03/12/2025
๐ด Posture-Boosting Exercises for Horses
๐ฅ Carrot stretches
- Encourage lateral flexion, rounding through the topline and core engagement.
- Focus on chin-to-chest, chin-to-girth, and done slowly and correctly.
๐ Raised pole work
- Encourages the horse to lift through the back, activate the core, and step through with the hind end.
- Start with walk poles, then build to trot when posture improves.
๐ถ๐ฝโโ๏ธHill Work (in hand or ridden)
- Strengthens hindquarters and lumbar region, improving self-carriage and stability.
- Both uphill and controlled downhill work are beneficial.
๐คธโโ๏ธ Long and low work
- Allows the horse to stretch through the neck and lift the back instead of hollowing.
- Aim for relaxation, rhythm, and softness โ not just a lowered head.
๐ช๐ผ Back lifts & belly-raising activations
- Gentle pressure along the sternum or midline encourages the horse to lift through the core.
- Great for horses who tend to drop the back or disengage the hind end.
๐ฟ Owner Tips for Maintaining Good Posture
- Check saddle fit regularly โ poor fit can create tension and postural changes.
- Keep up with consistent massage or soft tissue work to prevent tightness building up.
- Warm up slowly; allow the horse time to stretch and mobilise before collecting.
- Vary their workload โ too much of one discipline can create imbalance.
- Ensure turnout and free movement; static stable time can stiffen muscles.
- Watch for subtle signs: uneven muscle development, toe-dragging, hollowing, reluctance to bend.
- Build strength gradually โ posture comes from muscle development, not force.
๐ง Remember
- Good posture isnโt just about how a horse stands โ it reflects balance, comfort, strength, and correct muscle use.
- Regular movement, thoughtful exercise, and preventative massage help keep the body supple, aligned, and supported long-term.
