CMR Equine Bodyworker

Tuesday tip

Backing up is a low-impact exercise with no moment of suspension. It can be done in-hand and ridden. You horse should move his limbs in diagonal pairs.

Performed well, it requires your horse to carry more weight on his hindquarters, and maintain increased hindlimb, lumbosacral and back joint flexion throughout the stride cycle.

Executed correctly with relaxation, impulsion and with the head lowered, the movement increases the throacic vertebral rotation, encourages core recruitment of the abdominals , thoracic sling and hip flexors. It also contributes to back mobility, the ability to collect and good posture.

For maximum benefit ask your horse to back up in-hand daily. Start with 1 or 2 steps and progress to 20 steps. The aim is good quality, long, marching steps.

After what seems like a long break away from horses since finishing my degree, I finally spent the weekend surrounded by four legs 🐎!

I traveled up to sparsholt to see this lovely mare Dakota! On the Saturday she did a few rounds of showjumping and on the Sunday I treated her😁

A massive thank you to for letting me watch this pair in action (swipe to see!) and for allowing me to massage Dakota as the practice was needed!

**NEW RESEARCH REVIEW PUBLISHED**

TACK FIT AND USE

HILARY CLAYTON AND RUSSELL MACKECHNIE-GUIRE

Published in Vet Clinic Equine - Open Access (via Desktop/Laptop) with download available for 50 days https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/authors.elsevier.com/a/1fvdP2gKTT20QH__;!!HXCxUKc!15LmgTbfMUneKZ99pxDTGfzTSvZwyPBLK3qOzjaZMl04tMhzxBhcRgaXo4saHcTtg8yFGco0verIY0cWOgn-nwv6-A$

This short manuscript gives an overview of tack fit and use including the saddle, half pads, bridles and bits. This will also be published as a chapter in a new book out early 2023.

Just starting a feel a bit chilly now!

These stretches are ideal for the stable after exercise or after turn out to keep your friend supple and happy! 😀

On Friday I graduated Writtle University College with a 2:1 in BSc (hons) Equine Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

In June I also passed a course by Equinology in Equine Bodywork which included a 6 month externship

I am now in the process of setting up my own Equine BodyWorker business which will provide:
- Equine bodywork
- Stretches
- Rehabilitation programmes
- Ground work/lungeing and pole work exercises
- and many more to come!!

Keep an eye out for updates!