Growth plates are one of the most important parts of the growing horse's skeleton. They are the reason a foal’s legs lengthen, the reason young horses change shape as they mature, and one of the reasons training decisions must be matched to age, development, and individual condition. Learn everything a horse owner should know about growth plates here.

Some horses mature quickly, others take more time, and most fall somewhere in between. Learn how to assess your horse's physical and mental preparedness for work.