What type of work are horses with mostly slow-twitch fibers best suited for?

Horses with mostly slow-twitch muscle fibers are best suited for long-distance work requiring endurance. Slow-twitch fibers are designed for prolonged activity and rely primarily on aerobic metabolism, making them efficient for activities that demand stamina over extended periods, such as trail riding, endurance competitions, and other activities where maintaining a steady pace is essential.

These fibers are more resistant to fatigue compared to fast-twitch fibers, which are geared towards quick, explosive movements but tire more easily. In endurance work, the horse maintains a consistent speed over a long duration, utilizing the oxygen-rich fuel that slow-twitch fibers effectively convert into energy. This enhances their ability to sustain activities that last for hours, making them ideal for events that require endurance rather than short, high-intensity efforts.