And that poses a problem for cattle. Offensive and defensive linemen are large, some are very large, with lots of bulk and muscle. Wide receivers are taller, leaner, less muscular and faster. Their body conformation relates to the task they do. The same is true of horses.
Some horses are tall, long, angular and lighter muscled.
Others are shorter, heavier muscled and not as tall. Each conformation type is designed for a specific type of athletic ability. Tall, long and lighter muscled horses are usually long-distance racers, endurance and gaited horses. Smaller, shorter and heavier muscled horses are short distance racers and quick-action horses used for cutting, roping and ranch work. Conformation is important in all horses from the trail horse ridden occasionally to the top performers in every show event.