Introduction to Horse Walkers
Horse walkers have been around for over a century. These motorized devices are essential for exercising horses without human help.
They provide a circular motion that allows the horse to move around without a rider. The primary purpose of horse walkers is to warm up and cool down horses before and after exercise.
As an essential piece of equipment in any barn, horse walkers come in different types, each with its unique features and benefits. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the world of horse walkers, from their definition and function to cost, duration, and benefits.
Definition and Function of Horse Walkers
A horse walker is a motorized device used to exercise horses. It consists of a central motor that drives a circular mechanism which in turn powers the movement of the horse.
Horse walkers come in different sizes and are capable of accommodating multiple horses simultaneously. They are designed to ensure that horses receive exercise even when there is no one to ride them.
The primary function of a horse walker is to provide exercise without human help. This is important in cases where riders are unavailable, or when horses require exercise outside their usual riding schedule.
Horse walkers are also instrumental in warming horses up and cooling them down before and after exercise. They ensure that the horse’s muscles are ready for the task ahead or have a chance to rest after an activity.
Types of Horse Walkers
Horse walkers come in different types, each with unique features and benefits. The type of horse walker chosen depends on the specific needs of the horse and the barn owner.
Lead Walkers
Lead walkers are the simplest form of a horse walker. They consist of a central motor that powers the movement of a single horse.
The horse is attached to a rope or lead that controls the direction of movement. Lead walkers are ideal for horses that require exercise but are not used to the circular motion of a horse walker.
Panel Walkers
Panel walkers are the most common type of horse walker. They consist of a central motor that drives a circular mechanism surrounded by panels.
These panels prevent the horse from escaping or injuring itself during exercise. Panel walkers can accommodate multiple horses simultaneously, making them ideal for large training facilities.
Water Horse Walkers
Water horse walkers are similar to panel walkers, but with the added benefit of water. The circular mechanism is installed within a pool of water, allowing horses to exercise while getting hydrotherapy.
Water horse walkers are ideal for rehabilitating horses after an injury or for those requiring a low-impact exercise.
Benefits of Horse Walkers
Guaranteed Exercise
Horse walkers ensure that horses receive exercise regularly. This is beneficial in maintaining the health and fitness of the horse.
Regular exercise keeps the muscles toned and the joints flexible, reducing the risk of injury.
Steady Rhythm and Speed
Horse walkers provide a steady rhythm and speed that is crucial in maintaining the horse’s fitness. Consistent exercise allows the horse to develop stamina and strength, making it more capable of handling strenuous activities.
Bad Weather Exercise
Horse walkers are instrumental in ensuring horses receive exercise even during inclement weather. Inclement weather can limit the ability of trainers to ride horses.
Horse walkers provide a necessary alternative to ensure that horses continue to receive exercise throughout the year.
Rehabilitation After Stall Rest
Horse walkers are instrumental in rehabilitating horses after a period of stall rest. A horse that has been on stall rest for an extended period will need to be gradually reintroduced to exercise.
Horse walkers provide a safe and controlled way to do this, ensuring that the horse regains its strength and fitness at a comfortable pace.
Cost of Horse Walkers
The cost of horse walkers varies depending on the type, quality, and location of purchase. Basic horse walkers cost anywhere between $1,500 and $3,500.
High-quality horse walkers can cost upwards of $10,000. Panel walkers are generally more expensive than lead walkers due to their larger size and added features.
Additional costs may include installation, maintenance, and any necessary repairs.
Duration of Horse Walker Use
The optimal duration of horse walker use varies depending on the horse’s needs. It is recommended that horses receive a minimum of 30-50 minutes of exercise on the horse walker per day.
Competition horses may need up to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on their training schedule.
Conclusion
Horse walkers are an essential piece of equipment in any barn. They provide horses with guaranteed exercise, consistent rhythm and speed, year-round exercise, and rehabilitation after stall rest.
Horse walkers come in different types, with each offering unique benefits. The cost of a horse walker varies, depending on the type and quality.
The duration of horse walker use depends on the specific needs of the horse. Horse walkers are an invaluable tool for maintaining the health and fitness of horses, making them an essential investment for any barn owner.
Considerations for Purchasing a Horse Walker
Investing in a horse walker is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Factors such as the available space, supervision requirements, alternative methods, and personal choice must be taken into account before making the purchase.
Space and Supervision Requirements
Space is one of the most important considerations when purchasing a horse walker. An adequate amount of space is required to accommodate the horse walker, tracks, and horses.
The space must also account for the horses’ safety and comfort during use. It is recommended to have at least a 10-foot clearance between the edge of the track and any obstacles, such as walls or fences.
Supervision is also an essential consideration when investing in a horse walker. It is recommended that horses are never left unattended while using the walker.
Supervision ensures that any accidents or injuries are quickly addressed, and the horses remain calm and quiet during exercise.
Alternative Methods
Although horse walkers are an essential piece of equipment in any barn, they are not the only alternative when it comes to exercising horses. Other options include treadmills and turnout areas.
Treadmills are an alternative form of exercise for horses that provides a controlled and consistent environment. They can be used to walk, trot, and canter horses and provide a low-impact exercise that reduces the risk of injury.
However, treadmills can be expensive, require a lot of energy to operate, and may not be as effective as horse walkers for horses that require a circular motion. Turnout areas are another option for exercising horses.
Turnout areas provide an opportunity for horses to graze and move around naturally, making them a preferred option for many horse owners. However, turnout areas may not be suitable for all horses as they do not provide consistent exercise and may be limited by space.
Personal Choice in Owning a Horse Walker
Personal choice plays a significant role in deciding whether or not to invest in a horse walker. Owners must consider their wants and needs and whether the investment is financially viable.
Some horse owners believe that horse walkers are essential in maintaining their horses’ health and fitness, while others may prefer alternative methods of exercise. Condemnation and support from other horse owners can also influence personal choice.
While some horse owners may support the use of horse walkers, others may criticize horse owners for taking the easy way out or ‘doing less work.’ Ultimately, the decision to invest in a horse walker should be based on the needs of the horses and the owner’s goals and priorities.
Risks and Safety Measures for Using Horse Walkers
Horse walkers, like any equipment used with horses, are not risk-free. It is important to understand the potential risks and safety measures that should be taken when using a horse walker.
Potential Accidents
Horses using a walker may kick, buck, or trip, causing injury to themselves or others nearby. The circular motion of the horse walker may also cause horses to become disoriented or dizzy, leading to falls or accidents.
Additionally, horses may get tangled in the ropes or chains attached to the walker. It is important to ensure horses are adequately supervised and the equipment is well-maintained to minimize the risk of accidents.
Safety Measures for Use
Breakaway halters are recommended for horses using a walker. These halters are designed to break if a horse gets tangled or caught in ropes or chains, preventing serious injury or even death.
Nylon ropes with a snap are also recommended as they allow a horse to break free if they get stuck. Well-maintained tracks, free from uneven surfaces or debris, are also essential for minimizing accidents.
Tracks should be checked regularly for signs of wear and tear and repaired immediately. Supervision is critical to ensure safe walker use.
An emergency button should also be installed within easy reach to stop the walker if an accident occurs.
Panel Walker Electric Current
Panel walkers use electrical current to encourage the horse to move. The electrical current is used to provide a mild shock if the horse does not move forward within a set amount of time.
However, electrical shocks should never be used to punish a horse or force them to move faster than they are comfortable with. It is essential to ensure that the panel walker’s electrical system is well-maintained and regularly checked by an electrician to reduce the risk of short circuits or electric shocks.
Conclusion
Investing in a horse walker requires careful consideration of the available space and supervision requirements, alternative methods, personal choice, and safety measures. Risks associated with horse walker use include potential accidents such as kicking, bucking, or tripping, while safety measures include using breakaway halters, well-maintained tracks, supervision, and an emergency button.
Panel walkers use electrical current to encourage the horse’s movement, but care must be taken to ensure their proper maintenance and appropriate use. Overall, the decision to invest in a horse walker should be based on the horse’s needs and the owner’s goals and priorities.
Horse Adaptation to the Horse Walker
Using a horse walker is an excellent way to provide horses with a controlled environment for exercise. However, some horses may express skittishness, spooking, or discomfort when introduced to the walker for the first time.
Proper set-up, training, and regular use can help horses adapt to the walker and enjoy its benefits.
Horses Not Adapting to the Walker
Some horses may be hesitant to use the horse walker, particularly if they are not accustomed to the circular motion. The horse may display skittishness or spooking, making it difficult to convince the horse to use the walker.
Horses may also experience discomfort, particularly if the walker is not balanced or set up correctly. To encourage the horse’s adaptation to the walker, owners should ensure that the walker’s set-up is appropriate for the horse and provide proper training.
Over time, the horse will become accustomed to the walker’s motion and develop confidence in using it. Proper Set-Up for the Horse in
Lead Walkers
Proper set-up of the horse’s equipment is crucial to their comfort and confidence in using the walker.
In lead walkers, horses are attached to a rope or lead that controls the direction of movement. It is essential to ensure that there is slack in the rope to allow the horse to move their head up and down, as well as balancing the walker.
The horse’s head should be at a level position to avoid straining the neck and causing discomfort. Balancing the walker refers to ensuring that the horse’s weight is distributed evenly in the walker to avoid unwanted movements or swinging.
Proper set-up for the horse is crucial in ensuring their comfort and confidence in using the walker.
Importance of Walking Horses Both Ways and Avoiding Stress on Joints
To maximize the benefits of horse walker use, it is essential to walk the horses both ways and avoid stress on the joints. Walking horses both ways ensures that all muscles and joints receive equal exercise, reducing the risk of muscle or joint imbalances that can lead to injury.
Additionally, avoiding stress on the joints, particularly those in the lower leg, is crucial in preventing injury. Horse walkers with oval-shaped tracks may lead to stress on the joints and are not recommended for long-term use.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the equipment can help pinpoint any issues that may lead to joint stress. Owners should also ensure that horses spend equal time walking and resting to avoid over-exerting or stressing the joints and muscles.
Proper use of horse walkers can result in a safe and effective way to provide horses with consistent exercise while reducing the risk of injury.
Conclusion
Proper set-up and training are crucial in ensuring the horse’s comfort and confidence when using the horse walker. Regular use is essential in adapting the horse to the walker’s motion and maximizing the benefits of consistent exercise.
It is recommended to walk horses both ways and avoid stress on the joints to minimize the risk of injury. Using horse walkers can be an effective tool in providing horses with safe and consistent exercise while improving their overall health and fitness.
In summary, horse walkers are an essential tool for providing horses with consistent and safe exercise, and careful consideration should be given to purchasing, horse adaptation, and safety measures. Space and supervision requirements, alternative methods, personal choice, and horse adaptation to the walker, including proper set-up for the horse in lead walkers, walking horses both ways, and avoiding stress on the joints, should be carefully considered before and during horse walker use.
Proper use of horse walkers can improve the horse’s overall health and fitness while reducing the risk of injury.
FAQs:
1.
Are horse walkers only used for warm-ups and cool-downs? No, horse walkers can also be used for regular exercise when riders are unavailable or during inclement weather.
2. What are some alternative methods for exercising horses?
Treadmills and turnout areas are alternative options for exercising horses, but they may not be suitable for all horses. 3.
How much does a horse walker cost? The cost of a horse walker varies depending on the type and quality, but basic models start at around $1,500, while high-quality models can cost upwards of $10,000.
4. What are the risks associated with using a horse walker?
Horses using a walker may kick, buck, or trip, causing injury to themselves or others nearby. Electrical shocks may also occur in panel walkers.
5. How can I ensure safe use of a horse walker?
Breakaway halters, well-maintained tracks, supervision, and an emergency button are essential safety measures when using a horse walker.