28/07/2026
⚠️ Hard ground warning ⚠️
The recent extended period of dry weather has really caused the ground to harden up. Are you aware of the risks of riding on hard ground?
🐎 Exercising your horse on hard ground can cause concussion-related lameness issues. When the horse’s hoof meets the ground, it’s subjected to a great deal of concussive force.
When the ground is softer, it absorbs some of the impact and provides cushioning to the foot - but the harder the ground, the less force is absorbed and the more stress on the horse.
It’s not only ridden horses who are at risk of concussive injuries from hard ground - any retired oldies who like to show you they’ve still got it by galloping round their paddock can also do themselves some damage! If this sounds like your horse, consider bringing them in a little earlier than usual.
Shod horses are also at greater risk from hard ground than unshod horses, as unshod horses actually absorb some of the concussive forces through their frogs.
Hard ground can cause injuries like:
🔵 Jarring injuries
⚪️ Tendon and ligament injuries
🔵 Bruised soles
⚪️ Splints
🔵 Concussive laminitis
⚪️ Pedal bone fractures
You can reduce the risk by:
🔵 Trying not to work your horse on hard ground too often
⚪️ Choosing softer surfaces for jumping where possible
🔵 Apply cold water after hard work
⚪️ Maintain your horse’s overall fitness/strength
🔵 Listen to your individual horse
