Balance pads for horses are an easy way to help your horse get better at balance and knowing where its body is. These pads make the ground wobbly, so your horse has to use small muscles to keep from falling. Riders and trainers use balance pads for practice, healing, and to help with proprioception. Studies show horses are less steady at first, but after four weeks, they get stronger and steadier.
| Measure | Result After 4 Weeks | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Postural sway | Decreased | P < 0.0004 |
| Muscle size | Increased | P = 0.021 |
This is why more people now use balance pads to help their horses stay healthy.
Key Takeaways
- Balance pads help horses get better at balance. The pads make the ground wobbly. This makes small muscles work harder. It also helps horses control their bodies more.
- Using balance pads often can make muscles bigger. It can also stop horses from shaking. This helps horses move steady and feel more sure.
- Balance pads help hurt horses get strong again. They help horses find balance and trust their bodies. The pads let horses heal in a safe way.
- Pads come in different materials and shapes. This changes how comfy and helpful they are. Pick the right pad for your horse’s size and mood. Think about what your horse needs.
- Begin with short times on the pads. Watch how your horse acts. Keep the pads clean and safe. This helps you get the best results.
How They Work?
Instability and Balance
When you put your horse on balance pads, the ground feels shaky. The pads move under your horse’s feet. This makes your horse work harder to stay still. Small postural muscles help your horse keep balance. These muscles do not get used much on flat ground.
Horses may feel wobbly at first. This is normal. The challenge helps your horse learn to control its body better.
Researchers have looked at how horses act on these pads:
- Horses sway more when they first use foam pads.
- After four weeks of using the pads twice a day, horses become steadier.
- The pads help your horse get better at balance by making the body adjust.
- Muscle size does not change much in four weeks, but control and stability improve.
- Over more time, horses doing core exercises with balance pads get bigger spinal muscles and sway less.
So, using balance pads helps your horse build better balance and stronger back muscles.
Proprioception
Proprioception means knowing where your body parts are without looking. Horses need this skill to move safely and not get hurt. When your horse stands on a wobbly pad, it must focus on every step.
You might see your horse think more about where to put its feet. The pads send signals to the brain. This tells your horse to move its legs and body. This helps your horse become more aware of its body.
- Horses using balance pads in rehab programs move with better control.
- Bigger spinal muscles from these exercises help your horse stay steady, even on bumpy ground.
- Better proprioception means your horse can react faster and move with more confidence.
Tip: Try using balance pads before or after riding. You may notice your horse moves smoother and stands more evenly.
Benefits
Stability and Coordination
When you use balance pads with your horse, you help it stand steadier. Horses often stand on flat ground, so their small muscles do not get much work. The pads make your horse shift its weight and adjust its feet. This helps your horse learn how to stay upright, even when the ground is not flat.
- Your horse will start to move its legs with more control.
- You may notice your horse stands more evenly after a few sessions.
- Horses that practice on pads often trip less and walk with more confidence.
Horses that use balance pads often show better posture and smoother movement. You might see your horse become more sure-footed on trails or in the arena.
Rehabilitation
Balance pads can help your horse recover from injuries. If your horse has been hurt, it may need to relearn how to use its muscles. The pads give your horse a safe way to practice moving again.
- Horses in rehab programs use pads to build strength after leg or back injuries.
- The pads help your horse use muscles that protect joints and bones.
- You can use pads to help your horse regain trust in its body.
A simple routine with pads can speed up healing. Your horse will not only get stronger but also feel more comfortable moving around.
| Rehab Goal | How Pads Help |
|---|---|
| Regain balance | Forces small muscles to work |
| Build muscle | Encourages steady movement |
| Prevent re-injury | Improves body awareness |
Strength and Conditioning
You want your horse to be strong and fit. Balance pads make workouts more interesting and effective. When your horse stands or moves on a pad, it must use its core and back muscles.
- Pads help your horse build muscle without heavy exercise.
- You can use them for young horses, older horses, or horses in light work.
- Horses that use pads often have stronger backs and better toplines.
Try adding pads to your horse’s weekly routine. You may see better muscle tone and a happier, healthier horse.
Types of Balance Pads
Materials and Shapes
You can find balance pads in many shapes and materials. Most pads use foam or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer). Foam pads feel soft and squishy under your horse’s feet. TPE pads are a bit firmer and last longer. Some pads have a non-slip surface, so your horse feels safe and steady.
Pads come in different shapes, like squares, rectangles, or even ovals. Some are thick and bouncy, while others are thin and firm. The shape and thickness can change how much your horse’s feet sink in. Thicker pads give more wobble, which makes your horse work harder to balance.
A few studies looked at how different materials affect your horse. For example, polystyrene pads with lower density (16kg/m3) and medium thickness (60mm) keep their bounce and help blood flow in the hoof. But if the pad is too thick, your horse might feel uncomfortable. Other research shows that materials like cowhide and reindeer fur can spread out pressure under the saddle, making your horse more comfortable. Still, no pad removes all pressure, so you want to pick a pad that fits your horse’s needs.
Tip: Try different shapes and materials to see what your horse likes best. Watch for slipping or pads that feel too soft or too hard.
Professional and Everyday Use
Some balance pads are made for everyday use at home or in the barn. These pads are simple, easy to clean, and work well for most horses. You can use them for warm-ups, cool-downs, or just to help your horse stand better.
Professional-grade pads, like SURE FOOT pads, are used by trainers and therapists. These pads often have special features, such as extra grip or unique shapes. Professionals use them in rehab programs or for horses with special needs. You might see these pads in clinics or with horses recovering from injuries.
| Type | Best For | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday pads | Home use, daily care | Simple, easy to clean |
| Professional pads | Rehab, therapy, clinics | Extra grip, special shapes |
No matter which type you choose, balance pads can help your horse feel steadier and more confident.
Using Balance Pads
Training and Therapy
You can use balance pads in many ways to help your horse. Start slow. Let your horse sniff and touch the pads first. Place one foot on a pad, then let your horse get used to the feeling. When your horse feels comfortable, add more feet. Some horses like to stand with just their front feet on the pads. Others may want to try all four.
Try using balance pads before you ride. This can help your horse wake up its muscles and focus. You can also use them after riding to help your horse cool down and relax. Many people use pads in the stable or in the arena. You do not need a lot of space. Just make sure the ground is flat and safe.
Here is a simple step-by-step routine:
- Place the pads on the ground.
- Lead your horse to the pads.
- Let your horse step on with one foot.
- Wait until your horse feels steady.
- Add more feet if your horse feels ready.
- Keep sessions short at first—just a few minutes.
Tip: Watch your horse’s body language. If your horse seems unsure, go back a step and try again later.
Safety Tips
Safety comes first when you use balance pads. Always stand beside your horse, not in front or behind. Use a lead rope and wear sturdy shoes. Make sure the pads do not slip on the ground. Check that your horse’s hooves are clean before starting.
- Never force your horse onto the pads.
- Stop if your horse looks stressed or scared.
- Keep sessions short and positive.
- Use pads on a non-slip surface.
If you use balance pads in a busy barn or arena, pick a quiet time. This helps your horse stay calm and focused. You can also ask a friend to help, especially when you try pads for the first time.
Remember: Every horse learns at its own pace. Patience and praise go a long way!
Choosing and Caring
Selection Factors
Picking the right pads for your horse can feel tricky, but you can make it simple. Start by thinking about your horse’s size and weight. Bigger horses need thicker or firmer pads so they don’t sink too much. If your horse is young or nervous, try softer pads first. These feel less strange and help your horse get used to the new feeling.
Check the surface of the pads. Non-slip pads help your horse feel safe and steady. You want to avoid pads that slide around. Look at the shape, too. Some horses like square pads, while others do better with ovals. If you plan to use the pads for rehab, talk to your vet or a trainer. They can help you pick the best type for your horse’s needs.
Here’s a quick table to help you decide:
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Horse’s size | Thicker, firmer pads for big horses |
| Temperament | Softer pads for nervous horses |
| Surface | Non-slip for safety |
| Shape | Try different shapes |
| Use | Ask a pro for rehab advice |
Tip: Always watch your horse’s reaction. If your horse seems unsure, try a different pad or shape.
Maintenance
You want your pads to last a long time. Good care makes a big difference. After each use, brush off dirt and hair. If the pads get muddy, rinse them with water and let them dry in the shade. Don’t leave them in the sun for too long. Sun can make the material crack or fade.
Store your pads in a dry place. Keep them away from sharp objects that could poke holes. Check the pads often for signs of wear. If you see cracks or tears, replace the pad to keep your horse safe.
- Clean pads after every session.
- Dry them before you put them away.
- Store in a cool, dry spot.
- Check for damage often.
Note: Well-cared-for pads keep your horse safe and comfortable every time you use them.
You want your horse to feel steady, strong, and confident. Using these pads can help with training, recovery, and daily care. You might notice your horse stands taller and moves with more control. Always talk to a trainer or vet before starting something new. Pick the right pads and keep them clean for the best results.
Your horse deserves the best care—small steps can make a big difference!
FAQ
How long should my horse stand on balance pads?
Start with just 2–3 minutes per session. Watch your horse. If your horse seems relaxed, you can slowly add more time. Most horses do best with short, regular sessions.
Tip: Always end on a positive note!
Can young or old horses use balance pads?
Yes! Horses of all ages can use balance pads. Young horses learn body control. Older horses keep muscles active. Just pick the right pad for your horse’s size and comfort.
Do I need special training to use balance pads?
You do not need to be an expert. Start slow and watch your horse’s reaction. If you want to use pads for rehab, ask your vet or trainer for advice.
How do I clean balance pads?
Use a soft brush to remove dirt and hair. If the pads get muddy, rinse them with water. Let them dry in the shade. Avoid harsh cleaners.
What if my horse does not like the pads?
Some horses need time to get used to new things. Let your horse sniff and touch the pads first. Try again later if your horse seems unsure. Patience helps!
