3 Horse Stretches for Safety and Performance

Easy Horse Stretches and Stretching Tips and Techniques

Before any strenuous activity, we are taught to warm-up and stretch. It will not only make our performance better but it also prevents us from injury. When we stretch, the muscles are loose and ready for action. The neuromuscular aspect of the body is prepared and in effect, we execute movements much more fluidly and we tire less easily.

The effects of horse stretching is no different. Horses, being muscular animals and built for exertion, require the same type of stretching for optimum neuromuscular condition so they won’t get injured unnecessarily. Horses need flexibility and long range of motion to perform effectively.

This article should help you immensely with unique horse stretching tips. Keep in mind that before stretching your horses, they must be warmed up with 10-15 minutes of exercise. Never stretch the horse when the muscles are cold and stiff. Instead of preventing injuries, failing to warm-up before stretching could become the cause of injuries.

The “warm up”, just like the name suggests, warms up muscles and prepares the nervous system. It also loosens the tendons and ligaments.

Here are three essential horse stretches that you can do:

Horse Stretches: Leg Stretches Horses are prized for their movement, particularly, the power and endurance of their legs. In essence, horses exert most of their efforts through the legs. Therefore, it is vital that the horse’s leg mobility is of optimal condition.

Leg muscles should be ready to spring into action without getting injured. Make sure you are completely aware of any idiosyncrasies your animal may have before working with the feet etc.

There are actually two types of leg stretches to consider – the triceps stretch and the hamstring stretch. Basically, triceps stretches are done to the forelegs and the hamstring stretches are for the hind legs. Triceps Stretches are done by facing the back of the horse and proceed as if picking up the hoof of one of the forelegs. Actually, you will be picking up the limb and let the limb hang loose on a 90 degree angle while supporting under and above the knee. Bring it up until you feel the resistance and hold the stretch position for 5 to 10 seconds. You can then bring the limb forward and hold.

The hamstring stretch is also done facing the back of the horse. Reach for a hind leg and extend a leg forward with your hands on the fetlock and the tip of the hoof. Gently pull the leg forward and stop until you feel the resistance. Hold the position for 5 to 10 seconds.

Horse Stretches: The Reflex or Back Raise Stretch Rub the horse’s abdomen in circular motion and always be aware of the animal’s reaction as some horses are just too sensitive and may react unfavorably. If the horse is fine with your rubbing, stiffen your fingers into a claw and rake the abdomen from side to side with increasing pressure and speed. As a result, the horse will contract his abdomen consequently raising his back and straightening the spine.

Horse Stretches: Lead Rope Stretches for the Neck A lead rope is used to make the horse turn his head, therefore stretching his neck. The lead rope is placed in strategic positions. There are essentially two types of lead rope stretches. The first one is standing with your rump against the horse’s side. Try to gently guide the horse’s head to touch your elbow with his nose, or pull the tail to touch his nose. Do this on each side.

The other is pulling the lead rope in between the horse’s front legs from behind. Try & make the horse touch his chin to his chest. Only stretch to the horse’s comfort level.

Things to Remember With Horse Stretches:  Some of these sensations, if not all, are new to the animal. So it is imperative to be gentle and sensitive of the horse’s reactions. If the horse cannot stretch further, stop. Overtime, your horse will gain the flexibility and strength.

 

Do you want to learn how to stretch your horse?