Causes, treatment, and prevention of a common muscular problem in horsesAtrophythe shrinkage or loss of muscle cellscan affect both a horses performance and his quality of life. | iStockMuscle is the tissue that turns a skeleton into a mobile body. Attached to bones via tendons, muscles contract and relax to maneuver that skeleton. Then theres the smooth muscle that allows all sorts of functions that keep our horses alive and active, from digestion to tissue oxygenation. Muscular activity keeps legs moving, head turning, heart beating, and the lungs breathing. A common skeletal muscle issue is atrophythe shrinkage or loss of muscle cells called myocytes. Stemming from a wide range of causes and linked to potentially serious diseases, muscle atrophy warrants a deeper look.A Real Impact on Your Horses Health and PerformanceWith the crucial role musculature plays in every aspect of life, its easy to imagine the consequences of faulty, diseased muscles. If muscle mass is insufficient, which can occur with muscle atrophy, a horses welfare can be significantly impaired, says Alisa Herbst, PhD, of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, in New Brunswick, who recently developed and evaluated a muscle atrophy scoring system for horses. For example, that horse might not be able to get up after lying down, or he might be unable to avoid an attacking horse, she says. Aside from compromised quality of life, horses with low muscle mass are limited in their ability to perform athletically. Lack of proper muscling increases the risk of injury, especially if high-intensity work or performance is requested.The full extent of the impairment on performance depends on the extent of strength lost from muscle loss compared to the amount of strength required for a given type and intensity of work or performance, she adds.The CulpritsWe can divide the root causes of muscle atrophy into five main categories:Sarcopenia is the Greek-originating scientific name for age-related flesh loss. It refers to a loss of muscle mass, quality, and strength, all of which are common in senior horses. In addition to giving geriatrics a sunken or skinny appearance, with the vertebrae and hip bones protruding, this generalized muscle loss can cause weakness. Some theories suggest sarcopenia is linked to inflamm-aging, a progressive bodywide inflammation affecting older horses and humans (Liang et al., 2022). In people it is also well-established that malnutrition correlates with sarcopenia (Ligthart et al., 2020).Underuse of muscles leads to atrophy. Senior and retired horses are especially at risk of muscle atrophy because of naturally occurring sarcopenia, their tendency to develop pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (more on that later), and the sedentary aspect of their lifestyle. Prolonged inactivity causes both atrophy and functional deconditioning of skeletal muscle, meaning muscle function is lost when unemployed. Muscle misuse can cause atrophy, as well.If a saddle is incorrectly fitted to a horse, that saddle will create painful pressure points on muscles, explains Stephanie Valberg, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, ACVSMR, emeritus Mary Anne McPhail Dressage Chair in Equine Sports Medicine and professor and director of the Neuromuscular Diagnostic Laboratory at Michigan State Universitys McPhail Equine Performance Center, in East Lansing. The pain and soreness will prompt the horse to avoid using affected muscles, manifesting as trouble lifting the back and engaging the hindquarters. The horse wont develop proper musculature because using the muscles hurts.Neurologic diseases, including problems with the nerves innervating the muscle (neurogenic cause), can also lead to atrophy in horses. This could be focal (limited to a specific area) loss of muscle mass from traumatic nerve damage or originate from central neurologic systemic diseases such as equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) and equine motor neuron disease (EMND).Myopathy is an umbrella term that encompasses all muscular diseases. Common myopathies in horses are classified as three types:Those that cause muscle degeneration with exercise, such as exertional rhabdomyolysis, or tying-up.Those that cause damage not associated with exercise (nonexertional rhabdomyolysis).Those that cause muscle atrophy. Common muscle diseases that cause atrophyinclude vitamin E responsive myopathy (VEM), as well as myosin heavy chain myopathy (MYHM) and polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM), both inherited diseases of Quarter-Horse-related breeds, says Valberg.Systemic disease that causes generalized weight and muscle lossbut is not primarily muscular or neurologic in naturecan also lead to this issue. Most commonly, this refers to pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, formerly known as equine Cushings disease). Weve established that muscle atrophy is an important clinical sign of PPID and seems to affect roughly 50% of cases, says Herbst. The visible loss of muscle mass in PPID-affected horses is considered to result from the loss of certain muscle fibers.Study results further suggest muscle atrophy in PPID cases is linked to proteolysisthe breakdown of muscle proteins by enzymes. Pergolide, the treatment for PPID, has not been shown to improve muscle atrophy (Banse et al., 2021). Aside from PPID, other systemic causes of muscle atrophy include cancer, chronic infections, degenerative disorders such as degenerative suspensory ligament disease (DSLD), and malabsorptive disorders, the most common one being leaky gut syndrome.Finding the CauseWith so many possible origins of muscle atrophysome as benign as insufficient exercise and others as grave as cancergetting to the root cause can quickly turn into a detective mission. Rather than a standalone disease, loss of muscle mass is considered a symptom of many conditions.Atrophy can have a range of clinical presentations and underlying causes, says Valberg. This complexity can make diagnosing and treating its underlying cause challenging.To guide veterinarians through the diagnostic process, Valberg has published a diagnostic tree for equine muscle atrophy.As with nearly all health concerns affecting our horses, the recommended first step in diagnosing muscle atrophy is your veterinarian gathering a detailed history and performing a thorough physical exam. In this preliminary stage, the main goal is to simply determine if the origin of the muscle atrophy is muscular, neurogenic, or systemic. Veterinarians have a range of diagnostic tools available to help).Courtesy Dr. Stephanie ValbergEvaluating Atrophy the ScientificWay Using MASSUntil recently, quantifying muscle loss required expensive, hard-to-obtain equipment, such as the three-dimensional photonic scans Valberg and her team use in research settings. That changed in 2022 when Herbst and her team published the Muscle Atrophy Scoring System (MASS). This provides an objective, repeatable, and standardized option for practitionersand horse owners, with some trainingto identify, monitor, and compare muscle atrophy in a particular horse by evaluating muscle in places such as the neck, back, and hind end.Like the Henneke body condition scoring system, MASS scores are based on descriptions of how body regions feel and look, Herbst explains. Using a four-point scale, the MASS scores indicate muscle mass instead of fat. While developing the system Herbst and her team also found that higher MASS atrophy scores correlated with increasing age and with PPID status. These findings support further evaluation of the potential benefits of MASS to identify and monitor muscle atrophy in horses, she says.Building Back: Recovering From Muscle AtrophyThe best treatment plan depends on the underlying cause of your horses muscle atrophy. In ridden horses a saddle fit check is a good first-line solution in cases of topline muscle atrophy. Beyond that initial measure, in some cases treatment will take the form of an oral treatment with medications such as vitamin Ecrucial for muscle health and functionor it may involve a corticosteroid for immune-mediated diseases, says Valberg. To help muscle recover its full form, additional therapies such as physical rehabilitation therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, and electrical muscle stimulation may be indicated. Your veterinarian will guide treatment based on the underlying cause of atrophy.Often, following the treatment plan for a given condition also helps resolve the associated muscle atrophy. Take a horse with osteoarthritis, for example, says Herbst. That horse moves less because of pain and, therefore, develops disuse-related muscle atrophy. Once the pain is resolved, or at least managed, the horse will be willing to put weight on the affected leg again and might be able to tolerate normal exercise. Similarly, if a horse does not eat sufficiently due to a bad infection (e.g., pneumonia) and, therefore, loses muscle, treating the infection will help with food intake and halt, or even reverse, muscle atrophy.Prevention for Healthy HorsesMaintaining healthy muscles in your horse starts with the basics: proper nutrition and exercise. Because vitamin E deficiency is a direct cause of muscle malfunction and atrophy, ensuring appropriate blood levels of the vitamin is crucial. Vitamin E is found naturally in fresh grass. For horses with limited or no access to pasture, ask your veterinarian about blood testing and supplementation. Secondly, barring any physical limitations, your horse will benefit from a regular physical conditioning program to build and maintain healthy musculature. This includes not only your typical ring work but also hill work, longeing with equipment appropriate for your horses individual fitness level, and muscle-building programs such as dry and water treadmills.For owners of healthy horses looking to build strength and stability in the topline musculature, veterinarians often recommend physiotherapeutic stretches. Dynamic mobilization exercisesaka carrot stretcheswere found to increase the size of stabilizing muscle in the horses back, reports Herbst, citing a 2015 study by De Oliveria et al.From a diet standpoint, amino acid supplements may support muscle growth and might also help prevent or slow down muscle atrophy, especially when used in conjunction with an exercise prescription, she says. This being said, supplementation isnt as straightforward as more is always better, says Valberg.If the diet is already well-balanced for muscle health, diet changes are unlikely to affect atrophied muscles, she says. However, if the diet lacks vitamin E and amino acids (the building blocks of protein), then balancing diet accordingly can positively affect muscle health and tone.Take-Home MessageYou can strive to keep your horses muscles at a healthy mass and tone with two of the most commonsense management practices: a balanced diet and a regular exercise regimen. If youre managing your equine partner through an atrophic episode, theres hope. Luckily, muscle possesses a remarkable ability to regenerate, and many horses do return to a normal muscle mass and full function, depending on its cause, says Valberg. To maximize your horses chances of overcoming muscle loss, communicate with your veterinarian at the earliest sign of muscle pain, loss, or dysfunction, and encourage him or her to use the new Muscle Atrophy Scoring System to track progress.

Jack Dore rounded off an excellent Pony campaign to date in Hagen, Germany at the weekend by winning the Grand Prix with K-Little Hero.Fresh from helping the Irish team to a runner-up finish in the Nations Cup having jumped double clear, Dore and the pony owned by his father Carl repeated the feat to come home top of the pile on Sunday afternoon.Dore and K-Little Hero were one of 11 combinations to compete in Sundays jump-off having jumped clear, including compatriot Robbie Sheehan with Pjotr van de Groeunheuvel.Jack Dore after winning the Grand Prix in Hagen with K-Little HeroThe pair were magnificent in the jump-off, going clear and stopping the clock in 41.22 seconds, over a second faster than runner-up Viggo Bergstrand from Sweden, on the Irish Sport Horse Corbeagh Legend.It was a deserved win for the Limerick teenager, and he said: I was very happy to win the Hagen Grand Prix because its a tough one to win.I dont have my pony too long really, I only got him late last year but we clicked together the minute I rode him, which helps a lot. Hes very good and I was delighted to have jumped double clear in the Nations Cup and the Grand Prix.The post Dore delight at Hagen Grand Prix win appeared first on .

Seven international wins for Green Jackets on memorable weekCiaran Nallon (main picture with the soaring Casilla Blue PS and below on the victory podium) had what was surely one of the most lucrative shows of his nascent career with two five-star victories at the Longines Global Champions Tour leg in Ramatuelle, St Tropez last week.The first of those triumphs, on Thursday, came on a day when Cian OConnor and Daniel Coyle also secured elite successes.In all, there were seven international victories at two-star 1.45m or higher, and with a four-star Nations Cup win too in Sopot under the stewardship of Taylor Vard, and Jessica Krtens five-star squad fighting back for a bronze medal in La Baule, it was truly a green-letter week for Irish show jumping.Nallon kicked it off on a tremendous Thursday for Irish riders, by supplying two clear rounds in contribution to his team, Riesenbeck International getting over the line in the Longines Global Champions League.Coming just a week after Max Wachmans League heroics for New York in nearby Cannes, the young Mayo pilot combined with German Christian Kukuk to secure the top spot.Nallon and Casilla Blue take the plaudits from an appreciative Ramatuelle audience after contributing two clear rounds as Riesenbeck International won the Longines Global Champions League leg in St TropezNallon and Casalla Blue PS (Beerbaum Stables) have been producing some excellent results on LGCT all year and they secured a silver medal in the opening 1.60m speed class before supplying another clear round in the 1.55m speed class to finish sixth.Kukuks triumph on Checker 47 helped vault them to the summit of the table, as that duos eight faults in the opening class had left them in fourth.And Kukuk was quick to praise his partner for keeping them in the mix.Even after the first round, I had a good feeling, said Kukuk. Ciaran had a really, really great round and, to be honest, I was also happy with my round despite the two down because Checker felt very good.Ciaran did a great round again (in the second class). His performance was outstanding today with Casalla.Around about the same time, and also in France, Cian OConnor and Genghis Khan (Coolmore Showjumping) came out on top of a thrilling jump-off when denying home supporters, and most specifically, Kevin Staut by the razor-thin margin of four-hundredths of a second in a 1.50m speed class at La Baule.OConnor and his talented 10-year-old (above) revelled under the blue sky at the Franois Andr Stadium and having left all the obstacles intact, stopped the clock in 59.57, which would prove just enough to see off Staut, with Felin De Hus HDC.There was something for the French to be happy about however, as the victorious horse was returning to the land of his birthIt always gives you confidence to win a major class on the first day of a show, said OConnor. Ive been coming to La Baule for many years, and its always a pleasure.Genghis Khan is a French-bred horse, and its fantastic for his breeders to see him return to France and, even better, to see him win here.Coyle completed a stupendous few hours at the highest level for Irish athletes, by taking the top two places at Spruce Meadows. His former mentor and long-time friend, Conor Swail placed a cherry on top by completing a clean sweep.The Recon Metal Cup served as the weeks key qualifying competition for Saturdays RBC Grand Prix of Canada, presented by Rolex, drawing 46 athletes to the International Ring.Riders stepped through the iconic Clock Tower to face the 605m track, featuring 13 obstacles (16 efforts), and a time allowed of 91 seconds in what was a 1.55m class at the famed Calgary arena.Only 12 combinations answered every question asked of the course and advanced to the jump-off but it was Coyle who dominated winning with Farrel (Ariel Grange), stopping the timers in 38.63 in the tiebreaker to cement victory.The pair (above) actually fell behind the target early on but a couple of very tight turns helped make up ground after falling behind early on. In the end, he also claimed the silver ribbon with Farrels Lothlorien Farm stablemate Urville Z, clocking 39.47.Swail also had two horses in the jump-off. Theo 160 (Mannon Farms) knocked the penultimate obstacle in pursuit of the time to be seventh but the Down man was last in with Clonterm Obolensky (Oliver Glancy), the Irish Sport Horse bred in Co Meath by Brian Duff.They were two-tenths in front at the first checkpoint but the tight turns executed by Coyle and his 16-year-old were uncatchable.Spruce Meadows is great, said the Derry native. You come here for the four tournaments and you stay in one place, which we dont get to do much. The horses can grow every week and you can jump a bigger class or a smaller class depending how your week is going so its a really big thing in our schedule.Earlier on, Swail had introduced his two-star winning machine Kazelli VDL to five-star company and he looked very comfortable indeed, jumping to second in the Francis Family Cup 1.50m behind Jos Verlooy and Parise Van Den Dael.Nallon added to the five-star tally for Irish athletes, which he achieved in Ramatuelle on Friday with Megalon K (Beerbaum Stables).It was a sensational display by the pair (above) to win the 1.50m jump-off class with a definitive time of 34.77 when recording their second clear, for it looked as if Katrin Eckermann (GER) and Iron Dames Cascajall NRW had done enough with their standard of 34.90.If I hadnt been watching Katrins round I dont think Id have taken the risk! Nallon said afterwards in relation to a turnback executed by the German that had spectators gasping in the stands.Taking the win yesterday, and again today I think under the south of France sun might just be our lucky charm.On Saturday, Coyle and Farrel would return to the Spruce Meadows podium but not for the first time in recent weeks, it was a bit bittersweet to be a bronze medallist in the RBC Grand Prix of Canada, presented by Rolex, with by some distance the quickest time of 41.99 in the jump-off of just six combinations.One rub of a pole cost them first prize in the International Ring but it was still an excellent show once more from the deadly duo.The same day, Shane Sweetnam and Pia Maria H (Seabrook/Sweetnam) were fifth in a 1.50m jump-off class, while OConnor and Bertram Allen (were fourth and fifth in Sundays Grand Prix, riding Chatolinue PS and Qonquest De Rigo respectively.Billy Twomey left Sopot with the major pot on Sunday, partnering his own Ace of Hearts Z to glory in the four-star Grand Prix at the Polish venue.The duo (above) had provided the clear round as anchors, that secured a jump-off spot for Ireland in the Nations Cup a couple of days earlier, and with Alex Butler and Max Wachman also contributing significantly, it was left to Shane Breen and Scarteen to bring it home against the clock.On Sunday, Twomey and Ace of Hearts completed a memorable double. The technical course asked many questions, that for many, went unanswered but the Cork veteran and his ten-year-old stallion were well up to the task, posting two blemish-free rounds, the second in a time of 41.62 that was a second quicker than that recorded by runner-up, Roberto Previtali (ITA) with Quirinus 27.Eoin McMahon was a silver medallist in Sentower Parks four-star Grand Prix the same day. The Cratloe pilot and Disney Z (Baekgaarden Youngster) were agonisingly close in the Oakland Arena, but victory eluded him in Oudsbergen by two-tenths of a second.The pair jumped a brilliant double clear in the 1.60m class, and 42.58 earned them 21,100, with the overall honours going to Brazils Yuri Mansur, with Mister Jup (42.38).His fellow Clare native, Philip McGuane bagged a second international success in as many weeks, following up last weeks four-star triumph with a two-star victory in the 1.45m Welcome Takes at HITS Saugerties.The New Yorkers might have been anticipating the conclusion of a 53-year famine to become NBA champions but McGuane has been much more prolific of late and he guided Paso Doble SCF (Evergate Stables) to top spot thanks to a jump-off time of 40.29 in the Douglas Elliman GP Stadium on Friday night (above).She is a very good jumper, a clear round machine, said McGuane of the 11-year-old mare. I was just going for a nice, smooth, jump-off round with her. A lot of people had the skinny down, so I just made sure I jumped that well, and the rest turned great.Jordan Coyle made it a good week the Ardmore clan, as the elder sibling cantered to an easy success in the two-star Grand Prix in Peelbergen on Saturday, just a couple of days after Daniels 1-2 at Spruce Meadows..The US-based athlete enjoyed going Dutch with Cordiamo (Elan Farm) absolutely blitzing the opposition in the 1.45m jump-off in the Van Mossel Arena. A dozen combinations resumed for the tiebreaker but this was a one-sided affair, as Coyle and his 10-year-old set a time of 39.19 that was more than two and a half seconds quicker than the mark recorded by runners-up Enno Klaphake (GER) and Chacvarlon PS.Jordan Coyle and Cordiamo stand to attention as one of seven international class winners at two-star 1.45m and higher for the Irish last weekBREEDINGCLONTERM OBOLENSKY (ISH) 2016 stallion by Cornet Obolensky (BWP) out of She Has The Lux (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Brian Duff, Ashbourne, Co. Meath. Owner: Oliver Raymond Glancy. Rider: Conor Swail (IRL).The post Nallons sizzling St Tropez double appeared first on .

Maeve Deverell has been selected to represent Ireland at the 2026 FEI Dressage European Championship for Juniors next month at the Equine Sport Center Olomouc, Czech Republic.It will be a second European Championship appearance for the Offaly teenager, who competed in the Children on Horses European Championship for Ireland in 2023 with homebred 13-year-old Annaharvey Dunowen (ISH).She will again partner Annaharvey Dunowen, bred in Tullamore, Co. Offally by her grandfather Henry, having impressed this season with her consistent results, highlighted by a third-place finish at Hartpury.Horse Sport Ireland High Performance Dressage Manager, Anne Marie Dunphy, said: Im very pleased that Maeve will represent us in Olomouc. During the selection period they have shown consistent results including a podium finish at Hartpury CDI and we look forward to seeing them taking their place at the championships. I would like to thank all of the athletes, their parents and support teams involved in the High Performance Programme for their hard work and commitment, and to our official sponsors for their ongoing support.BREEDING: Annaharvey Dunowen (ISH) 2013 gelding by Radolin (KWPN) out of Who Dun It (ISH). Breeder: Henry Deverell. Owner: Sam Deverell. Rider: Maeve Deverell (IRL)The post Maeve Deverell selected to represent Ireland for second time at European Championship appeared first on .

BETA Level 3 Body Protector: Why Rider Safety Starts With Fit, Flexibility and ConfidenceQuick AnswerA BETA Level 3 body protector is designed to offer a high level of protection for horse riding, competitions, eventing and working with horses. The right body protector should sit securely, feel comfortable, allow natural movement and help protect the rider without restricting performance.The Premier Equine Action Flex Body Protector is engineered for riders who want trusted protection with a lightweight, flexible and flattering fit. Designed to move with the body, it combines BETA Level 3 certified protection, flexible sectioned panels, adjustable waist and shoulder fittings, breathable comfort and premium Premier Equine styling.Engineered to Protect, Designed For Movement.Safety Should Never Restrict PerformanceRiding demands trust, balance and quick reaction.Every rider knows that horses can move, turn, stop or spook before we have time to think. A moment can change quickly, whether you are schooling at home, jumping, hacking, competing or working around horses on the yard.That is why body protection matters.A good body protector should give the rider an added layer of safety without making them feel stiff, heavy or restricted. It should protect the torso, sit close to the body and allow the rider to move naturally in the saddle.Because safety equipment only works properly when riders feel confident wearing it.The Action Flex Body Protector has been developed around that exact need.Protection.Comfort.Movement.Confidence.What Does BETA Level 3 Mean?BETA Level 3 is recognised as the highest standard level commonly used for general horse riding, competitions, eventing and working with horses. BETA describes Level 3 as appropriate for general riding, competitions including eventing, and working with horses. It is intended to help reduce certain impact-related injuries, including minor bruising, soft tissue injuries and a limited number of rib fractures. The Premier Equine Action Flex Body Protector is BETA Level 3 certified, giving riders a trusted level of protection for a wide range of riding activities.It is important to be clear. No body protector can remove all risk from riding. Horses are powerful animals, and every discipline carries some level of risk.But good safety equipment helps riders prepare properly.And preparation gives confidence.Why This Matters NowRiders are becoming more aware of safety standards, correct fit and competition requirements.For example, British Eventing confirmed that from 1 January 2024, Level 3 body protectors used in British Eventing competition must meet the BETA 2018 standard. Riders should always check the current rules of their own governing body before competing. This means many riders are now reviewing older body protectors and asking the same questions:Is my body protector still suitable?Does it meet current standards?Does it fit correctly?Can I move properly in it?Would I actually want to wear it every day?The Action Flex Body Protector answers these needs with certified protection and a modern, flexible design made for real riding movement.Fit Is More Than ComfortA body protector should never feel loose, unstable or badly positioned.If it moves too much, it may not sit correctly when needed. If it is too tight, it can restrict breathing and movement. If it is too long, it may catch on the saddle. If it is too short, it may not offer the coverage expected.The right fit should feel:secure around the bodyclose without feeling restrictivecomfortable across the shouldersstable when ridingeasy to adjustflexible enough to move with youshaped enough to avoid unnecessary bulkThe Action Flex Body Protector features highly adjustable waist Velcro panels and shoulder straps, allowing riders to create a more precise fit.This matters because no two riders are built exactly the same. A body protector should work with the riders shape, not fight against it.Designed to Move With the RiderRiders do not sit still.They rise in trot.They fold over fences.They turn through the shoulder.They absorb movement through the seat and core.They adjust constantly to the horse underneath them.That is why flexibility is so important.The Action Flex Body Protector uses uniquely sectioned panels with flexible hinging, allowing it to contour naturally to the riders body. This helps create a close, comfortable fit while supporting freedom of movement.This is where the design becomes different.It is not only about protection.It is about wearable protection.A body protector that feels bulky or restrictive often ends up left in the tack room. A body protector that feels secure, flexible and comfortable becomes part of the riders routine.That is the point.Safety should feel natural enough to wear.Built for Impact. Made for Comfort.The Action Flex Body Protector uses advanced protective foams designed to provide high-impact protection while maintaining flexibility and comfort.This balance is key.Riders do not want safety equipment that looks smart but lacks substance. They also do not want protection that makes them ride stiffly or feel disconnected from the horse.The Action Flex brings both sides together:BETA Level 3 certified protectionHigh-impact foam technologyFlexible sectioned panel designAdjustable waist and shoulder fitBreathable comfortClose, flattering profilePremium Premier Equine brandingIt is built for riders who take safety seriously, but still expect comfort, style and performance.Who Should Wear a Body Protector?A body protector is particularly important for riders who take part in:eventingcross countryjumpinghackingschooling young horsesriding sharp or reactive horsestraining in open spacesyard work around unpredictable horsesreturning to riding after injury or time awaycompetitions where a body protector is requiredBut it is not only for competition riders.A fall can happen at home.A horse can spook on a hack.A jump session can change in one stride.A young horse can react without warning.A kick or knock can happen on the yard.Wearing a body protector is not about riding with fear.It is about riding prepared.Is a Body Protector Only for Eventing?No.Body protectors are strongly linked with eventing and cross country, but they are useful across many areas of horse riding.For some riders, it is part of competition preparation.For others, it is part of everyday safety.For many, it gives reassurance when riding a new, young, sharp or unpredictable horse.The Action Flex Body Protector has been designed for riders across disciplines. It gives protection without taking away the freedom of movement needed for confident riding.The Confidence to Ride ProperlyWhen safety equipment fits badly, it affects the rider.It can make the upper body stiff.It can restrict the fold over a fence.It can feel hot, heavy or distracting.It can stop the rider feeling connected.That is why comfort is not a luxury. It is part of performance.A rider who feels comfortable can focus on the horse.A rider who feels protected can ride with more confidence.A rider who can move freely can perform more naturally.The Action Flex Body Protector has been engineered to support that feeling.Secure enough to protect.Flexible enough to move.Comfortable enough to wear.What Makes the Action Flex Body Protector Different?The Premier Equine Action Flex Body Protector has been designed around one clear idea:Engineered to Protect, Designed For Movement.It offers the high level of protection riders expect, with the comfort and flexibility modern riders need.Key FeaturesBETA Level 3 CertifiedDesigned to meet a recognised safety standard for horse riding, competitions and working with horses.Flexible Sectioned PanelsThe body protector is shaped with uniquely sectioned panels and flexible hinging to help it contour naturally to the riders body.High-Impact ProtectionAdvanced foams are used to help absorb impact while maintaining flexibility and comfort.Adjustable Waist and Shoulder FitVelcro waist panels and shoulder straps allow riders to refine the fit for improved security and comfort.Breathable ComfortDesigned to support comfort during schooling, competition, hacking and everyday riding.Flattering ProfileA close, shaped fit helps reduce the bulky feel often associated with traditional body protectors.Premium Premier Equine FinishClean technical styling, finished with distinctive Premier Equine branding.How Should a Body Protector Fit?A body protector should feel close, stable and secure.When trying one on, check that:the shoulder straps sit flatthe waist panels fasten securelythe body protector does not twist or liftthe front does not press into the neckthe back does not catch on the saddleyou can breathe comfortablyyou can fold forward into a riding positionyou can move naturally through the shoulders and torsoCorrect fit is essential. Always check the product size guide before purchasing and choose the size that gives the safest, most secure fit.A body protector should feel protective, not restrictive.Body Protector vs Air JacketA body protector and an air jacket are not the same thing.A body protector gives passive protection. It is worn close to the body and does not need to activate.An air jacket is designed to inflate when triggered during a fall.Many riders choose to wear both, depending on their discipline, level and competition rules.British Riding Clubs current 2026 body protector guidance states that where a body protector is mandatory, air jackets are permitted but must be worn over a permitted Level 3 body protector. Riders should always check the latest rules for their own discipline or governing body before competing.For any competition, always check the latest rules before riding.When Should You Replace a Body Protector?Body protectors do not last forever.You should consider replacing yours if:it has been involved in a heavy fallthe foam feels compressed or damagedthe outer fabric is torn or wornit no longer fits correctlyit feels loose or unstableit no longer meets current competition requirementsit is uncomfortable enough that you avoid wearing itSafety equipment should give confidence. If your current body protector does not feel right, it may be time to upgrade.Why Riders Choose Action FlexThe Action Flex Body Protector is made for riders who want protection they can trust and comfort they can actually ride in.It is suitable for riders who want:a BETA Level 3 certified body protectorflexible movement in the saddlea secure adjustable fitlightweight comforthigh-impact protectiona flattering shapea smart, professional finishprotection for training, competition and everyday ridingIt is built for real riders, real movement and real confidence.Final ThoughtRiding will always carry risk. That is part of working with horses.But good safety equipment helps riders make better choices. It helps them prepare properly. It gives reassurance without taking away performance.The Premier Equine Action Flex Body Protector has been engineered for riders who demand serious protection, but still expect comfort, movement and style.It is protective.It is flexible.It is wearable.It is made for riders who want to feel ready.Engineered to Protect, Designed For Movement.Shop the Action Flex Body ProtectorDiscover the Action Flex Body Protector Black, designed with BETA Level 3 certified protection, flexible sectioned panels, adjustable waist and shoulder straps, breathable comfort and premium Premier Equine styling.Ride protected. Move freely.Shop Action Flex Body ProtectorFAQWhat is a BETA Level 3 body protector?A BETA Level 3 body protector is designed to offer a high level of protection for horse riding, competitions, eventing and working with horses. It is a recognised standard riders can look for when choosing protective riding equipment.Is a body protector required for eventing?Body protectors are commonly required for eventing and cross country. Riders should always check the latest rules from their own governing body before competing.Can I wear a body protector for everyday riding?Yes. Many riders wear body protectors for hacking, schooling, jumping, young horses, sharp horses and yard work. It can provide added protection and reassurance during everyday riding.How should a horse riding body protector fit?It should sit close to the body, fasten securely and allow natural breathing and movement. It should not twist, lift, gap or catch on the saddle.Is the Action Flex Body Protector suitable for different disciplines?Yes. The Action Flex Body Protector is designed for riders across disciplines, including schooling, hacking, jumping, eventing and competition use.Why is flexibility important in a body protector?Flexibility helps the rider move naturally. A body protector should support protection without making the rider feel stiff or restricted.Can a body protector prevent all injuries?No. No body protector can prevent every injury. A certified body protector can help reduce the severity of certain impact injuries, but riding always carries risk.When should I replace my body protector?You should replace your body protector if it has been damaged, involved in a heavy fall, no longer fits properly, feels unstable or does not meet the safety standard required for your riding or competition use.Can I wear an air jacket with a body protector?Yes, many riders wear both. Always check the current rules for your discipline or governing body, especially where body protectors are mandatory.What makes the Action Flex Body Protector different?The Action Flex Body Protector combines BETA Level 3 certified protection with flexible sectioned panels, adjustable fitting, breathable comfort and a close, flattering profile designed for movement.

The countdown to the FEI Jumping Youth European Championships has now begun in earnest after a very successful week at the Future Champions show in Hagen, Germany that concluded at the weekend.Irelands youth athletes returned from Hagen with a hat-trick of podium finishes as well as individual standout performances, much to the delight of Horse Sport Ireland High Performance Youth Jumping Manager Denis Flannelly.Flannelly oversaw three team podium finishes, which included a remarkable comeback for the Young Rider team to finish third, and a pair of silver medals for the Pony and Children on Horses teams. This was the final shown in a series of competitions that will help inform Flannelly and his selection committee choose the combinations and squads at the two championships that will take place in Hagen, Germany that commence on July 19th and run for the week, then Le Mans, France the following week.He said: It has been an excellent campaign to date, with many podium finishes in Nations Cups across all of the age categories. We have competed at Sentower, Compiegne, Zuidwolde and at the weekend in Hagen.It is very important to give these young athletes the opportunity to experience being part of a team and to perform in the Cup format. They need to experience what its like to be a team member and play their part on that team as well as dealing with the associated pressure and of course feel the camaraderie that only a Nations Cup can give. There is no better way to prepare for the European Championships, which is the ultimate Nations Cup, than fielding teams in the FEI European Nations Cup Series.Weve had many amazing results over the course of the series to date a lot of which has come from new combinations and young athletes competing for their country for the very first time. We have been very pleased with the progress made over the last number of months.As Flannelly says, there is no substitute for the pressure that Nations Cup format jumping brings and while the Irish squads had an incredibly successful 2025, he was keen for new combinations to stake a claim to be part of the championships in Hagen next month.Obviously last summer was incredible, adds Flannely. We came home with numerous medals in various categories and our young athletes developed greatly from being part of the championships.Within the programme, one of our main goals is to develop a pathway to the senior level of our sport. We must always be looking forward and continue to strive for great things year-on-year.Our Horse Sport Ireland Youth Jumping Programme gives athletes the opportunity to develop and compete at the highest level amongst their peers in Europe, and so many of these athletes have gone on to the top of our sport.Because of the fact our youth athletes have had the experience of competing at various Nations Cup shows around Europe, the step up to senior level showjumping becomes easier.That is something we must always remain focused on.Looking back at Hagen last weekend, Flannelly was particularly pleased with the character shown by Irelands young athletes. To give an example, Irelands Young Rider team looked very much out of contention for a medal at the halfway point in their Nations Cup after finishing round one on a score of 26 faults yet recovered to finish in third place on a final tally of 27, with just one time fault picked up in round two.Flannellys philosophy of meeting as a team before, during and after competing bore fruit.Flannelly adds: That took guts and character, as well as the talent all four riders obviously have in the saddle. They would have been forgiven for going through the motions at that stage of the competition, licked their wounds and come back to fight another day but they were having none of that and it was so impressive to see.Obviously our Pony and Children on Horses teams were also brilliant. Both teams are the youngest Irish international athletes competing and both performed admirably to finish on the podium in the silver medal position.The conditioning of young people at that level to deal with the pressures associated will serve them well as they develop and continue through the programme into Junior and Young Rider categories.This is all part of the pathway to senior level. We are so proud of all our athletes who competed in Hagen and through the Nations Cup Series. Now we enthusiastically look forward to the challenges that lay ahead at the Europeans in July.The post All roads lead to the Europeans after Irish Youths impress at Future Champions Nations Cup show in Hagen appeared first on .

The future of the Dartmoor Hill Pony is at risk according to campaigners, who say new rules could lead to up to 90% of the population being lost.Under proposed new grazing contracts, livestock numbers are drastically reduced and ponies will be included alongside other animals in the overall count.Campaigners fear commoners will be forced to remove their ponies to maximise the number of more commercially viable animals. More than 130,000 people have signed a petition against the new contracts, which could come into force by the end of 2026. The Friends of the Dartmoor Hill Pony (FDHP) said the change is likely to result in a cull to ensure the stock numbers are correct, and up to 90% of the ponies could be lost.They said the ponies were at risk of losing their place on the moor and ultimately becoming extinct.On 2 September, the FDHP will be delivering their petition to Downing Street, accompanied by some of the ponies they are working to protect.A Defra spokesman told Your Horse it recognises the value of the biodiversity embodied by the Dartmoor Hill Pony.In line with the Independent Review of Protected Site Management on Dartmoor, we are working with partners, to help ensure that we maintain numbers of semi-wild ponies on the Moor for generations to come, they said.Lead image of Dartmoor Hill Ponies. Credit: ShutterstockMore from Your HorseOur pick of fly masks and veils for horsesIs your horse is uncomfortable in his bit? Signs he is unhappy and how to solve itHow hacking can improve your competition performanceThe post Dartmoor Hill Ponies at risk: Petition gains traction as ponies prepare for Downing Street delivery appeared first on Your Horse.

The equine gastrointestinal microbiome consists of a diverse community of microorganisms throughout the horses digestive tract that work together to support digestion, health, and behavior. When that system stays in balance, everything typically runs smoothly, and the horse might appear healthy. When it becomes unbalanced, the horse can develop a variety of illnesses. Read on to better understand the horses GI microbiome and how you can help keep it (and, in effect, your entire horse) healthy.Where Do Microbes Work?Foregut (stomach and small intestine) Digest starches, simple sugars, fats, and proteinsMicrobe imbalances can cause equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS)Hindgut (cecum and large intestine) Ferment complex fibers such as cellulose and hemicelluloseSupply more than 50% of daily energyMicrobiome BalanceA horses GI microbial balance varies due to:Diet and forage qualitySeasonal changesAgeStress and managementDisease and antibiotics (antibiotics can disrupt both harmful and beneficial microbes)What is the Horses Microbiome-Gut-Brain Axis?This bidirectional communication network connects the horses digestive health with mood, behavior, and cognitive functions. High- starch diets can disturb the microbial balance, which might show as:ReactivityNervousnessAggressionIf the gut microbiome becomes imbalanced the horse could show the following signs:Gastric ulcersDiarrheaColic/colitis (abdominal pain or inflammation of the large or small colon, respectively)Laminitis (inflammation of the tissue that suspends the coffin bone within the hoof)Reduced immune functionSupporting a Healthy Gut MicrobiomeAdjusting the horses environment and management strategies can help balance the gut microbiome and keep it balanced. This includes several factors:NutritionEmphasize forage and fiber in the dietMake dietary changes gradually over about two weeksSupplementsPrebioticsProbioticsPostbioticsManagementReduce the horses stressProvide plenty of turnout and pasture timeMonitor the horses feed intake and subsequent behavior changesTake-Home MessageHealthy gut microbes support the horses digestion, behavior, and overall health. To help keep the horses microbiome in balance, avoid rapid diet changes, manage stress where you can, watch for early signs somethings off, and contact your veterinarian if you see any problems.