritises welfare, education, and correct development. From their formative years in herds on the rolling hills of Summerhill Equestrian to the precise nutritional mix in the grasses grown and fed, these young horses arrive at auction both physically and mentally ready for their next chapter.

HQ’S HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2025 COLLECTION

Among this year’s lineup, several young horses captured particular attention during try–outs and previews:

LOT 1: Capital Carillo (Capital Cornetblue Floreval Z × Capital Capriccio × Graf Sponek)

With his striking presence and

generous temperament, Capital Carillo is the definition of a horse you can trust. Straightforward, kind and impeccably balanced, he pairs the elasticity of Cornet Obolensky with the rideability and classic technique of Capriccio. Carillo’s calm mind and honest attitude make him equally suited to ambitious amateurs and professionals aiming high.

Undoubtedly one of HQ’s favourites in this year’s Collection, Capital Izara is the image of refinement, intelligence, and sensitivity. With the blood of Impossible, Castigo, and Hitoshi behind her, she brings together scope, balance and an

exceptional brain. Refined and responsive, she thrives with a sympathetic rider, rewarding feel with expression, technique and generosity. Elegant, modern, and full of heart, Izara is the kind of mare who will steal the spotlight.

3: Capital Memphis (Capital My Friend × Guidam × Zeus) With his unmistakable presence and raw athleticism, Capital Memphis stands out as one of the true powerhouses of this Collection. He carries the proven blood of Nabab de Rêve, Heartbreaker and Guidam, and

it shows in every stride. Bold, scopey and full of purpose, Memphis has that rare mix of grit and elegance that marks a future Grand Prix horse. For riders with ambition, he’s the kind of partner who doesn’t just meet the standard; he raises it.

kindness, and effortless rideability. Naturally responsive and light off the

aids, he gives his rider a confident, forward feel while staying composed and careful over every fence. Straightforward yet athletic, Quest is the kind of partner who makes progress feel easy; he’s a true horseman’s horse with the scope to shine.

LOT 7: Capital Catoka (Capital Cornetblue Floreval Z × Capital Homerus × Capital Capriccio) Bright, blooded and brimming with ability, Capital Catoka is every inch the modern sporthorse. She combines the elasticity and technique of Cornetblue Floreval

Z with the sharp intelligence of Homerus, giving her both brilliance and brain. Quick off the floor and forward–thinking, she’s a mare with all the ingredients for the biggest classes – athletic, responsive, and alive to every aid. In capable hands, her potential is unlimited.

10:

(Capital My Friend × Belmondo × Landlord) Athletic, scopey and beautifully adjustable, Capital Marley is a horse that commands attention. He combines the proven power and carefulness of Nabab de Rêve with the elasticity and balance of

Toulon, producing a jump that’s both expressive and efficient. With his huge canter, excellent rideability and natural presence, Marley has all the ingredients to reach the top of the sport. He’s a serious prospect destined for the big classes.

Careful, athletic and endlessly scopey, Capital Fargo is a horse who gives the fences the respect they deserve. With Kannan, Darco and Rendement running through

his pedigree, he brings the perfect balance of power and technique. His sharp reflexes, natural carefulness and big–hearted attitude make him a true contender for the sport’s upper levels. He’s a five–star horse in every sense, suited to a professional or talented amateur with ambition.

LOT 15: Capital Quintana (Capital Qorland × Capital Hitoshi × Lansing) Elegant, athletic and unmistakably modern, Capital Quintana is the embodiment of today’s sporthorse ideal. With the proven power of Qorland, the elasticity of Hitoshi,

and the refinement of Lansing, she combines scope with lightness and rideability. Intelligent and responsive, she offers her rider both sensitivity and strength – a rare balance that makes her a true prospect for the top of the sport.

LOT 21: Capital Canberra (Capital Cornetblue Floreval Z × Cachas × Corofino I)

Bright, blooded and bursting with athleticism, Capital Canberra is every inch a modern sport mare. She blends the scope and intelligence of Cornet Obolensky with the sharpness

and reflexes of Cachas and Corofino I, producing a horse made for the big stage. Quick in mind and body, she’s powerful yet beautifully rideable. She’s a professional’s dream and a serious prospect for top–level competition both locally and abroad.

Full of charm and character, Capital Mazulane pairs playfulness with genuine talent. Behind his easy–going personality lies a powerful, expressive jump and a natural rhythm that makes him a joy to ride.

With Nabab de Rêve, Cumano and Heartbreaker in his pedigree, he carries proven performance blood, but it’s his rideability and flair that make him unforgettable. Personality meets performance in this standout gelding, a horse as enjoyable as he is competitive. Quite simply, we love him.

Sharp, sensitive and exceptionally talented, Capital Calita is the definition of a modern competition mare. She inherits the quick reflexes and intelligence of Cornet Obolensky

with the athleticism and balance of Ulrich and Bambix, giving her brilliance in both technique and instinct. Careful and light off the aids, she thrives with a professional rider who appreciates her sensitivity. She’s a true sporthorse with the qualities to reach the pinnacle of the game.

38: Capital Cleo

Cornetblue Floreval

Capital Capriccio

Compact, electric and endlessly expressive, Capital Cleo is proof that greatness comes in small packages. Quick and sharp–minded with an engine that never quits, she

channels the brilliance of Cornet Obolensky and Capriccio into every jump. Bursting with energy and presence, Cleo’s raw athleticism and sheer determination make her a mare destined for the very top. She’s fiery, talented, and impossible to ignore.

LOT 40: Capital Qualbert (Capital Qorland × Indoctro × Mr Blue)

Versatile, kind and full of heart, Capital Qualbert is the definition of a true all–rounder. Combining the scope of Qorland with the rideability of Indoctro and the bravery of Mr Blue, he offers his rider confidence

and class in equal measure. With his generous temperament and athletic ability, Qualbert is equally at home giving a junior rider wings or taking a talented amateur to the next level. He’s a horse built on scope, rideability and heart.

We are immensely proud to present what we believe to be our most refined and competitive group of young horses yet. Each holds the potential to rise to the very top of the sport.

– Capital Stud

ATTEND THE CAPITAL STUD AUCTION 2025

DATE: 6TH DECEMBER 2025

TICKETS AVAILABLE ON QUICKET

INTERPRETING THE COLLECTION

Across these 40 lots, the thread is unmistakable: rideability and quality. Collectively, they signal the maturation of Capital’s programme: not simply producing jumpers with scope, but athletes that understand the job and can do it at the highest level. In the long term, it’s these horses – the trainable, thinking types – that elevate South African breeding from potential to parity with international standards.

LOOKING AHEAD

Henning Pretorius’ influence continues to shape the South African sporthorse landscape. With each sale, the bar for quality rises, and the global reach of South African–bred horses grows ever stronger.

The 2025 Collection is more than an auction; it’s a statement of intent. Every horse carries not only world–class bloodlines but the promise of performance, partnership, and progress. Capital Stud is ready for the future.

JOIN US AT SUMMERHILL EQUESTRIAN ON THE FOR OUR

Q: WHY DOES MY HORSE FEEL STIFF IN THE FIRST TEN MINUTES OF WORK?

A: Many horses feel a little wooden, short-striding, or reluctant to bend at the start of a session, and in most cases, this reflects physiology, not age or reluctance to work. Like human athletes, horses need time for the musculoskeletal system to transition from rest to work.

In the first few minutes of exercise, synovial fluid inside the joints becomes warmer and thinner, which improves lubrication. Soft tissues begin to increase blood flow, the thoracic sling activates to lift the ribcage, and the core stabilisers switch on to support the spine. If a horse is pushed too quickly into collection, small circles, or demanding movements before this has happened, stiffness is almost guaranteed.

A structured warm-up should focus on mobility first, suppleness second, and power last. Useful elements include:

• Five to eight minutes of free, swinging walk on a long rein, ideally starting on a loose frame to allow the back to lift and the ribcage to move.

• Large circles, changes of rein, and serpentines, which gently mobilise the neck, ribcage, and pelvis.

• Walk leg-yields or shallow loops to wake up the abdominal muscles and stimulate side-to-side flexibility without strain.

• Gradual trot work, beginning in a stretching frame before adding transitions within the gait.

• If safe and available, a few minutes of straight-line work in an open space can significantly help horses that feel stuck or behind the leg in the arena.

Some horses - especially those with a naturally tighter topline, a big stride, or more mass -need longer than others. But stiffness that resolves within 10–15 minutes is usually normal adaptation.

However, if your horse:

• remains stiff after warm-up,

• feels worse on one rein,

• repeatedly trips in the early stages,

• shows reluctance to step under behind,

• or improves dramatically after a day off, …it may indicate low-grade hindlimb discomfort, early joint inflammation, hoof imbalance, or saddle fit issues. These are subtle and easy to miss, so a discussion with your vet, physio, or saddle fitter is worthwhile.

A thoughtful warm-up routine not only reduces stiffness - it protects joints long-term, improves performance, and sets your horse up for a better, more comfortable ride.

Q: WHY DOES MY HORSE HOLLOW IN DOWNWARD TRANSITIONS?

A: A hollow downward transition is usually a sign that the horse is losing engagement behind or protecting something, whether that’s weakness, imbalance, or discomfort. Hollowing often appears when the horse:

• Drops the thoracic sling instead of lifting through the wither

• Braces through the under-neck to avoid taking weight behind

• Is asked for a transition too abruptly

• Feels blocked by the hand, rather than invited to rebalance from the seat

• Lacks core strength or is fatigued

To improve this, think of a downward transition as a series of smaller ‘halfsteps’, not a single braking action. For example:

Canter  smaller canter  almost trot  trot, keeping the hind legs stepping under.

Helpful exercises include:

• Mini-transitions within the pace

• Serpentines and large circles to encourage bend and suppleness

• Raised walk–trot poles to strengthen the core and hindquarters

• Light, elastic contact, allowing the horse to lift the base of the neck without feeling trapped

• Using your seat to rebalanceimagine lifting the wither with your core rather than pulling back with the reins

If hollowing is persistent or accompanied by tail swishing, ear pinning, or reluctance to step under, check for:

• Saddle pressure behind the shoulder

• Low-grade hindlimb discomfort

• SI tightness or lumbar pain

With patience and correct biomechanics, downward transitions should become smooth, lifted, and balanced.

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POLYVAGAL THEORY

THE SCIENCE OF SAFETY IN HORSE TRAINING

Understanding how the nervous system works isn’t just a human psychology topic; it’s central to horsemanship, rider development, and equine welfare. Polyvagal theory, developed by Professor Stephen Porges, offers one of the clearest scientific frameworks for why horses learn on some days, shut down on others, and thrive in the hands of some riders but struggle with others. For trainers and riders, it may be one of the most important concepts you haven’t yet consciously applied.

THE VAGUS NERVE

At the heart of polyvagal theory is the vagus nerve. This nerve is a long, wandering nerve that runs from the brainstem down through the throat, heart, lungs and digestive system. It is the main pathway of the parasympathetic nervous system, the system responsible for calm, connection and recovery. This system acts as the body’s brake. It slows the heart rate, deepens the breathing, softens the muscles and allows relaxation. This is why the vagus nerve and the corresponding polyvagal theory are so important to our work with our horses.

The opposite system is the sympathetic system, which is responsible for the fight, flight or

freeze response. This is the body’s accelerator, and when active, it increases heart rate, muscle tension, alertness and reactivity. In horses, sympathetic activation looks like high head carriage, a tight back and rushing or spooking. Riders with high sympathetic activation, on the other hand, may brace, hold their breath and grip with their legs or hands. It’s easy to see from this, that the parasympathetic state is the preferred one for both rider and horse in terms of welfare, health and also performance.

WHAT IS THE POLYVAGAL SYSTEM?

At its core, the polyvagal system describes how the body – human or equine – responds to safety and danger. It explains how both species shift through three physiological states: 1. Ventral vagal state – ‘safe, social, connected’

• The horse feels calm, curious, and able to learn

• The rider’s aids make sense; the horse can process information

• Muscles are available; breathing is steady; posture lifts

• This is the learning zone

2. Sympathetic state – ‘fight or flight’

• Heart rate increases

• Startle responses rise

• Horses become reactive, tense, and tight in the back

• Rider aids feel ‘louder’ even when they are not

• Thinking disappears and instinct takes over

3. Dorsal vagal state – ‘shutdown or freeze’

• The horse appears quiet but is internally overwhelmed

• You may see bracing, learned helplessness, or dissociation

• They go through the motions without true softness or engagement

• This state is often misread as ‘lazy,’ ‘stubborn,’ or ‘unwilling’

Horses move between these states all the time. The goal of good horsemanship is not to avoid stress entirely, but to help the horse return to the safe, connected state quickly and consistently.

WHY THIS MATTERS IN TRAINING

LEARNING CANNOT OCCUR IN STRESS

A horse in fight–or–flight cannot use the thinking part of the brain. It doesn’t matter how talented the rider is – no horse learns a new movement, releases its back, or finds balance when its nervous system is overwhelmed. When your horse seems to have ‘forgotten’ something you have practised before, it’s worth questioning what state they were in when they learnt it.

POSTURE MIRRORS STATE

A hollow back, fixed poll, wide eyes, and tight jaw are not just ‘resistance’; they are nervous–system responses.

Similarly, a loose tail, soft ribs, swinging back, and a lifted base of the neck indicate a horse in the ventral state, who is available for connection and learning.

CONTACT BEGINS WITH SAFETY

Good contact is impossible without a regulated nervous system. A tense horse cannot chew the bit, open the throatlatch, or follow the rein. A shutdown horse will fake connection but remain braced through the body.

Ultimately, true connection is not created by the hand; it emerges from the nervous system first.

YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM AFFECTS THE HORSE’S

Your nervous system plays a crucial role in this system because horses co–regulate with the people and conspecifics around them. That means your internal state becomes their internal state.

A tense rider creates a tense horse. A shut–down rider creates a shut–down horse.

A regulated rider allows the horse to return to safety.

Everything you feel in your body

– anxiety, frustration, softness, confidence – is transmitted through your:

• breathing

• heart rate

• posture

• muscle tone

• timing

• touch

• intention

This is why some riders appear talented with so–called ‘difficult’ horses. It is not because they are better riders but because they are better regulated, and allow the horse to feel safe.

HOW HORSES TRY TO REGULATE THEMSELVES

Understanding the behaviours horses use to self–soothe helps riders choose training strategies that support the nervous system rather than fight against it. It also allows riders to give their horses time to process and down–regulate to ensure optimal performance.

Common self–regulating behaviours include:

• sniffing or investigating

• licking and chewing

• blinking or head–lowering

• seeking contact with the herd

• rhythmic movement (walking, pattern work)

• rolling

• grazing

• regulated breathing through the nose

• soft snorts

These are not ‘distractions.’ They are neurophysiological resets that bring the horse back into the learning zone.

POLYVAGAL THEORY IN PRACTICAL TRAINING

Here are some practical steps you can take to train your horse in line with polyvagal principles:

1. Lower the pressure before asking for more

If the horse is already in a sympathetic state, adding more leg, more rein, or more ‘correction’ escalates the system. Instead, exhale, soften your body, and return to something easy; then try again.

2. Use patterned movement to regulate Circles, serpentines, and figures of eight support nervous–system recovery because rhythm and repetition calm the vagus nerve.

3. Reward with releases that lower arousal

A long rein, a small pause, or simply scratching the wither (where the parasympathetic fibres run) signals safety far more effectively than verbal praise.

4. Notice shut–down as well as tension

A horse that ‘does nothing’ may be overwhelmed, not lazy. Look for lack of blinking, rigid breathing, fixed posture, or going through the motions without emotional engagement.

5. Use connection, not dominance Training rooted in threat, force or relentless pressure drives the horse into sympathetic or dorsal states. Training based on clarity, fair boundaries and emotional attunement keeps the horse in ventral regulation, which is where real progress happens.

THE RIDER’S SELF–REGULATION TOOLKIT

To bring the horse into a safe state, the rider must access their own feeling of safety first. Effective tools include:

• slow, full exhalations

• grounding through the feet

• softening the jaw and tongue

• lowering the shoulders

• widening peripheral vision

• slowing hand movement

• acknowledging emotion rather than suppressing it

A regulated rider becomes an anchor point – a biological ‘safe place’ – that the horse can return to again and again.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR WELFARE

Polyvagal theory brings welfare and performance into the same conversation. A dysregulated horse is not only harder to train; he is more prone to:

• muscle tension

• ulcers

• behavioural issues

• soundness problems

• conflict behaviours

• shutdown and learned helplessness

A regulated horse is:

• physically softer

• mentally available

• emotionally stable

• motivated to learn

• safer in the long term

• biomechanically capable

As you can see from the above, understanding the nervous system of the horse is not then a ‘soft science’, but rather the foundation of ethical, effective horsemanship.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Polyvagal theory reframes training from ‘how do I make the horse do this?’ to ‘how do I help the horse feel safe enough to offer this?’

When riders learn to recognise these states – in themselves and in their horses – training becomes easier, clearer, more humane and more successful. The breakthroughs become bigger, and the relationship becomes deeper.

Q: MY HORSE DIVES ONTO THE FOREHAND. HOW DO I FIX IT?

A: When a horse ‘tips’ onto the forehand, it usually means the hindquarters aren’t carrying enough weight. Instead of stepping under the body and lifting the wither, the horse pushes forward and down, letting the shoulders absorb the load. This is very common - especially in young horses, weak horses, and those returning from time off - but if it persists despite correct training, it’s essential to rule out pain. Low-grade hindlimb discomfort, hock or stifle soreness, foot imbalance, or a poorly fitting saddle can all make true engagement impossible.

From a purely schooling perspective, improving balance starts with strength, not frame. Hindquarter

strength allows the pelvis to tilt, the abdominal muscles to support the spine, and the thoracic sling to elevate the front end.

Useful strengthening tools include:

• Frequent transitions (walk–trot–walk; trot–halt–trot; canter–trot; transitions within the gait). The key is quality over quantity: smooth, straight, and ridden from the leg into a soft hand.

• Hill work, which naturally encourages the horse to step under and push upwards rather than forwards.

• Raised poles in walk and trot, which activate the thoracic sling and abdominal muscles and improve proprioception.

• Correct half-halts, which rebalance the horse without pulling. A true half-halt momentarily shifts weight

back and lifts the wither but if you feel the neck shorten or become tight, the rein is doing too much.

One of the most overlooked contributors to forehand balance is thoracic sling weakness. The sling is the system of muscles that suspends the ribcage between the horse’s forelimbs. If it’s weak, the ribcage drops, the shoulders load, and the horse becomes heavy in the hand no matter what you do with the reins.

To improve this, incorporate:

• In-hand work, especially transitions, small circles, and yielding the shoulders around the forehand.

• Physiotherapy exercises such as belly lifts, wither lifts, carrot stretches to the girth and stifle, and backing up in a straight line.

• Slow, controlled work over poles and on varied terrain to recruit stabilising muscles.

Finally, avoid trying to ‘lift the front end’ with your hands. This simply shortens the neck and increases tension. Balance must always come from behind.

With consistency, patience, and a focus on biomechanics - not just outline - most horses develop a lighter, more uphill balance within weeks.

Q: HOW OFTEN SHOULD SPORTHORSES GET PHYSIOTHERAPY?

A: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but most actively training sporthorses benefit from a physiotherapy checkup every 4–8 weeks. This window enables practitioners to identify small patterns of tension before they become performance-limiting issues, and to support the ongoing cycle of training, adaptation, and recovery that sport horses undergo.

A suitable frequency depends on several factors:

LEVEL OF WORK

Horses jumping regularly, schooling collected work, or competing frequently place higher mechanical loads on joints, fascia, and soft

tissues. These horses often do best on a four to six week cycle.

STAGE OF TRAINING

Young horses, those moving up the levels, or horses returning to work after time off benefit from more frequent visits. Their bodies are adapting to new postural and strength demands, so sessions every three to four weeks can help guide correct muscular development and prevent compensation patterns.

REHABILITATION CASES

Horses recovering from injurytendon, ligament, back pain, or sacroiliac issues - may require weekly or bi-weekly sessions initially. This supports controlled progression and helps ensure the horse moves correctly while tissues heal.

AGE AND CONFORMATION

Older horses, or those with less ideal biomechanics (e.g., naturally downhill, long-backed, croup-high, or asymmetrical), may accumulate tension faster and benefit from more regular treatment.

RIDER INFLUENCE

An asymmetrical rider, an inconsistent training schedule, or saddle-fit issues can all increase the frequency of needed maintenance sessions.

Between visits, good management goes a long way: polework, correct warm-ups, stretching, turnout, and ensuring a well-fitted saddle reduce the load on your physio and support longer-lasting results.

AS A RULE OF THUMB:

• 4 - 6 weeks - most sport horses in regular work

• 6–8 weeks - lightly worked horses with no recurring issues

• 3–4 weeks - horses levelling up, sensitive types, or those with ongoing niggles

• 1–2 weeks - rehab horses or horses under very high training intensity

Your physiotherapist and veterinarian can help tailor a schedule based on your horse’s workload, temperament, and physical condition.

THE FUTURE OF

equine breeding

GENETICS, DATA, AND ETHICS

The next frontier of sporthorse breeding isn’t just about bloodlines; it’s about information. Across the world, breeders are increasingly using genetic testing, artificial insemination (AI), embryo transfer (ET), and data-driven analysis to predict, enhance, and preserve equine athletic potential. But as the science accelerates, so do the ethical questions that come with it.

ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION, EMBRYO TRANSFER AND ICSI

Artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) are now mainstream in the sporthorse world. These techniques extend the reproductive lifespan of elite mares, allow access to stallions across continents, and help preserve valuable genetics without the risks of natural covering.

ET, in particular, has changed the game. A top-level mare can now continue competing while producing multiple foals per season through surrogates. While this boosts breeding efficiency and accelerates genetic progress, it also raises questions about welfare, both for donor and recipient mares. Veterinary

ethics boards emphasise the need for clear welfare guidelines: adequate

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION (AI)?

Artificial insemination (AI) is the process of collecting semen from a stallion and depositing it directly into a mare’s uterus using specialised equipment, removing the need for natural covering.

Depending on logistics and purpose, semen can be used fresh, chilled, or frozen. This makes it possible to breed mares to stallions located across the country, or even on another continent, while reducing the physical and health risks associated with live cover.

AI has revolutionised equine breeding by improving biosecurity, recordkeeping, and genetic reach, but it also demands precision. Timing is critical: ovulation must be closely monitored, and handling of semen requires expertise to preserve fertility.

Used responsibly, AI expands access to elite genetics while protecting both stallions and mares. However, as with all assisted reproduction, it invites ongoing discussion about how far technology should shape natural processes.

At the cutting edge of this progress lies ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), which is a laboratory-based procedure where a single sperm cell is injected directly into a harvested egg. ICSI allows fertilisation from stallions with limited or frozen semen, and from mares unable to

conceive conventionally. However, it also challenges traditional boundaries, with concerns around overproduction, embryo commodification, and the growing separation between natural breeding cycles and laboratory reproduction.

WHAT IS EMBRYO TRANSFER (ET)?

Embryo transfer (ET) is a reproductive technique that allows a mare to produce a foal without carrying the pregnancy herself. After the donor mare is inseminated, the fertilised embryo is flushed from her uterus around seven or eight days later and placed into a recipient mare whose cycle has been synchronised.

This allows top-performing mares to remain in work while still contributing genetically to future generations.

With this method, a single mare can produce multiple embryos in one season, increasing the number of offspring from valuable bloodlines. However, each flush, implantation, and pregnancy carries welfare considerations, from the questions around the impact of hormonal manipulation to the degree of recipient health monitoring.

In responsible hands, ET is a valuable breeding tool; however, overuse risks turning horses into reproductive machines and, thus, compromising their welfare. It also risks a dramatic reduction in genetic diversity amongst sporthorses, creating other concerns for the future.

THE RISE OF REPRODUCTIVE DATA

Data is becoming the invisible backbone of modern breeding. Studs are using advanced analytics to monitor conception rates, embryo viability, and foal health across multiple seasons. Over time, this allows them to identify which mares and stallions consistently produce athletic, rideable offspring, not just glamorous pedigrees.

Machine learning tools are even being tested to predict the likelihood of success based on a combination of genomic data, performance metrics, and temperament scoring. For largescale breeders, this represents a new kind of precision breeding - one that could reduce risk and enhance welfare by producing horses more likely to thrive in the sport for which they were designed.

GENOMICS FOR THE FUTURE

For centuries, breeders relied on pedigree, instinct, and observation. But the rise of genomic testing, which is now available for traits such as muscle fibre type, disease predisposition, and even stress response, is transforming how horses are selected for both breeding and sport.

Early research from Europe and North America shows that certain genetic markers can influence muscle metabolism, bone density, and recovery rate. In theory, this allows breeders to make more targeted pairings, reducing the guesswork that has defined traditional breeding.

However, experts caution against overinterpreting these early findings. Horses, unlike livestock bred for single traits, are complex athletes. Performance depends not only on genes but also on training, management, nutrition, and the often intangible bond with their riders. As Dr. Cecilia Penedo of the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory at UC Davis put it:

Genomics gives us a new lens, but it doesn’t replace the horseman’s eye.

WHAT IS ICSI (INTRACYTOPLASMIC SPERM INJECTION)?

ICSI, short for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is a cutting-edge assisted reproduction technique where a single sperm is injected directly into a harvested egg (oocyte) under a microscope, removing the need for natural fertilisation. The fertilised egg develops into an embryo that is transferred into a recipient mare, meaning that both sire and dam genetics can continue influencing the sport long after their active careers end.

Unlike traditional AI or ET, ICSI can use very small volumes of semen, making it invaluable when dealing with limited or precious genetics, even semen from deceased stallions. It also allows eggs to be collected from older mares or those unable to carry a foal.

While ICSI increases reproductive success rates, it also raises ethical and economic questions. Does the ability to produce many embryos from elite bloodlines risk narrowing the genetic pool? Could the emphasis on laboratory breeding further disconnect horses from natural rhythms and welfare priorities? As the technology evolves, so too must our conversations around regulation, welfare, and responsibility. ICSI symbolises both the brilliance, and the burden, of progress in modern equine breeding.

THE ETHICS

The line between innovation and exploitation can be fine. Some critics argue that the commercialisation of advanced breeding has made horses too disposable, with embryos treated as commodities rather than living beings. Others worry that genetic selection may one day create a ‘breeding elite,’ narrowing the gene pool and reducing diversity.

The World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses (WBFSH) has begun addressing these issues, urging member studbooks to balance technological progress with sustainable, ethical practices. The welfare-first message is clear: science should serve the horse, not the market.

THE FUTURE

In the coming decade, the future of breeding will likely hinge on three principles: data transparency, genetic literacy, and welfare accountability.

Responsible breeders are already publishing more comprehensive fertility and progeny data, collaborating internationally, and engaging in open discussions about ethics. As genomic insights expand, so too will the need for breeders, riders, and owners to understand what that data actually means, and where its limits lie.

Q: WHY DOES MY HORSE SWISH HIS TAIL IN CANTER TRANSITIONS?

A: Tail swishing during upward transitions is a common sign of tension or discomfort, and it’s the horse’s way of communicating that something in the request feels difficult, unclear, or physically challenging.

SEVERAL FACTORS ARE WORTH CONSIDERING:

• Sharp, unclear, or conflicting aids

Many horses react to abrupt leg or hand aids by tightening the back and flicking the tail. If the rider grips, kicks, or holds the rein in the moment of transition, the horse may become defensive. A lighter, more coordinated aid - preparing with a

half-halt and allowing with the handoften softens the reaction.

• Saddle or back discomfort

Transitions load the thoracolumbar region; if the saddle pinches, bridges, or slides, or if the horse has back tightness, the moment of ‘pushing off’ into canter can be uncomfortable. Persistent tail swishing warrants a check of saddle fit and back health.

• Weak stifles or hindquarter musculature

The canter strike-off requires power from the stifle, gluteals, and hamstrings. Horses lacking strength here often show resistance signs like tail swishing, head tossing and crookedness, especially on their

weaker rein. Hill work, transitions on gentle gradients, and targeted strengthening can help.

• Lack of straightness

If the horse isn’t aligned, he may need to swing his quarters or brace through his back to lift into canter. This mechanical imbalance can trigger tail activity. Large circles, legyield in walk and trot, and shoulderfore help improve straightness.

• Mental tension

Some horses anticipate the transition and tighten in advance. A slower, more rhythmic approach with frequent walk–trot–walk transitions can restore relaxation.

What to do:

• Slow down the preparation phase

• Refine your aids - less pressure, more clarity

• Check saddle fit and back comfort

• Strengthen the hindquarters with hill work, raised poles, and balanced transitions

• Train straightness before worrying about expression

Q: MY HORSE HATES THE FARRIER. HOW DO I HELP HIM?

A: Farrier anxiety is extremely common. Most horses who struggle during shoeing or trimming are reacting to discomfort, balance issues, fear, or past negative experiences. The good news: with the right approach, almost every horse can learn to stand quietly and confidently.

CHECK FOR PAIN FIRST

Holding up a limb shifts the horse’s entire weight onto the opposite hind or forelimb. If your horse has sacroiliac (SI) pain, stifle weakness, hock arthritis, or sore feet, this can be uncomfortable or even painful. A vet or physio check is worthwhile if your horse consistently snatches, leans, kicks, or can’t hold a leg up for long.

PRACTISE CALM HANDLING

Short, daily sessions are more effective than long, occasional ones.

Try:

• Picking up each foot for 3–5 seconds

• Rewarding softness (not just compliance)

• Gradually increasing duration

• Running your hand down the leg, tapping the sole gently, mimicking farrier movements

• The goal is to show your horse that foot handling is predictable, safe, and rewarded.

STABILITY

Some horses struggle simply because they cannot physically balance well on three legs.

Supportive exercises include:

• Carrot stretches

• Belly lifts

• Tail pulls

• Polework

• Hill walking

These build the thoracic sling and hindquarter strength needed to stabilise during farrier work.

CREATE A CALM ENVIRONMENT

Many horses react to noise, restraint, or chaos. A good setup includes:

• A quiet area

• Non-slip footing

• A familiar handler

• Plenty of space

• If your horse is food-motivated, a haynet or some low-sugar treats

relaxation.

CHOOSE A FARRIER WHO UNDERSTANDS BEHAVIOUR

The right professional makes all the difference. Look for a farrier who:

• Works slowly

• Gives the horse time to process

• Doesn’t punish fear-based reactions

• Takes breaks when needed

• Is happy to train gradually.

REBUILD POSITIVE ASSOCIATIONS

If your horse has had frightening or painful experiences, the goal is to overwrite them with new, safe ones. Start with very short farrier visits just for scratches, treats, or touching tools to the legs - no trimming required - and build up from there.

With patience, pain management, and compassionate training, even the most anxious horses can learn to relax for the farrier.

MARE FAMILIES THAT MADE THE SPORT

THE QERLY CHIN EFFECT: HOW ONE MARE SHAPED A DYNASTY

She didn’t win the biggest classes herself,” one breeder famously noted, “but she built a bloodline that never stopped winning.

From a talented mare in Belgium to a dynasty of champions, the Qerly Chin line has become one of the most powerful forces in modern showjumping breeding.

THE FOUNDATION

When the Belgian mare Qerly Chin (Chin Chin × Pleiade de Baussy by Galoubet A) first stepped into a ring in the late 1990s, few could have guessed she would transform the

sport from the breeding shed rather than the arena. Bred at Stal de Muze, the visionary programme of Joris de Brabander, Qerly Chin was a good, careful jumper with balance and scope, but not the next Ratina Z. What she did possess, however, was a rare blend of reflexes, rideability and prepotency, and it was these qualities that would turn her into one of the most influential broodmares of the modern era.

DAUGHTERS WHO BECAME DYNASTIES

Qerly Chin’s true magic revealed itself through her daughters: each exceptional, each prolific, and each a cornerstone of a new branch in this ever-expanding family tree.

Foremost among them was Narcotique de Muze II (by Darco), a mare whose own record to 1.60m was eclipsed only by her record as a producer. She became the dam or grand-dam of stallions that now shape the international gene pool: Eldorado van de Zeshoek, Darco de Muze, and Tobago Z, among others.

Then came Walnut de Muze (by Nabab de Rêve), who jumped at

the highest level under Harrie Smolders before retiring to stud. She also gave us I’m Special de Muze and Bamako de Muze, which are names that now appear in auction catalogues and Nations Cup start lists in equal measure.

Around them, a constellation of daughters including Derly Chin de Muze, Caipiranja, Toupie de la Roque, and several ‘Narcotiques’, have spread the line across Europe, producing champions registered with BWP, Zangersheide, SBS and Selle Français. Few mare families have achieved such a pan-studbook reach while maintaining a clear, recognisable type.

STALLIONS CARRYING THE LEGACY

From these mares have come stallions who now headline studbooks worldwide. Eldorado van de Zeshoek (Clinton × Narcotique de Muze II) ranks among the most used sires globally, prized for passing on strength and a fearless hind-end. Tobago Z, with his elasticity and almost feline reflexes, continues the tradition of brilliance paired with

character. Bamako de Muze, I’m Special de Muze, Levis de Muze, By Cera du Maillet Z - the list reads like a who’s who of contemporary breeding.

What unites them is more than pedigree. It’s a genetic fingerprint: horses that want to jump, that cope mentally with pressure, and that transmit those traits reliably to their offspring.

THE GENETIC FINGERPRINT

So what, precisely, makes the Qerly Chin line different?

Breeders describe it as a blend of explosiveness and generositythe ‘Darco power’ layered over the ‘Chin Chin reflex.’ Her descendants typically have quick knees, an active back, and that indefinable forward draw to a fence that makes them both careful and brave.

Temperamentally, they’re alert and opinionated but trainable, often described as horses with opinions, and the power to back them up. Scientifically, these traits align with high heritability scores for scope and jumping technique. Even studies of WBFSH top-performer lineages highlight the dominance of certain maternal clusters, and Qerly Chin’s is one of the most stable across generations.

FROM BELGIUM TO THE WORLD

Nearly every major European auction now lists at least one Qerly-line descendant. From Zangersheide’s elite foal sales to BWP’s embryo collections, her blood is shorthand for market confidence.

In South Africa, her influence is increasingly visible. Stallions such as Eldorado van de Zeshoek, Tobago Z and Bamako de Muze have made their way into local breeding programmes through imported semen, and several imported

mares trace directly to Qerly Chin or Narcotique de Muze II. The result is a subtle but significant shift: breeders are no longer choosing sires in isolation but building around proven female families.

In recent Capital and Callaho catalogues, her blood appears behind youngstock whose athleticism and brain have made them immediate standouts. It’s a sign that South African breeding is entering the same mare-family-driven phase that propelled Belgium and the Netherlands to the top of global sport.

LEGACY AND LONGEVITY

Almost three decades after Qerly Chin’s birth, her descendants continue to dominate. At the 2024 FEI Nations Cup Final, horses from her line appeared on multiple teams. In the WBFSH

rankings, her sons and grandsons populate the top 30 sires list. Yet her true significance lies in what she represents: the power of the mare line to outlast trends, stallion fashions, and marketing cycles.

If Fragance de Chalus defined the French ideal of elegance and elasticity, Qerly Chin embodies the Belgian recipe for success - scope, sense and substance - all wrapped in a family that never seems to miss.

Her dynasty is not fading; it’s evolving. Each generation adds a

new layer - more refinement, more rideability, more results - but the core remains unmistakable.

From one quietly brilliant mare, a global legacy was born. She serves as a reminder that in the end, the truest legends of our sport are often the mares.

Q: DOES MY HORSE REALLY NEED JOINT SUPPLEMENTS?

A: Not every horse needs a joint supplement, but many will benefit from one at certain stages of life or training. The key is understanding when supplementation is useful, why, and what ingredients actually have evidence behind them.

START WITH THE BASICS

Joint health depends on workload, conformation, age, previous injuries, and management. A young, lightlyworked horse on good footing with balanced nutrition may not need additional support. But a sporthorse training several days a week, a horse with a history of joint strain, or an older horse beginning to show stiffness is far more likely to benefit.

WHEN SUPPLEMENTS MAKE SENSE

• Increased workload: Jumping, collection, lateral work, speed work and tight turns all place higher biomechanical loads on joints.

• Early stiffness or mild ‘warm-up’ lameness: This can reflect lowgrade inflammation or cartilage wear, even if the horse is sound after loosening up.

• Ageing horses: Cartilage becomes less resilient with age; targeted nutrients may help maintain comfort and mobility.

• Post-injury or post-diagnosis: Horses with diagnosed joint issues - such as osteoarthritis - often benefit from a combination of veterinary treatment and supportive nutraceuticals.

WHAT INGREDIENTS ACTUALLY MATTER

Look for joint supplements containing ingredients with research behind them, such as:

• Glucosamine HCL and Chondroitin sulphate which support cartilage matrix and joint lubrication.

• MSM, which is a source of sulphur essential for connective tissue and is also linked to inflammation control.

• Hydrolysed collagen peptides, which support tendon, ligament, and cartilage elasticity.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/ DHA), which are among the few nutrients shown to help modulate inflammatory pathways in the body.

• Antioxidants (Vit E, Vit C, grape seed extract), which help neutralise free radicals that contribute to cartilage damage.

• Minerals such as manganese, copper, and zinc, which are

essential for collagen formation and tissue repair.

SUPPLEMENTS ARE HELPFUL BUT NOT A FIX ALL

They cannot replace correct workload management, good footing, appropriate conditioning, farriery, or veterinary care. Think of them as part of a broader jointhealth strategy, not the whole solution.

BOTTOM LINE

No, not every horse needs a joint supplement. But for many hardworking, older, or previously injured horses, the right supplement can make a meaningful difference in comfort, recovery, and long-term soundness. If you’re unsure, ask your vet or an equine nutrition professional to evaluate your horse’s training load, diet, and clinical history before choosing one.

Q: MY HORSE RUSHES JUMPS. WHAT COULD BE THE CAUSE?

A: Rushing is almost never the problem; it’s a symptom. Horses speed up to cope with discomfort, imbalance, confusion, or pressure. Identifying the underlying cause is the key to solving it.

PAIN OR DISCOMFORT

A horse that hurries to the fence may be trying to get the effort ‘over with’ before something hurts. Common sources include:

• Back pain (thoracolumbar tension, kissing spines)

• Hock or stifle discomfort

• Front-foot soreness or poor hoof balance

• Poor saddle fit causing restriction or pinching

If rushing appears suddenly or worsens with height, rule out pain first with a vet and saddle check.

BALANCE AND STRENGTH ISSUES

Young horses or those lacking strength in the hindquarters often lose balance before a jump. In these cases, speed becomes a survival strategy. Signs include falling onto the forehand, leaning, or accelerating through turns.

Improve balance with:

• Transitions (especially canter-walkcanter)

• Polework to regulate rhythm

• Hill work and straightness training

• Gridwork that encourages bascule and self-carriage

ANXIETY OR OVERFACING

A horse who feels unsure, has had a bad experience, or is facing fences above his current comfort level may start hurrying from nerves. This is common in sensitive, hot types.

Reset confidence with:

• Low fences

• Calm approaches in trot or a quiet canter

• Repetition of simple, clear questions

• Rewarding rhythm rather than effort

The goal is to rebuild trust in the rider and the job.

RIDER PRESSURE AND MIXED MESSAGES

Sometimes riders inadvertently push with their leg while hanging onto the hand, creating contradictory aids. The horse responds by running.

Solutions include:

• Softer, more elastic elbows

• A still, neutral leg approaching the fence

• Allowing the horse to travel forward without chasing

• Focusing on rhythm, not pace

Video feedback or a trainer’s eye can be invaluable.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Rushing is communication. Instead of trying to ‘slow the horse down,’ treat it as an invitation to investigate.

THE

RECOVERY REVOLUTION

A SCIENTIFIC AND PRACTICAL LOOK AT POST-COMPETITION RECOVERY

At every show, the buzz after a big round is electric, but once the adrenaline fades, a quieter and arguably more important phase begins: recovery.

For decades, equestrian culture has glorified the work: the rounds, the lessons, the hours in the saddle. Only recently has the focus shifted to what happens after the bell rings. Across sport disciplines, human and equine athletes alike are part of a growing ‘recovery revolution’, a movement grounded in science, where rest, hydration, and cellular repair are treated not as downtime, but as performance enhancers in their own right.

WHY RECOVERY MATTERS MORE THAN EVER

Show horses work at extraordinary physiological intensity. Every stride over a big oxer, every collected transition in the arena, challenges muscles, joints, and energy systems. Each effort causes micro-damage to muscle fibres and a temporary buildup of metabolic by-products such as lactate and reactive oxygen species.

This isn’t inherently bad; it is, in fact, how strength and adaptation occur. However, if recovery isn’t managed correctly, the controlled stress can tip into inflammation, soreness, and cumulative fatigue.

Research in equine exercise physiology has shown that muscle enzyme markers such as creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) remain elevated for 24–48 hours after

strenuous work, particularly in horses performing high-intensity or repetitive efforts. If a horse is stabled at a multi-day show and asked to perform again before these markers normalise, small inefficiencies in recovery can snowball into poor performance or even injury.

Recovery, therefore, isn’t passive. It needs to take the form of ‘continued training’ by other means.

COOLING SCIENCE

Few sights are more familiar than a groom standing by a wash bay, hose in hand. Cooling has long been an after-work ritual, but the science of how and why to do it effectively has evolved dramatically.

When a horse works hard, core body temperature can exceed 40°C.

Left unmanaged, this can cause muscle protein denaturation and cellular stress. Studies from the University of Queensland and the FEI’s Equine Thermoregulation Group confirm that cold-water immersion is the fastest and safest way to reduce post-exercise temperature and, therefore, reduce the risks of heat damage to cells in the body.

We need to forget the old fear of ‘cold shock.’ The evidence is clear: rapid cooling - with copious cold water over the entire body, especially large muscle groups like the quarters and shoulders - promotes recovery by:

• reducing muscle enzyme leakage,

• limiting inflammation, and

• supporting cardiovascular stabilisation.

The key to cooling is duration and flow. Continuous cold hosing for 10–20 minutes is more effective than intermittent splashing. Ice boots, once controversial, are now validated as part of the modern recovery toolkit.

HYDRATION TO RESTORE BALANCE

Even mild dehydration impairs a horse’s thermoregulation and recovery. Studies show that a loss of just 2–4% body weight from sweat can delay muscle repair and increase post-work stiffness.

Access to cool, clean water at all times is fundamental, but plain water alone may not be enough after

exercise, especially in hot climates like ours or when competing in multiday events.

Electrolyte loss varies by horse and workload, but sodium, potassium, and chloride are critical for restoring plasma volume and muscle function. Research-backed electrolyte mixes (avoiding sugar-laden or flavoured options) help the body retain fluid more efficiently.

TOP TIP

Horses drink better when water is familiar. Bringing water from home or gradually mixing local water with your stable supply can make a measurable difference in intake.

MUSCLE RECOVERY

Equine sports medicine has entered a new era of biochemical monitoring. Bloodwork measuring CK, AST, and LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) levels now allows vets and trainers to assess not only health but training response and overexertion.

For example:

• CK (Creatine Kinase) rises sharply within hours of intense effort and returns to normal within a day or two if recovery is adequate.

• AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) peaks later - around 24–48 hoursindicating longer-term muscular strain.

Tracking these enzymes over a season can help riders and trainers identify when a horse needs a lighter workload, additional rest, or even nutritional support to aid in muscle repair. Supplements containing vitamin E, selenium, and amino acids such as lysine are shown to assist cellular recovery when used judiciously.

The future may even include stableside testing kits for early detection of muscular stress, a powerful welfare tool that could prevent injury before it occurs.

THE ART OF REST

True recovery isn’t just cooling and hydration; it’s time.

In human sport, ‘supercompensation’ is the principle that improvement happens not during exercise, but in the recovery window that follows. Horses are no different.

Muscles remodel, glycogen stores replenish, and tissues heal most effectively during sleep and lowstress turnout. Yet competitive schedules often cut rest short. Riders returning from multi-day shows are encouraged to think in 48-hour recovery cycles.

For example:

Day 1: hand-graze, light walk, and full turnout

Day 2: relaxed hack or stretching session with full turnout

Day 3: return to moderate training if all signs are normal with full turnout

Behaviour is a guide, too. A horse that seems flat, disinterested, or unusually tense after the show is likely communicating fatigue. Recovery plans must be as individual as training programmes.

FROM REACTIVE TO PROACTIVE STRATEGIES

Fundamentally, the recovery revolution is about recognising that welfare and performance are not opposites; they’re inseparable.

A horse that cools efficiently, rehydrates fully, and rests deeply is not only healthier but mentally more willing and confident. Recovery work builds resilience, reduces injury risk, and extends careers - benefits that align perfectly with the growing emphasis on longevity in modern sporthorse management.

THE TAKEAWAY

Recovery isn’t the pause between achievements; it’s the foundation that makes the next one possible.

For the serious rider, that means shifting from tradition to evidence – from ‘what we’ve always done’ to ‘what the horse’s body needs.’

The science is clear that when we prioritise recovery, we’re investing more wisely in our horse’s health, wellbeing and ultimately performance.

Q: WHY IS MY HORSE GRUMPY TO GIRTH UP?

A: Girthiness is almost always a communication of discomfort. Horses may pin their ears, swish their tails, or step away because tightening the girth triggers pain or anticipation of pain.

Common causes include:

• Gastric ulcers or general gastric sensitivity - one of the most frequent triggers.

• Saddle fit pressures, particularly behind the shoulder, where the girth and saddle interact.

• Muscular tension through the pectorals, lats, or sternum.

• Ribcage restriction from past injuries, poor posture, or lack of core engagement.

• Cold-start tightness if the girth is tightened abruptly.

Supportive steps:

• Try a different girth shape or material (anatomical, padded, stretchy) to reduce pressure points.

• Warm up the chest and sternum muscles with gentle massage, belly lifts, or walking before tightening.

• Girth gradually, one hole at a time, walk a few steps, then tighten again.

• Ensure the saddle isn’t slipping forward or pinching, and book a professional fit check if needed.

• If signs persist, investigate for ulcers or underlying pain with your vet.

Addressing the root cause nearly always improves the situation.

Q: CAN HORSES GET BORED IN THEIR WORK?

A: Absolutely, some horses can experience mental staleness, just like riders do. An understimulated horse may feel flat in the aids, switched off, distracted, spooky or may just anticipate each request. These are common signs that the horse’s brain isn’t being stimulated or that the routine has become too predictable.

While horses thrive on structure, they also need variety and enrichment to stay motivated and emotionally well.

Signs of ‘boredom’ include:

• Loss of forward energy

• Anticipation of movements and aids

• Tension, spooking, or distraction

• Repetitive behaviours in the stable or arena

• A general ‘shut down’ feeling under saddle

How to keep your horse mentally engaged:

• Vary the routine: Change the order of schooling exercises or ride in a different space.

• Add polework, grids, or even simple raised poles to encourage focus and proprioception.

• Incorporate hacking, even short walks, to offer a change in scenery and pace.

• Mix in groundwork or in-hand exercises to stimulate the horse’s mind and body differently.

• Try liberty work or obstacle-style play to build confidence and curiosity.

• Expose the horse to different environments, footing, and safe new experiences.

Small changes in routine can transform their enthusiasm and your partnership.

WHEN THE GUT AFFECTS THE BRAIN

HOW THE EQUINE MICROBIOME INFLUENCES BEHAVIOUR, FOCUS AND PERFORMANCE

For years, equine science focused primarily on the musculoskeletal system, specifically tendons, joints, muscles, and conditioning. However, recent research has shifted attention inward, to a system less visible yet, it emerges, equally vital to performance: the gut.

The so–called gut–brain axis, the constant communication between the digestive tract and the central nervous system, is now recognised as one of the most powerful regulators of equine mood, focus, and even trainability.

THE GUT AS A ‘SECOND BRAIN’

The horse’s digestive system contains an estimated 100 trillion microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts, and protozoa. These are collectively known as the microbiome. This ecosystem ferments fibre, produces essential nutrients, and maintains immune health.

Fascinatingly, though, it also produces chemical messengers such as serotonin, dopamine, and short–

chain fatty acids that directly affect the horse’s nervous system. When the gut is inflamed or imbalanced, those communication signals can alter behaviour, making a normally calm horse edgy, reactive, or unfocused.

NOTE: The vagus nerve also plays a role in this communication between gut and brain, serving as its main information highway, continuously sending messages between the intestines and the brain.

SIGNS THAT SOMETHING’S OUT OF BALANCE

Early indicators of gut dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) may include:

• Poor appetite or weight loss despite adequate feed

• Loose or inconsistent droppings

• Girthiness, resentment of grooming, or sensitivity along the flanks

• Mood swings, spooking, or ‘explosive’ reactions under saddle

• Dull coat or chronic low–grade colic

DID YOU KNOW?

Around 90% of the body’s serotonin is produced in the gut. The microbiome influences tryptophan metabolism, which directly affects the production of serotonin – one of the body’s key neurotransmitters for mood regulation. In horses, just as in humans, serotonin doesn’t only affect happiness; it plays a role in patience, trainability, and response to pressure. An imbalanced gut can skew this system, meaning that shifts in microbial composition can alter mood and reactivity from the inside out.

What’s fascinating is how quickly behaviour can shift once the gut environment is restored. Researchers have documented calmer demeanours and better recovery rates in horses whose microbiota have been supported through diet and management.

INFLAMMATION, STRESS, AND THE PERFORMANCE LINK

Competition horses live lives full of potential stressors: travel, changes in routine, high–energy diets, and too much time in the stable. Each of these can disrupt the delicate microbial balance of the hindgut.

When that happens, harmful bacteria can release toxins that damage the intestinal lining, triggering

inflammation and allowing endotoxins to leak into the bloodstream – a process known as leaky gut. These inflammatory molecules can influence the brain, heightening anxiety and reducing mental clarity.

Studies in both humans and animals show that systemic inflammation can impair decision–making, focus, and stress control, which are all critical traits in an athlete that must perform under pressure.

SHORT–CHAIN FATTY ACIDS (SCFAS)

Beneficial gut bacteria produce short–chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate – tiny but powerful compounds that serve as an essential fuel source for the intestinal lining. These metabolites help maintain the integrity of the gut barrier, reducing inflammation and preventing harmful substances from leaking into the bloodstream. When that barrier is intact, the horse’s immune and nervous systems remain stable; when it falters, systemic inflammation can ripple outward, subtly altering energy levels, focus, and even temperament.

FEEDING FOR A HEALTHIER MIND

Supporting the gut–brain axis starts in the feed room. The equine gut evolved for constant, low–starch grazing, yet modern feeding practices often rely on large, high–energy meals. This mismatch disrupts the microbial community and, by extension, the horse’s mental balance.

Fibre is the cornerstone of equine health; without enough long–stem roughage, the microbial community begins to collapse. Horses evolved to graze for 16–18 hours a day, and long gaps without forage can create acid spikes and microbial die–off.

Feeds high in non–structural carbohydrates (NSC) – starch and sugars – trigger spikes in blood glucose and the stress hormone cortisol, lowering microbial diversity and increasing hindgut acidity. Over time, this can make horses more reactive, less focused, and slower to recover from stress.

By contrast, continuous access to forage stabilises pH and supports the microbes that produce SCFAs, fostering calmness and consistency. Long–stem roughage, multiple hay types, and slow–feeding systems mimic the horse’s natural grazing rhythm, keeping digestion and mood steady.

Consistency is also key in feeding. Even a change in hay type can shift the microbiome within 24–48 hours, sometimes leading to transient colic or behavioural changes. Any feed alteration should be made gradually over at least a week.

Hydration also plays a vital role. Electrolyte imbalances and dehydration

slow gut motility and fermentation, which can cause both physical discomfort and mental restlessness. Ensuring access to fresh water, free–choice salt, and proper electrolyte supplementation during travel or competition supports both gut and brain performance.

Prebiotics (such as yeast cell wall extracts and inulin) feed beneficial bacteria, while probiotics supply living strains of those bacteria directly. Emerging interest also surrounds postbiotics, which are the beneficial metabolites produced by microbes, such as butyrate, which helps reduce inflammation and strengthen the gut lining.

FEEDING FOR THE MIND

Do:

1. Provide ad–lib or constant access to good–quality forage.

2. Use slow–feed haynets or multiple hay stations to mimic natural grazing.

3. Choose low–NSC feeds (starch + sugar below 12%).

4. Introduce new feeds gradually over seven to ten days.

5. Offer plain salt and clean water at all times, especially during travel or after work.

Don’t:

1. Feed large concentrate meals (over 2 kg per serving).

2. Make abrupt feed or hay changes.

3. Restrict forage for weight control without professional guidance.

4. Ignore subtle signs of gut stress, e.g. girthiness, loose droppings, mood changes, or loss of focus.

Equally important are management factors: consistent turnout, reduced travel stress, gradual feed changes, and slow feeding systems that mimic natural grazing patterns.

For performance horses, nutritional strategies that stabilise the microbiome – such as buffer supplementation, low–starch diets, and the use of specific yeast cultures – can have measurable behavioural benefits. Riders often report improvements in rideability, relaxation, and focus.

BEYOND FEED

The gut–brain connection also reminds us that stress works both ways. Chronic anxiety, inconsistent handling, or lack of turnout can alter gut motility and microbial diversity. Calm, consistent environments support digestive health just as much as good feed.

In this sense, ‘training the brain’ also means ‘caring for the gut.’ Techniques that promote relaxation – from long, low warm–ups to predictable routines – help lower cortisol levels, allowing the gut to function more efficiently. This results in a horse who not only feels better but thinks better.

DIAGNOSTICS

While microbiome science is still emerging, it’s already beginning to reshape equine sports medicine.

Faecal microbiome testing is now available through a few pioneering laboratories, such as EquiBiome in the UK. These tests analyse the bacterial DNA present in a sample, offering a snapshot of gut diversity and identifying imbalances that may be linked to metabolic stress, poor condition, or reactivity.

blood inflammatory markers, including serum amyloid A (SAA) and fibrinogen, as indirect indicators of gut stress. Elevated levels can suggest chronic inflammation, often correlating with changes in behaviour, energy, and performance consistency.

In addition, some equine sports medicine practices are introducing gut health scorecards, which

with laboratory data. These integrated assessments give riders and vets an early warning system before small imbalances become performance–limiting issues.

While equine microbiome testing remains in its infancy, early results are promising – helping veterinarians identify patterns of bacterial diversity linked to resilience, focus, and recovery.

DID YOU KNOW?

Poor microbial diversity can compromise nutrient absorption, leading to energy fluctuations, muscle fatigue, and reduced mental sharpness. A horse that seems dull, distracted, or overly reactive may simply be lacking the metabolic support it needs for calm focus.

LOOKING AHEAD

The science of the equine microbiome is still evolving, but its implications are far–reaching. In the future, microbiota testing may become part of the pre–purchase exam or be used to guide dietary or management decisions with precision. Already, researchers are exploring microbial ‘fingerprint’

associated with calmness, athleticism, and stress resilience.

For now, what we know is simple but quite profound: when we nurture the gut, we nurture the mind; ultimately, the horse’s digestive and nervous systems are not separate entities but work together to create happy, healthy horses.

Q: WHY DOES MY HORSE STRUGGLE WITH FLYING CHANGES?

A: Flying changes are one of the most technically demanding canter skills; they require strength, straightness, balance, timing, and clear communication. When a horse has difficulty; it’s usually a physical or educational gap.

COMMON UNDERLYING CAUSES:

• Weak hindquarters: The change depends on the hindlegs stepping under and ‘jumping through.’ If the horse lacks strength, the change becomes late, crooked, or rushed.

• Asymmetry: Most horses are naturally stronger on one side. This shows up as a tendency to fall out through the shoulder, swing the quarters, or change late behind.

• Poor straightness: A flying change cannot be clean if the horse is not aligned through the body.

• Lack of balance in the canter: If the canter is too flat, too fast, or not adjustable, the change will fall apart.

• Misunderstanding of the aids: Confusion often looks like rushing, hopping, or swapping only in front.

• Discomfort: SI, hock, or stifle issues can make the movement physically challenging.

HOW TO BUILD THE FOUNDATIONS:

• Canter–walk–canter transitions: These develop hindleg strength and improve reaction to the aids without emotional pressure.

• Counter-canter loops: The best

prep for straightness, balance, and control.

• Small lateral work in canter: Leg-yield out on a circle or gentle shoulder-fore helps the horse step under and stay aligned.

• Adjustability exercises: Lengthen and collect within the canter to improve balance and self-carriage.

• Simple changes on a diagonal: Reinforces clarity of aids and keeps the horse relaxed.

Once the canter is strong, straight, and adjustable, the flying change becomes a logical next step rather than a stressful leap.

Get Back to Balance.

Because when the gut is off, everything is off.

Your horse's gut isn’t just where digestion happens — it’s where stress shows up, immunity starts, and condition is built (or lost).

From loose droppings to poor coat quality, the signs of an unbalanced digestive system are often hiding in plain sight.

Balius Gut Solution helps restore and maintain harmony in the gut — naturally. Trust your horse’s health to what works.

Q: MY HORSE NAPS WHEN LEAVING THE YARD. WHY IS THIS?

A: Napping is almost always about insecurity, loss of confidence, or confusion. From the horse’s perspective, leaving the yard means leaving the safety of the herd, which triggers instinctive hesitation. Some horses simply need more support before they feel confident enough to go out alone.

COMMON REASONS FOR NAPPING:

• Lack of confidence hacking alone: Especially in young or inexperienced horses.

• Separation anxiety: Herd-bound horses struggle when taken away from companions.

• Pain or discomfort: Hindlimb, back, or saddle issues can make forward movement feel difficult, especially on uneven terrain.

• Rider tension: If the rider braces or anticipates a problem, sensitive horses can interpret this as danger.

• Unclear aids: Some horses nap when they’re unsure what is being asked.

HOW TO HELP YOUR HORSE GAIN CONFIDENCE:

• Start on the ground: Lead out on foot so the horse can explore the environment with your support.

• Buddy up: Hack with a calm, experienced horse until yours starts to feel secure.

• Short, successful missions: Ride just a few metres out of the gate, praise, turn home, and repeat. Gradual exposure builds confidence.

• Stay calm and neutral: Never punish fear-driven behaviour.

• Check for discomfort: If napping appears suddenly, investigate physical causes.

With consistent, confidencebuilding training, most horses learn that leaving the yard is safe, and eventually even enjoyable.

This pad from EquiteX allow horses to develop muscles while in ridden work through the use of technical foam that springs back after every stride.

APPLE CIDER

VINEGAR

OLD-FASHIONED TONIC OR MODERN-DAY MYTH?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been poured into horse feed buckets for decades thought to be a splash of something sharp to ‘clean the system,’ ‘acidify the gut,’ or ‘ward off flies.’ But how much of this is folklore, and how much is backed by science?

A BRIEF HISTORY OF VINEGAR IN ANIMAL CARE

The use of vinegar as a health tonic dates back thousands of years. Ancient Greek and Roman texts describe its use to ‘purify’ and ‘sharpen’ the body, while early horsemen added it to feed or water to ‘brighten the coat’ and ‘sweeten the stomach.’ Its modern revival in equine management owes more to anecdote than research, but there are kernels of truth behind some traditional claims.

Commercial ACV typically contains 4–6% acetic acid, as well as trace minerals, pectin, and small amounts of polyphenols (plant antioxidants).

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS (AND DOESN’T)

Unlike probiotics, omega–3s, or vitamin E, there is limited controlled research on the use of ACV in horses. Most studies on vinegar’s effects have been conducted in humans or livestock.

Still, here’s what science – and careful inference – suggest:

• Urinary pH: The popular claim that ACV ‘acidifies the urine’ has some merit in other species, but equine kidneys maintain a strong buffering capacity. In horses, it’s unlikely to have a significant impact unless given in large (and potentially unpalatable) doses.

• Digestive health: A small 2017 study showed that acetic acid may slow gastric emptying in humans, improving glycaemic control. Some

owners extrapolate this to horses, believing ACV may ‘balance’ stomach acidity or deter ulcers, but no equine studies confirm this, and many suggest the opposite may in fact be true.

• Antimicrobial properties: Acetic acid does inhibit certain bacteria and fungi in vitro, but that doesn’t automatically translate to benefits inside a living gut. Still, it may help maintain hygiene in feed buckets, automatic waterers, or when used as a mild stable disinfectant.

• Insulin sensitivity: A handful of studies in humans and rodents suggest vinegar may modestly improve insulin sensitivity. For easy keepers and those with Equine Metabolic Syndrome, some owners see it as a gentle dietary support, though again, evidence in horses is lacking.

THE MYTHS AND THE MARGINS

The ‘fly deterrent’ claim remains largely anecdotal. Horses fed ACV don’t appear to attract fewer insects in controlled conditions, though vinegar–based sprays may offer mild topical effects when mixed with essential oils.

Similarly, the idea that ACV can ‘dissolve calcium deposits’ or ‘flush toxins’ has no scientific basis and risks oversimplifying the complex chemistry of the equine body.

WHEN IT MIGHT BE USEFUL

ACV may genuinely help in these cases:

• To encourage picky eaters, a light drizzle adds tang and moisture, improving palatability.

• As a natural rinse for buckets or brushes, it offers mild antimicrobial cleaning without harsh residues.

• Mixed with water as a post–work coat rinse, it can help remove sweat residue and restore coat shine.

RISKS

Despite its popularity, ACV is not recommended for horses with gastric or hindgut ulcers. Its acidic nature (pH ≈ 2.5–3.5) can increase stomach acidity, particularly in the sensitive non–glandular region of the equine stomach where most ulcers occur. Rather than neutralising acid, vinegar can heighten irritation or discomfort, especially in horses already prone to gastric pain or girthiness.

Veterinary nutritionists caution that while small, diluted amounts of ACV are unlikely to harm healthy horses, there is no peer–reviewed evidence showing that it prevents or heals ulcers. In fact, early reports and expert commentary suggest it may worsen gastric inflammation in susceptible individuals.

DID YOU KNOW?

In competitive sporthorse populations, 6 to 9 out of every 10 horses will develop some form of gastric ulcer during their careers.

If you suspect your horse may have ulcers – or if you’re already managing a diagnosed case – avoid adding ACV until advised by your vet. Focus instead on proven management strategies such as ad–lib forage, reduced starch intake, turnout, and veterinary–guided treatment.

Ultimately, for ulcer–prone horses, ACV could do more harm than good.

FEEDING ACCORDING TO FACTS

DID YOU KNOW?

Ulcers are extremely common in performance horses, so much so that equine gastric ulcer syndrome is often described as a ‘disease of domestication and athleticism.’

Like many old stable remedies, apple cider vinegar occupies a grey area between tradition and science. It’s unlikely to transform health or performance, but equally, it’s not without its small merits when used wisely. However, it should be added with great caution in horses with suspected ulcers, and as the rate of ulcers in sporthorses is purported to be much higher than we recognise, this may rule out its use in many of our equines.

IN SUMMARY

It’s not a miracle, but not a myth either. It’s an ingredient that keeps us asking better questions, and that’s exactly what makes it intriguing.

Q: HOW DO I KNOW IF

MY

SADDLE STILL FITS?

A: Saddle fit isn’t static; it changes as your horse’s weight, muscle development, training level, and even age shift throughout the year. Checking fit seasonally (or every three to four months for sporthorses) helps prevent discomfort before it becomes a training or behaviour problem.

KEY SIGNS YOUR SADDLE MAY NO LONGER FIT:

• Behavioural changes: Dipping away when you mount, tail swishing, pinned ears, or reluctance to stand still.

• Contact issues: Resistance in transitions, difficulty bending, or unwillingness to go forward.

• Physical clues: Uneven sweat patches, ruffled hairs, dry spots under the panels, or a sore back after riding.

• Balance changes: The saddle tipping forward or backward, sliding to one side, or feeling unstable in canter.

• Muscle changes: Visible hollows behind the shoulder or loss of topline may indicate long-term pressure.

HELPFUL CHECKS YOU CAN DO YOURSELF:

• Run your hand under the panels before and after riding. Look for pressure points or heat.

• Watch your horse walk out immediately after untacking: a short, tender stride can signal discomfort.

• Film yourself riding. If your saddle

consistently shifts to one side, the issue may be asymmetry in the saddle, the horse, or the rider.

WHEN IN DOUBT:

Have a qualified saddle fitter assess your horse in motion and at rest. Small changes in flocking or gullet width can make a big difference to comfort and performance.

A well-fitted saddle protects your horse’s back, allows correct biomechanics, and helps you both work in harmony, so it’s always worth checking before problems arise.

Rising 2yo:

Martini Delroy (Dallas VDL x Callaho’s Corinth) - dam jumping in the opens

Martini Lamosa (Legend KWPN x Argentinus) – dam produced wining 1,40m horses Callaho Talana & Callaho Corina

Yearlings:

Martini Pinot Noir (Pegase van’t Ruyterhof/ Berghof Eragon) – dark bay colt

Martini Kool Blue (Kobalt VDL/ Ubergabe) – grey colt out of proven dam line of Callaho Liberace

Martini Uno Chocolate (Up To You/ Candy de Nantuel) - bay filly

CONTACT STUD OWNER: Claire Martin on 0825007273 or martinistud@gmail.com

@ Martini Stud

HOW TO READ A HAY ANALYSIS

When it comes to feeding performance horses, forage isn’t just filler; it’s fuel. Any information about the quality of hay we are feeding is thus invaluable and can tell us about the true nutritional value of what our horses are eating and how balanced their overall diet is.

This kind of information requires a hay analysis, which, whilst not readily available to owners in South Africa, has been performed by several feed companies and vets. The information they can give us about the kind of hay in our area or the general trends and characteristics of the hay we are using is something many of us don’t know we can ask about, but should.

To help demystify lab reports and understand what a hay analysis (often filled with numbers and acronyms) can tell us, once acquired from a vet, equine nutritionist or feed company, we asked an equine nutrition expert to break it down.

WHY HAY ANALYSIS MATTERS

Forage makes up the majority of a horse’s diet, so understanding what’s in your hay allows you to make informed decisions about concentrates, supplements, and balancers. Analysing hay can reveal if your horse is getting enough protein, energy, and minerals, or if their feed plan is leaving nutritional gaps.

It’s particularly vital for horses with specific needs: those prone to laminitis, metabolic disorders, ulcers, or intense competition workloads.

KEY COMPONENTS TO LOOK FOR

1. Dry Matter (DM)

Dry matter reflects the portion of hay excluding moisture usually around 85–90% for good-quality hay. It’s the value used to compare different feeds fairly.

2. Crude Protein (CP)

Protein supports muscle repair, growth, and overall health.

• Good hay for performance horses: 10–14% CP

• Maintenance or easy keepers: 7–10% CP

Low protein may lead to poor topline and slow recovery, while excessive levels can stress the kidneys and lead to dehydration.

3. Fibre: NDF and ADF

• Neutral Detergent Fibre (NDF) indicates how ‘filling’ a hay is, i.e. how much a horse can eat before feeling full. Higher NDF means more structural fibre and less intake.

• Acid Detergent Fibre (ADF) measures indigestible components like lignin. The lower the ADF, the more digestible the hay.

Ideal range:

• NDF: 50–65%

• ADF: 30–40%

4. Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSC)

NSC includes sugars and starches so is crucial for energy but risky for horses prone to laminitis or ulcers.

• Low NSC (<10%): safe for metabolic or ulcer-prone horses

• Moderate NSC (10–12%): ideal for most riding horses

• High NSC (>15%): suitable only for hard-working sporthorses under careful management

5. Minerals and the Ca:P ratio

Calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) are essential for bone health and muscle function. The correct Ca:P ratio should be 1.5–2:1. Imbalance can hinder bone strength and performance.

Also check magnesium, potassium, and trace minerals (zinc, copper, selenium) as deficiencies are common in local hays.

SCIENCE SIMPLIFIED: DECODING HAY FIBRE

When you see ADF and NDF on a hay analysis, don’t panic; they’re just two ways of measuring fibre quality. Together, they tell you how digestible your hay is and how much energy your horse can get from it.

NDF - NEUTRAL DETERGENT FIBRE

What it measures: The total bulk of the plant’s cell wall, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin.

What it means: The higher the NDF, the more fibrous (and filling) the hay. Horses can’t digest this fibre directly; it’s fermented by microbes in the hindgut.

In practice:

• Low NDF (below ~40%) – softer, leafier hay that’s easy to digest and higher in energy.

• Moderate NDF (40–55%) – ideal balance for most performance horses.

• High NDF (above ~60%) – coarse hay that fills the gut quickly but offers less energy.

Use it to: Match hay type to your horse’s needs, i.e. high-NDF for easy keepers, low-NDF for hard-working or hard-keeping horses.

ADF - ACID DETERGENT FIBRE

What it measures: The least digestible portion of the fibre, cellulose and lignin (the woody, structural parts of plants).

What it means: The higher the ADF, the less your horse can actually digest and convert to energy.

In practice:

• Low ADF (below ~30%) – highquality, nutrient-dense hay with good digestibility.

• Moderate ADF (30–40%) –acceptable for most adult horses.

• High ADF (above ~45%) – mature, stemmy hay that’s lower in calories and harder to break down.

Use it to: Judge hay quality at a glance. A low ADF number means better digestibility and more nutritional value per kilo.

NDF AND ADF = DIGESTIBILITY AND FILL

Think of it this way:

• NDF tells you how much hay a horse can eat before feeling full.

• ADF tells you how much energy they’ll get from what they’ve eaten.

Together, they’re the best indicators of hay quality and suitability, even more than protein alone.

SCIENCE SIMPLIFIED: WHAT ‘NSC’ REALLY MEANS

When you see NSC (Non-Structural Carbohydrates) on a hay or feed label, it refers to the sugars and starches your horse can quickly digest for energy. Unlike the slowfermenting fibres in forage, NSCs deliver fast fuel, but too much can disrupt the gut and trigger metabolic or gastric issues.

WHY NSC MATTERS

Sugars and starches are digested in the small intestine and absorbed as glucose. In hard-working horses, this fuels performance. However, in horses with metabolic problems, ulcers, or a risk of laminitis, high NSC levels can overwhelm the system, leading to blood sugar spikes, hindgut acidosis, or inflammation.

INTERPRETING NSC VALUES

SCIENCE BEHIND THE NUMBERS

NSC is calculated as the sum of simple sugars + starch, sometimes including fructans (complex plant sugars). It’s best measured through laboratory analysis, though most feed companies can provide approximate figures for their products.

IN PRACTICE

If your horse is prone to ulcers, metabolic syndrome, or ‘hot’ behaviour, choose hay or feed with lower NSC and spread meals out to stabilise gut pH and blood sugar.

For intense work, moderate NSC can support muscle glycogen replenishment, provided the diet still includes ample fibre and balanced electrolytes. NSC RANGE

Low (<10%)

Safe for horses with metabolic issues (EMS, PPID) or prone to ulcers and laminitis.

Moderate (10–12%)

High (>15%)

Sensitive or resting horses

Balanced energy level for most riding and competition horses. General performance or leisure horses

High-energy fuel for elite athletes — but requires careful feed management and monitoring. Hard-working sporthorses only

THE SOUTH AFRICAN REALITY

In South Africa, hay analysis isn’t as straightforward as it might sound. Few independent laboratories routinely offer equine forage testing, and most horse owners don’t have easy access to facilities that can interpret results in an equine context.

However, several major feed companies and equine nutrition consultancies do offer hay testing services, either through partnerships with agricultural labs or as part of their diet-formulation programmes. While this may not be practical

for every horse owner, it can be invaluable for studs, performance yards, or riders managing high-level competition horses, where precision feeding can have a tangible impact on performance and recovery.

For everyday horse owners, the key takeaway is awareness: hay quality and composition can vary dramatically depending on grass species, cutting stage, and region. Even without lab testing, choosing hay that’s leafy, soft, and sweetsmelling, and avoiding overly coarse or stemmy types, remains the best starting point.

INTERPRETING THE RESULTS

Once you know the nutrient profile of your hay, you can choose the right balancer or concentrate to fill any gaps. For instance:

• Low protein? Add a legume hay or high-protein balancer.

• High NSC? Reduce concentrates or add beet pulp.

• Low calcium? Supplement or mix with lucerne.

Always consult an equine nutritionist to balance the full diet.

A NOTE ON GRAZING

A hay analysis gives invaluable data, but it only tells part of the nutritional

story in terms of forage. For many South African horses, pasture makes up a large portion of their diet - and grass can vary even more than hay in energy, sugar, and fibre content.

The same principles that apply to hay analysis also shape pasture quality. As grass matures, its fibre levels (ADF and NDF) rise, while crude protein (CP) and digestibility decline. Early, leafy growth provides more energy and protein but can also be higher in sugars. Mature, stemmy grass offers bulk and gut fill, yet fewer calories, which is ideal for good doers or horses needing weight control.

On top of this, fresh grass is dynamic. Its non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), the simple sugars and starches that provide quick energy, fluctuate throughout the day. During sunny hours, photosynthesis drives sugar production, peaking in the late afternoon; overnight, those sugars are used for growth, so levels fall again by morning. This means that a horse grazing in the cool, early hours will consume significantly less sugar than one turned out on the same pasture in the afternoon.

Season and climate add another layer. Irrigated summer pastures or post-rain regrowth often contain high NSC levels - sometimes over 20% - increasing the risk of laminitis or metabolic flare-ups in sensitive horses. Conversely, dry winter veld or mature kikuyu can be very high in fibre (NDF > 65%) and low in

protein, meaning horses may require additional energy and amino acids from concentrates.

Because forage testing of paddocks isn’t common or practical in South Africa, owners need to rely on observation: watch how your horse’s weight, energy, and droppings change with the season, and adjust concentrates accordingly. For metabolic, ulcer-prone, or overweight horses, consider nighttime turnout, grazing muzzles, or restricted access to rich grass.

In short, understanding pasture nutrition uses the same logic as reading a hay report, just without the laboratory numbers. The goal is balance: enough fibre to sustain gut health, enough protein to support muscle and topline, and sugar levels appropriate to your horse’s needs.

DIY HAY EVALUATION: A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR SOUTH AFRICAN RIDERS

If lab testing isn’t accessible, you can still assess hay quality using your senses. While this won’t replace a nutritional analysis, it can help you make smarter choices at the feed store or when buying bales from different suppliers.

LOOK

• Colour: Bright green or golden hues suggest good curing and vitamin preservation. Grey or brown hay may indicate overheating, rain damage, or age.

• Leafiness: The more leaves, the higher the nutrient content. Stemmy, coarse hay is lower in energy and harder to digest.

• Uniformity: A consistent texture and cut across the bale usually means even drying and less chance of mould.

SMELL

• Sweet and fresh: The best hay has a clean, grassy aroma.

• Musty or sour: Signs of mould or bacterial spoilage - don’t feed this to horses, even in small amounts.

TOUCH

• Soft, flexible stems: Indicate early cutting, which is richer in protein and easier to chew.

• Hard, brittle stalks: Mean the grass was cut too late and has lower digestibility.

CHECK FOR CONTAMINANTS

• Watch for weeds, sticks, or foreign material.

• Inspect for dust clouds. To do this, shake a small flake; excessive dust suggests mould spores or poor storage.

• Always avoid hay with any black or white mould spots.

QUICK TIP

If you regularly feed hay from different regions or suppliers, introduce new hay gradually over seven to ten days to protect gut microbes and reduce the risk of colic.

BOTTOM LINE

Understanding your hay analysis, or at least beginning to understand what it means, can help you to understand your horse’s nutrition and its balance. When combined

with consideration of grazing quality and the nutritional values of the concentrate you feed, you can begin to ensure your horse’s diet truly supports their work, temperament, and long-term health.

CHG EQUESTRIANS WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE OUR NEW TEAM MEMBERS IN KZN, NATASHA

FRENZEL (PARKER) AND KRISZTIE PARKER.

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Natasha and Krisztie are open for business in KZN with Trinity, our equestrian simulator.

JOIN THEM FOR THE UPCOMING SIMULATOR CLINICS ON:

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’s

HORSE WORLD

‘ICKS’…

TO ‘COPY’ THE CURRENT TREND GOING AROUND, THESE ARE THE ODDLY SPECIFIC THINGS THAT MAKE US GO ‘ABSOLUTELY NOT.’

1. Not scratching or patting a horse after a round or test.

2. Not plaiting a horse for a ‘big show’.

3. Girths yanked up in one motion (let the intercostals breathe –literally).

4. Wearing helmets with an inadequate safety rating.

5. People who disrespect staff, grooms, stewards and volunteers.

6. Dressage test readers’ voices that echo across three provinces.

7. Schooling in a saddle that doesn’t fit because the ‘saddle fitter’ comes next month.

8. People forgetting stallions are still horses and need the 3F’s.

9. The person who borrows your fly spray ‘just once’ (i.e. every single day).

10. People who claim their horse is ‘naughty’ and ‘out to get them’.

11. Putting dirty boots onto a horse’s legs.

12. The rider who asks to school with you, because they are taking it easy today, and proceeds to perform a Grand Prix Freestyle involving EVERY SQUARE INCH OF THE ARENA.

13. The communal stable yard hosepipe left in a tangled heap of despair with 55 kinks.

14. Stirrup leathers that haven’t been conditioned since the Jurassic Period.

15. Upside-down bits.

16. Warming up directly behind you… very, very close.

17. Riders who claim the judge ‘has it in for them’, every single test.

18. Coaches who shout at other students in the warm-up ring.

19. Tight nosebands.

20. Riders who insist they are not competitive but sprint to the scoreboard like it’s the Olympics.

YOUR EQUESTRIAN QUESTIONS ANSWERED

My horse has started stumbling more frequently. Sometimes it’s just a toe drag, but other times he feels as if he loses his balance for a stride. How do I know what’s ‘normal’, and what’s a sign of something serious?

Occasional stumbling can happen to almost any horse, especially when they’re tired, on uneven ground, or mentally distracted. But consistent stumbling. or stumbling that feels unlike your horse’s usual way of going, deserves closer attention because stumbling can be the first subtle sign of discomfort, weakness, poor proprioception, or even neurologic compromise.

Below are the key considerations vets and biomechanics specialists use to differentiate between ‘common and harmless’ and ‘worth investigating’. However, as always, we recommend going to a vet as a first port of call rather than waiting and trying to ‘diagnose’ the issue yourself.

COMMON CAUSES OF OCCASIONAL STUMBLING

1. Fatigue or low concentration

Young horses, unfit horses, and horses returning to work often lose focus or coordination toward the end of a session.

Clue: Usually improves with fitness and consistent schooling.

2. Toe–dragging caused by mild weakness or laziness

Some horses move close to the ground naturally, particularly those with long toes or downhill balance.

Clue: Improves with transitions, polework, and engagement.

3. Environmental factors

Uneven ground, deep footing, slippery patches, or shadows can all cause a momentary mis–step.

Clue: Happens only in specific places or conditions.

4. Tack or rider–related balance issues

A saddle that tips your horse slightly onto the forehand, or a rider who gets ahead of the movement, can contribute to the issue.

Clue: Disappears with correct balance and improved posture.

WHEN STUMBLING IS A RED FLAG

1. A sudden change in your horse’s normal pattern

If a horse who never stumbles suddenly begins tripping repeatedly, assume pain or neurological compromise until proven otherwise.

2. Stumbling that feels like a loss of limb control

This can indicate neurological involvement, such as spinal compression, EPM–like disorders, or cervical issues.

Warning signs:

• Crossing limbs awkwardly

• Difficulty stepping over poles

• Dragging hind toes

• Trouble walking downhill

This warrants urgent veterinary assessment.

3. Stumbling accompanied by other signs of discomfort

These can include:

• Head nodding or head flinging

• Resistance in transitions

• Difficulty bending one way

• Shortened stride

• Reluctance to go forward

Pain in hooves, fetlocks, shoulders, or the neck is common.

Long toes, low heels, or an overdue shoeing cycle can dramatically increase tripping.

Clue: If stumbling increases as you approach the next farrier appointment, hoof balance may be a key factor.

5. Weakness in the core or thoracic sling

A horse who ‘falls onto the forehand’ is more likely to trip.

Clue: Stumbling during downward transitions or on the corners.

6. Lameness that is too subtle to see plainly

Many horses show pain first through proprioceptive mistakes, not through an obvious head–bob. This is especially true with bilateral lameness.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

Depending on your particular situation, we recommend the following:

1. Book a veterinary evaluation

Your vet may perform a full lameness work–up including flexion tests, nerve blocks, radiographs, or neurologic assessment, depending on the horse’s presentation.

2. Call your farrier

A skilled farrier assesses toe length, heel support, medial–lateral balance, and hoof landing patterns.

3. Review saddle fit and rider biomechanics

A crooked rider or unstable saddle can tip a horse off balance.

4. Strengthen your horse’s core and hindquarter

Cavaletti, hillwork, transitions, and slow, controlled strengthening exercises improve proprioception and reduce stumbling.

FINAL THOUGHTS

A once–off stumble isn’t a crisis, but a pattern of stumbling is never something to ignore. Horses are designed to be highly coordinated; when that coordination falters, it’s often the first sign of trouble. Early intervention – through veterinary investigation, hoof care and thoughtful conditioning – can prevent a small issue from becoming a career–limiting problem.

I keep hearing about ‘conditioning’ and ‘strength training’ for sporthorses. Are they the same thing? How do I know if my horse is actually getting fitter, and not being overworked?

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, strength training and conditioning target different systems in the horse’s body, and both are essential for performance, soundness, and longevity. Understanding the difference helps you plan a training week that builds a resilient athlete without tipping into fatigue or overtraining.

CARDIOVASCULAR CONDITIONING VS MUSCULAR STRENGTH

CARDIOVASCULAR CONDITIONING

This develops the heart, lungs, and aerobic capacity,

i.e. your horse’s ability to work for sustained periods without fatigue or lactic acid build–up.

Improved by:

• Long, slow distance (walking/trotting)

• Hillwork

• Interval training

• Canter sets

• Regular work at moderate intensity

You’ll notice:

• Lower heart rate during work

• Faster recovery

• Ability to maintain rhythm and focus for longer periods

• Greater stamina in jumping rounds or dressage tests

MUSCULAR STRENGTH TRAINING

This develops the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and postural stability that support collection, jumping, bending, and carrying the rider.

Improved by:

• Transitions

• Lateral work

• Polework and cavaletti

• Short hill sprints

• Gymnastic lines

• Collected work (in moderation)

You’ll notice:

• Better lift in the wither

• Increased hind–end power

• Improved straightness

• A more uphill way of going

• Ability to maintain self–carriage

HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH?

Horses adapt gradually. Both cardiovascular and strength systems improve through progressive overload – small, controlled increases in demand – and adequate recovery.

Healthy progression looks like:

• Increasing duration or intensity by 10–15% per week

• Introducing one variable at a time (e.g., more reps or higher poles, not both)

• Alternating hard days with easy days

• Watching for signs of fatigue

Red flags you’re doing too much:

• Stumbling or tripping

• Loss of impulsion

• Irritability when tacking up or mounting

• Swelling or heat in limbs

• Increased spookiness (often fatigue–related)

• Longer recovery time after rides

• ‘Flat’ canter or loss of jump power

A well–conditioned horse should feel better over time, i.e. more balanced, more willing, more through the back.

AVOIDING OVERTRAINING

Training stress only produces improvement if paired with recovery. Overtraining is surprisingly common and can set the horse back weeks.

To be on the safe side, you should include:

• At least one full rest day per week

• One easy stretch/long–rein day

• Variation in surfaces and environments

• Careful monitoring of body condition, topline, and attitude

Recovery allows tissues to repair, muscular microdamage to resolve, and the nervous system to reset.

AN EXAMPLE OF A BALANCED WEEK

A good programme trains both systems while avoiding overload. Here’s a sample weekly plan for a sport horse at Novice – 1.30m level (adaptable to your needs):

Monday – Conditioning (aerobic base)

Long, low–impact trot sets or hillwalks

Tuesday – Strength

Transitions, lateral work, polework

Wednesday – Light day

Stretching, hacking, long rein

Thursday – Strength and power

Gymnastic lines, hill sprints, collected work

Friday – Conditioning

Canter intervals, stamina building

Saturday – Skills day

Flatwork refinement, small course, test practice

Sunday – Rest

This pattern balances cardiovascular load, muscular development, skill acquisition, and recovery.

SUMMARY

Strength training builds the body. Conditioning builds the engine. A successful programme develops both progressively.

If your horse is getting stronger, recovering well, and maintaining enthusiasm for the work, you’re doing enough. If performance plateaus, behaviour changes, or recovery slows, it’s time to adjust the plan.

My horse works nicely in straight lines, but as soon as we start lateral work including leg-yields, shoulder-in and halfpass, he comes against the hand. Why does this happen, and what should I look at first?

Lateral work asks far more of the horse’s posture, strength, balance, and coordination than straight work. When a horse resists the contact in these movements, there is almost always a biomechanical reason. Understanding which system is struggling helps you address the root cause instead of managing the symptoms.

Here are the most common reasons horses resist the contact during lateral work:

1. THORACIC SLING WEAKNESS

The thoracic sling - a network of muscles including

the serratus ventralis and pectorals -suspends the ribcage between the shoulders. It’s responsible for:

• Lifting the wither

• Allowing correct bend

• Maintaining shoulder freedom

• Supporting balance during sideways steps

When it’s weak, the horse cannot truly raise the forehand or ‘stay up’ in the contact. Instead, he may:

• Lean on the inside shoulder

• Tip forward

• Dive onto the forehand

• Brace against the rein when asked to bend

What helps:

Polework, correct transitions, hillwork, and short bouts of well-ridden shoulder-fore. Think ‘lift before you bend.’

2. STRAIGHTNESS ISSUES

Lateral work magnifies any asymmetries already present. A horse who is:

• Stiff to one side

• Hollow on the other

• Haunches drifting

• Neck overbent but body straight …will struggle to find the elastic, consistent contact the movement requires.

Often the horse resists because the movement is being asked on top of crookedness he already cannot fix without help.

What helps:

Correctly ridden shoulder-fore, centreline work, and deliberate alignment checks before you start the lateral movement.

3. HINDLEG AVAILABILITY

Contact always reflects what the hindlegs are doing. If the hindleg cannot step under and across, the horse cannot:

• Maintain push

• Maintain balance

• Coordinate bend and sideways steps simultaneously

In lateral work, the inside hind needs to be available, strong, and supple. If it’s weak or restricted, the horse may:

• Pop the shoulder

• Block in the ribcage

• Shorten the neck

• Grab or hollow into the contact

What helps:

Transitions within gaits, small circles, leg-yield away from the stiff side first, and strengthening exercises like raised poles.

4. SADDLE FIT ISSUES

A poorly fitting saddle can make lateral work uncomfortable by:

• Restricting scapular movement

• Pressing on the trapezius

• Causing ribcage rotation discomfort

• Triggering back bracing when the horse is asked to flex and bend

A horse may accept contact on the straight but resist during lateral work because the shape of his back changes during sideways movement.

What helps:

A professional saddle assessment, particularly checking shoulder clearance and panel balance.

5. RIDER ASYMMETRY

Lateral work exposes rider crookedness more than almost any other movement. Common rider issues include:

• Collapsing through one side of the ribcage

• Hanging on one rein

• ‘Helping’ the movement with the hand instead of the leg

• Losing alignment of hip–shoulder–hand

• Sitting behind the movement

These subtle patterns can create uneven pressure in the reins, leading the horse to resist.

What helps:

Lunge lessons, mirrors, video feedback, Pilates for riders, and exercises to improve hip mobility and evenness.

FINAL THOUGHTS

When a horse resists the contact in lateral work, it’s due to biomechanical limitations.

Improving:

• Thoracic sling strength

• Straightness

• Hindleg stepping-under

• Saddle comfort

• Rider symmetry …will almost always resolve the resistance and create the soft, elastic connection you’re aiming for.

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Q: WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO IMPROVE MY HORSE’S CANTER?

A: A good canter isn’t created by riding more canter; it’s created by riding it better. Because canter is a highly collected, three-beat gait, improvements come from developing strength, balance, coordination and straightness, not speed or mileage.

A great starting point is transitions within the gait. Think of them as gym work for the hindquarters: ride from working canter to a slightly more collected canter, then forward again, without losing rhythm. These halfhalted ‘mini transitions’ teach the horse to sit, push and carry more weight behind.

Small, well-ridden circles also help. A 15–18m circle encourages the horse to lower the inside hip, step under the body, and organise the canter stride. Keep the tempo slow and the bend correct - a circle that’s too small or too quick will cause the horse to fall in or rush.

Add pole work to improve lift, rhythm and strength. Single poles encourage the horse to elevate the shoulders; canter pole lines (properly spaced) help regulate stride length and increase hindleg flexion.

To further develop balance, incorporate lateral work in canter, such as shoulder-fore, shallow loops, or gentle leg-yield out of a circle. These exercises engage the thoracic sling, unlock the ribcage and encourage the horse to stay straight between the aids.

Finally, remember that canter quality improves most through strength, not speed. Avoid riding your horse ‘forward’ to the point of losing balance or running. Instead, aim for a feeling of spring, elasticity and lightness that comes from the hindquarters doing more of the work.

If your horse struggles to hold the canter, falls in, rushes, or becomes tense, consider checking saddle fit, back comfort or hock/stifle soundness, as physical discomfort can make strength work very difficult.

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