Stretching involves a deliberate and controlled approach to elongating a horse’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments to enhance flexibility, range of motion, and overall well-being. Similar to how humans engage in stretching exercises, equine stretching aims to improve the horse’s physical condition, prevent injuries, and optimize their performance. Different stretching techniques can be applied to various parts of the horse’s body.
Common areas targeted for equine stretching include the neck, back, shoulders, hips, and legs. Some horses may benefit from specific stretches tailored to their needs, such as those focusing on injury rehabilitation or improving gait asymmetries.
Benefits
- Aids in relaxing muscles
- Increasing range of motion, circulation and oxygenation
- Increasing elasticity of muscles, tendons and ligaments
- Improves proprioception (aweareness of body)
When to stretch
- ALWAYS when the horse’s tissue is warmed up
- NEVER when a horse was in a stable or inactive, it could damage the tissue
Rules
- Go very slowly and do not force the stretch – it might lead to injury of tissue
- Always follow horse’s ability
- Start on 5 seconds and gradually build up to 15 seconds
- Assist the horse and guide him
Ready to enhance your horse’s well-being and performance?
Reach out to me today and let’s discuss how we can enhance your horse’s vitality and performance. Whether it’s for relaxation, injury recovery, or overall balance, I’m here to help. Get in touch now to embark on a transformative journey toward equine wellness and harmony.
