Horse Track Systems

It is a concept initially born from hoofcare professional Jaime Jackson known as ‘Paddock Paradise’. It is now commonly referred to by many as ‘Horse Track Systems’. In simple terms, it is a system of tracks that horses live within as a herd. 

It is an innovative way of keeping horses that when done well, mimics their natural movement patterns in the wild. Instead of being confined in stables or small paddocks, horses live on a looped track that encourages almost constant movement, social interaction, and environmental enrichment. The track is designed to provide varied terrain, a variety of forage stations, water points, and natural obstacles, keeping horses physically and mentally engaged throughout the day. The original concept of Paddock Paradise systems was developed and championed by Jaime Jackson, a hoof care specialist from the US in the early 2000s. Jaime Jackson and Jill Willis still invest time educating on track systems and barefoot hoof care. Since the early 2000s, it has gained popularity and become more accessible for people around the world.

The term ‘Horse Track System’ was coined mainly by our group in the UK based around the Horse Track System Facebook page started in 2007. This group now has around 100k members and the terminology is now recognised internationally amongst other, more colloquial names such as Paradise Track, Track Paddock, Natural Track and Active Stall (an offshoot from the Activstall system from the company HIT).

Why Use a Track System?

1. Encourages Natural Movement
   Horses in the wild travel many miles daily in search of food, water and places to rest. Traditional horse-keeping methods greatly limit this movement, leading to many of the disorders and behavioural issues that plague our modern-day horses. A track system promotes near-constant low-impact exercise, benefiting joint health, circulation, gut health and overall fitness. Being able to fulfil this movement quota also means that horses don’t develop behavioural or stereotypical issues linked to stress and boredom. 

2. Improves Hoof Health
   A well-designed track system incorporates varied surfaces such as rock, sand, and gravel, which naturally condition hooves, reducing the need for intervention like shoeing or short trimming cycles. Excessive stable time and a lack of movement can lead to thrush and poor-quality hoof horn which are prone to structural breakdown. Track systems have been widely used to rehabilitate horses with hoof issues.

3. Supports Digestive Health
   Horses are designed to graze almost continuously, but modern management often disrupts this with restricted feeding schedules. A track system encourages slow, steady grazing by spacing out forage stations, preventing common issues like ulcers. The movement achieved on a track system also helps gut motility which means, along with providing a stable supply of forage, reduces instances of colic. 

4. Promotes Mental Wellbeing
   Horses thrive on social interaction and environmental stimulation. Living on a track system allows them to engage in natural herd behaviours, reducing stress, boredom, and anxiety. The varied terrain and enrichment opportunities keep their minds engaged.

5. Reduces Paddock Damage and Mud
   A traditional pasture setup often results in overgrazed, poached and compacted fields, especially in wetter months. A track system helps preserve the central grazing area, while designated pathways minimize damage, creating a more sustainable way to manage land. Some people decide to use their tracks all year round. In these cases the old grazing areas can be utilised as hay. Others may use grazing only at certain times of year as standing hay which is generally a safer option for those who suffer with metabolic disorders. Either way, when land isn’t poached and compacted it is much healthier and will produce healthier forage.

6. More Aligned with Equine Welfare
   The track system offers a lifestyle closer to what horses are naturally adapted for; constant movement, social living, and a fibre-based diet. By meeting these needs, horses are physically and mentally healthier, and easier to manage and train. Whether you’re looking to improve your horse’s health, manage behavioural issues, or create a more natural and enriching lifestyle, a track system provides a practical and welfare-focused solution.