08/24/2025
๐ Benefits of Proprioception Exercises for Horses ๐
- Improved Joint Stability
โข Helps strengthen their stabilizing muscles.
โข Supports ligaments & tendons, reducing the risk of injury or re-injury.
- Enhanced Body Awareness
โข Helps re-establish the pathways that tell them where their feet & limbs are in space.
โข Improves coordination, balance, & responsiveness under saddle or in-hand.
โข Reduces clumsiness & tripping.
- Improved Performance & Movement Efficiency
โข Improves stride accuracy, balance, & rhythm.
โข Leads to more controlled gaits & smoother transitions.
โข Supports collection & self-carriage.
- Injury Prevention & Rehabilitation
โข Retrains neuromuscular pathways after injury.
โข Builds protective strength & control during recovery.
โข Improves load distribution, reducing compensatory strain.
- Core & Postural Strength
โข Engages the horseโs core muscles.
โข Improves spinal alignment & posture.
โข Reduces undue stress on the back, which supports both horse & rider.
- Confidence & Mental Engagement
โข Exercises (like poles or balance pads) stimulate the brain.
โข Horses become more confident navigating new environments.
โข Reduces anxiety, helps focus, & strengthens horse-human trust.
- Longevity & Soundness
โข Keeps horses mobile & safer from falls.
โข Supports soundness & comfort in horses with degenerative joint conditions.
- Examples of Equine proprioception exercises:
โข Pole Work (raised or ground poles, fan layouts, varied spacing).
โข Cavaletti at walk/trot for stride awareness.
โข Balance pads for improving stabilization & re-establishing proprioception.
โข Backing up in-hand for core & proprioceptive activation.
โข Uneven terrain (walking over hills, gravel, sand, shallow water).
โข Gentle body rock exercises to stimulate balance reflexes.
*Just like with any modality or exercise, there are contraindications for certain conditions. This is why it's so important to consult with your bodyworker & veterinarian to make sure your horse is a good candidate for any exercises that you are wanting to add to your horse's regimen.*
๐งก A little proprioceptive training goes a long way toward a sound, confident, and happy horse.