Soundness and symmetry in the equine hoof are influenced by a whole host of factors — quite possibly enough to fill an entire book. With that in mind, in this article, Mark Johnson focuses on some of the most common elements he comes across in his daily work as a hoof-care provider.

Ros Canter outlines some of the principles that underpin her training system and the importance of soundness and symmetry in her horses.

Correct saddle fit is fundamental to equine comfort, performance and, above all, welfare. Yet one of the most common, and most misunderstood issues affecting ridden horses is saddle slip.

You’ve probably heard the old saying, “No hoof, no horse.” It may sound like a cliché, but this timeless truth highlights just how critical good hoof care is to your horse’s health, performance, and long-term soundness. In fact, the hoof is not just a supporting structure - it’s a dynamic, weight-bearing, shock-absorbing marvel that influences everything from movement to posture.

Have you ever considered the benefits of an equine water treadmill for your horse? Once reserved for elite racehorses and for rehabilitation, water treadmills are now becoming an increasingly popular tool for horse owners looking to improve equine health and performance. Combining the resistance of water with the support of buoyancy, these treadmills offer a low impact yet highly effective workout that can aid in injury recovery, build strength, and enhance cardiovascular fit

As owners, riders, trainers and therapists we are all striving to ensure our horses are symmetrical and sound. But what does that really mean? Soundness and symmetry in the horse refers to the balance and harmony of the musculoskeletal system and its impact on how the horse moves.   While we understand that both symmetry and soundness are essential for the optimal health, welfare and performance of horses, how do we achieve it – is it just a case of correct training, manageme

When we think about the horses we ride, train or care for, soundness and symmetry often go hand in hand and they are something many of us, quite understandably, take for granted.

Starting a young horse's training is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it also comes with huge responsibility. The choices made in the early years will directly impact the horse’s future soundness, performance, and overall well-being.

When we are looking to buy a new horse, we are encouraged to look at its conformation. Horse conformation is the study of the shape and structure of a horse's body. Conformation is influenced by the length and angles of the bones, the size and shape of the muscles, and the balance and symmetry of the horse. Correct conformation is important for long term performance and soundness because it may determine how well a horse can move, carry weight, and avoid injuries. In this art