We all know the importance of stretching for ourselves, but it is also good for our horses.
Here are a few simple stretches to try with your horses at home.
Chin to Knees Stretch
Try to keep ears level to avoid twist in the neck. Hold for 5-10 seconds and repeat x 2. This stretch helps to improve core stability and gives a nice stretch to muscles of the neck, wither and back. Some horses may cheat by bending a leg, this is ok provided the abdominal muscles contract and the back lifts.
Neck Extension
Keep your horse's head level or below its sternum for correct back posture, with ears level to avoid twisting the neck. Muscles in the neck are stretched, abdominal and thoracic sling muscles are activated as the horse reaches forward.
Lateral Stretch
Hold carrot about level with flank and try to keep ears level, try to avoid a twist in the neck rather than bending. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 2 each side.
