Dear Lykkers, welcome to this insightful guide about foals and the important milestones that indicate when they’re ready to carry a rider. The journey from foal to fully grown horse is fascinating and full of considerations, especially when it comes to training and riding.

Let's break down everything you need to know in a friendly, easy-to-understand way.

When Can a Foal Start Being Ridden?

A common question is at what age a foal should start being ridden. Some believe that at 2 years old, a foal is ready for a rider, while others think that 3 years is a better age. So, what is the correct answer?

Scientifically, the readiness of a foal to carry weight is determined by its skeletal development. As foals grow, their cartilage turns into bony framework in a process called ossification. It’s only after this process is completed that a foal is physically capable of carrying weight without risking harm. The ossification begins from the hooves and gradually moves upwards, with the back and neck being the last to complete the process. This can take anywhere from 5 to 6 years, or in some cases, even up to 7 or 8 years for certain breeds.

Skeletal Growth and Ossification

The ossification process is crucial to a foal’s ability to carry weight. It starts in the hooves and works its way up the legs and spine. The back and neck are the last parts of the body to ossify. This means that even though foals grow quickly, they are not physically prepared to carry a rider as soon as they appear to be fully grown.

For example, imagine a foal weighing 400 kg carrying an additional 80 kg on its back. This would be like a person carrying eight 2-liter water bottles while jogging or running. The foal’s body is not yet fully prepared to handle this additional stress, which could cause serious injuries if it happens too early.

Physical Risks of Premature Riding

Potential Physical Damages

It is commonly believed that the legs are the most vulnerable part of a foal’s body when it comes to premature riding. However, the biggest risks actually lie in the back and neck, as these areas are the last to finish ossification.

Care must be taken to avoid overexerting these parts, as they are especially susceptible to damage during early riding.

Straining the neck, such as by tying the foal too tightly or making it carry weight prematurely, can lead to serious injuries. These injuries may not always be immediately visible but could lead to long-term issues in the foal’s development.

Psychological Consequences

Besides physical damage, there are also psychological concerns. When a foal is ridden before it is physically ready, it often reacts by stiffening its back muscles to compensate for the added weight.

This physical reaction can result in a learned behavior that can persist throughout the horse’s life, leading to difficulties in relaxation and overall discomfort. This can have long-term impacts on the horse's mental well-being, affecting its ability to function under saddle.

When to Start Training a Foal

Even though it’s important to wait for the foal’s physical growth to complete, training can begin long before the horse is ready for riding. Interaction with the foal should start from birth, focusing on building trust and a positive relationship with humans. By the time the foal is around 2 years old, it can begin to get comfortable with various training tools and equipment through ground training.

At around 4 years old, the foal may be ready for short riding sessions, where it learns basic maneuvers. By 5 or 6 years old, most foals have completed their growth process and are ready for more intensive training. At this point, they can handle longer riding sessions and begin learning advanced skills under the saddle.

Alternatives to Riding Early On

It’s important to remember that there are plenty of enjoyable activities that do not involve riding a foal. These activities can help establish a healthy, enjoyable, and secure bond with the foal. Simple exercises such as groundwork, leading, and natural horsemanship activities can be incredibly beneficial in building a strong foundation for future riding.

To Conclude

In conclusion, patience is key when it comes to foal training. Understanding the developmental stages and waiting until the foal’s bones are fully developed ensures its physical and mental health.

Training can begin early, but riding should wait until the foal is physically and emotionally prepared. By fostering a strong bond through groundwork and trust-building exercises, the foal will grow into a capable and confident horse ready for a future with a rider.