NHT Magazine Spring 2018

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Posture and Musculoskeletal Health by Gillian Higgins 1. Positioning of the Hind Legs Posture is key to musculoskeletal health. Like humans different horses suffer from problems as a result of poor posture. There are many different postural variations, but the most common poor postural position of the horse’s back is extension or hollowing. This poor postural position is further exacerbated by carrying additional weight. As soon as we sit on our horse we compromise his posture, balance and movement. There are many ways we, as personal trainers, can encourage good posture and support the weight of the rider. At the seminar in September we will be looking at these in details. However here are 3 of the most important:- 3. Perform core strengthening exercises with your horse every day Core muscles of the horse The further the hind legs come under the body the better the back is supported. Engagement from behind and impulsion therefore is vital for good posture. It is important even when hacking to ensure the horse is walking purposefully and engaging his hindquarters. 2. Positioning of the Head and Neck This is a mechanical reaction influenced by the spinal ligament system. There are many different ways to stimulate the core muscles. This is an exercise taken from Pilates and Stretching for horses available from www.HorsesInsideOut.com Backing Up You can see in these two photographs when the head is down, the back is up and when the head is up the back is hollow and unsupported. This explains why it is so important to feed our horses off the floor and the benefits of work in a ‘long and low’ outline. HORSES INSIDE OUT DAY SEMINAR FOR RIDERS AND COACHES GET THE BEST FOR YOUR HORSE PRACTICAL TIPS EXERCISES AND TECHNIQUES This is one of my favourite exercises. I think that all ridden horses will benefit from performing it on a daily basis. It is a superb for mobilising the back, lumbosacral and sacroiliac areas. It helps to strengthen the core muscles and those involved in supporting good posture, carrying the weight of the rider, carrying more weight behind and hind limb engagement. In many ways it is like collection in reverse! I have found that it is best to do this exercise in-hand rather than ridden. It can be performed just before you ride, just after you have finished your riding session or on the way to or from the field. Find a way of fitting it into your daily routine. For example pick a spot that you lead your horse past everyday and from now on always go in reverse! How much? Build up to 10 quality steps in succession and repeat 4 -5 times per day. Be patient! Give your horse time to learn the exercise. He may find it difficult at first or may not understand what you are asking of him, but once he has got the idea, through daily repetition you will see improvements. Ultimately he should be able to go backwards with long marching clean steps in a straight line, with his head down in a good outline, back slightly raised and rounded. LED BY GILLIAN HIGGINS 10am – 6pm Saturday 29 th September <strong>2018</strong> Moulton College Equestrian Centre, Northampton WWW.HORSESINSIDEOUT.COM After 3 weeks you may start to see a difference in his posture and core strength. Keep going and you should see an improvement in his posture regardless of the discipline. This is just one of many exercises which can benefit posture and musculoskeletal health. If you wish to learn more about how your horse works and practical tips and exercises to improve posture and performance come along to the Horses Inside Out Seminar for Coaches and Riders in September. We look forward to seeing you there. WWW.HORSESINSIDEOUT.COM 29
Bletsoe Brown Country Store Suppliers of All Animal Feeds, Bedding, Healthcare & Accessories ALL MAJOR BRANDS STOCKED If we don't stock it, we can still get it! We are a family run business located in Sywell, Northampton. We stock a wide range of animal feeds & bedding as well as all things equestrian. We can also sharpen clipper blades on-site. Delivery Service Available Visit Our Country Store Open 7 Days A Week Home Farm, Sywell, Northampton, NN6 0BQ sales@bletsoebrownltd.co.uk. 01604 492 956 Breaking & Schooling An accomplished local rider with many years experience, I have produced horses from ride and drive, competition ponies, hunters to Eventers. Based in Ringstead, Northamptonshire, I am able to offer a variety of services: Linda Green Experienced Experienced Fully Qualified Fully Qualified & Insured Equine Sports Massage £35.00 Per Session 07533 845872 Discounts for multiple bookings There may be a mileage charge depending on area - please ask www.equinesportsmassage.info 30
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NHT Magazine Spring 2018

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