10/10/2025
A horse carries 58% of their body weight over their front legs supported by muscles, tendons and ligaments. The horse’s thoracic sling is a group of muscles that suspend the ribcage between the front legs, since horses don’t have a collarbone. Key muscles include the serratus ventralis, pectorals, and trapezius, which support the forehand and absorb shock during movement. Keeping a horse’s thoracic sling strong and supple is important because it supports good posture, balance, and shock absorption—helping prevent strain, improve movement, and reduce the risk of injury, especially in performance horses.
