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How to keep your horse supple. Isla Millar Equine Sports Massage Therapist. How to keep your horse supple. What is suppleness Why it is important Why do problems occur. How you can improve suppleness Ridden Exercises. What is suppleness?. bend. flexibility. range of movement.
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How to keep your horse supple Isla Millar Equine Sports Massage Therapist RDA November 2008
How to keep your horse supple • What is suppleness • Why it is important • Why do problems occur • How you can improve suppleness • Ridden Exercises RDA November 2008
What is suppleness? bend flexibility range of movement elasticity expressive softness agility athletic responsive RDA November 2008
What is suppleness? RDA November 2008
How movement is created RDA November 2008
How movement is created RDA November 2008
Degree of suppleness possible • Depends on individual – • Age • Stage of training • Type = breed, size, build, conformation • Anatomy RDA November 2008
Degree of suppleness possible RDA November 2008
Why suppleness is important • Normal joint Range of Movement • Correct muscle development • Weight distribution • Balance • Large, swift movements • Muscles support joints • Muscles protect soft tissues RDA November 2008
Why do problems occur • Type of exercise / training • Lack of fitness and conditioning • Insufficient warm up and cool down • Rider – technique, weight and balance • Injury / lameness - compensatory problems • Management and care • Age RDA November 2008
Problems caused by a lack of suppleness • Incorrect weight distribution • Loss of balance • Reduced joint Range of Movement • Asymmetrical muscle development • Greater strain on joints and soft tissues e.g. tendons and ligaments RDA November 2008
How you can improve suppleness • Correct exercise / training • Improve or vary riding • Handling • Turnout • Massage & passive stretching RDA November 2008
Exercise to improve suppleness • Vary the type of exercise • Work in line with fitness and conditioning • Warm up and cool down • Incorporate dynamic stretching / suppling exercises RDA November 2008
Ridden Exercises RDA November 2008
How to keep your horse supple Equine Sports Massage Therapist Isla Millar ITEC Dip Equine Sports Massage; ITEC Dip Sports & Remedial Massage; ITEC Dip Anatomy, Physiology & Massage Telephone: 07717 175773 Email: isla@themillars.net RDA November 2008