What is the effect of a horse being overworked?

When a horse is overworked, the primary effect is an increased risk of injury along with decreased performance. Overworking a horse can lead to fatigue, muscle strains, and other physical injuries due to inadequate recovery time. Horses that are pushed beyond their physical limits tend to suffer from exhaustion and can develop chronic issues if not given sufficient rest. This situation hampers their overall performance and can make them less responsive to training, ultimately affecting their conditioning and ability to engage effectively in riding or competition.

Moreover, mental fatigue can also occur, leading to stress and behavioral issues, which further detracts from their performance. It is essential to strike a balance in a horse's training regimen, ensuring they have enough rest and recovery periods to maintain their physical health and enhance their performance capabilities.