Tailored Equine Fitness & Rehabilitation Plans
Every horse is different, and their exercise programme should reflect that. Age, current fitness, workload, discipline, previous injuries, movement patterns and individual strengths and weaknesses can all influence how a horse should be conditioned.
I offer individual equine fitness and rehabilitation plans, designed around you and your horse rather than following a generic exercise programme. Using my knowledge of equine anatomy, biomechanics and whole-body function as an equine osteopath, I can consider how your horse moves and uses their body when selecting appropriate exercises and planning their progression.
Equine Fitness Plans
Whether you are bringing your horse back into work, preparing for competition or simply looking to improve their general condition, a tailored equine fitness plan can provide structure and direction to your training.
Plans can incorporate a variety of exercises including hacking, hill work, pole work, groundwork and ridden schooling, with progressive changes to duration, intensity and difficulty. The aim is to gradually develop strength, cardiovascular fitness, stamina, balance, coordination and overall condition without asking the horse to progress faster than they are physically prepared for.
Equine Rehabilitation Plans
Following injury or a period of reduced activity, rehabilitation needs to be carefully managed and progressed according to the individual horse.
Where appropriate, I can create an equine rehabilitation exercise plan that works alongside veterinary diagnosis and guidance. This may include controlled movement, groundwork, pole exercises and progressive strengthening. With consideration given to mobility, muscle development, compensatory movement patterns and the horse's stage of recovery.
As rehabilitation progresses, the plan can be reviewed and adapted in response to how the horse is moving, coping with their workload and developing physically.
Each fitness or rehabilitation plan is created with realistic goals for both horse and owner, making it practical to follow as part of your normal routine. The aim is to provide a clear, progressive programme that supports your horse in becoming stronger, fitter and better prepared for the demands of their individual workload.
Take a look at some of my own research into how Equine Osteopathy can support your horse:
The Benefits of Equine Osteopathy: How Can Osteopathy Support Your Horse
Understanding Equine Myofascial Lines: Fascia, Movement & Performance