These definitions may sound similar but, when we relate them to our horses, the difference is clear. ‘Conformation’ is the way that the horse ‘is put together’, and cannot be changed. Consider children – some of us are born with long legs and knock-knees, others are shorter with strong, muscular limbs. These are traits that we are born with and affect the way we move and navigate the world. In horses, conformation affects the way that they are able to move their body, and may also affect their ability to perform. For example, in the case of a Friesian – they have impressive action, a broad chest and high head carriage. They were bred to pull a cart, so their conformation is not well suited to jumping a course of large fences, or playing high-speed polo. As such, breed societies have ‘breed standards’ or characteristics that the particular breed is expected to display often, according to their function.
‘Posture’ can be described as the way a horse ‘carries himself’. Back to the example of the long-legged child – should that child hurt their right knee, their posture may change as they try to take the weight off the right leg and compensate with the left leg. In essence, the way that they carry themselves and use their body can change. Should this change not be addressed, the muscles on either side of the body will develop asymmetrically, causing a vicious circle of postural changes and compensations.
This story is from the June/July 2020 edition of HQ magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June/July 2020 edition of HQ magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The Science Behind Tapering
The science behind tapering
Horse Treats
The ultimate guide
Horsey Hair Care
Tips and tricks for a healthy mane and tail
Horsey Hydration- The Importance Of Water In Winter
The importance of water in winter
A Horseback Safari
Abelana Game Reserve
The Psychology Of Riding Performance
Intrinsic motivation, part 7
10 Best Life Lessons From Horses
Life lessons from our horses
Breaking New Ground
The evolution of the Callaho Online Auction
Horse Psychology 101
Part 3: The horse's cognitive abilities
Colic Part 1
An owner’s worst nightmare