A track system is a great alternative to traditional pastures.
A Paddock Paradise system, also known as a track system, is a unique way to graze your horse. While traditional pastures are often rectangular, a track system differs by creating pathways through a field. The track is wide enough to avoid accidents, but narrow enough to encourage movement. There may be an open grazing pasture or riding arena in the middle. The pathways often include trees, hills, water features, and other natural elements.
As you can imagine, these track systems can be very beneficial to horses. In the wild, horses travel as many as 20 miles each day. They don’t linger in one spot. A domesticated horse tends to get very limited movement, which is less than ideal. The track system creates a more natural lifestyle.
The Benefits of Track Systems
- Movement: As mentioned, your horse will be encouraged to move. They will need to walk around the track in search of food, water, and shelter. Hay stations are set up around the track at different locations.
- Improved health: By walking more, your horse will burn fat, strengthen their muscles, and improve their endurance. Their digestive health will also improve, which reduces their risk for colic.
- Better hoof health: Exercise also stimulates healthy hooves. They will become thicker and tougher!
- Weight management: Many horses should not be turned out onto lush grass pastures. Some will be at risk for laminitis. Others will become overweight or even
obese. This puts them at risk for many health concerns. In the track system, large grazing spaces can be eliminated. The track can be dirt or gravel. - Works with small acreage: For those with limited space, a track system can allow you to make the most of your land. Your horses will still be able to move around and get the exercise they need.
- Mimics natural environment: Your horse can live their most natural life. They can be turned out 24/7 (without risk of laminitis). The track can cover all sorts of terrain. Some of the track may be through the woods or have sand pits. There can be logs and water features. The options are endless.
- Mental health: Your horse can socialize with the herd in a stimulating and enriched environment. They’re less likely to develop vices like cribbing or weaving!
- Less herd conflict: Because there are different hay stations, your herd can spread out. That isn’t always possible when there is one round bale in the middle of a paddock.
- Improved confidence: Your track can expose your horse to new environments and scenery. If it goes through the woods or has logs, your horse will be able to explore on their own terms. This can boost their confidence when you trail ride.
- Simple to design: A track system can be simple and affordable! You just need a perimeter fence and simple interior fence. The interior fence can be electric like RAMM’s Shockline Flex Fence Coated Wire. RAMM’s 525 Plus Flex Fence would be a great perimeter option!
Your horse is one step closer to a happy and natural lifestyle! The physical and mental benefits of a track system make it well worth the investment.
