Dynamic Mobilization Stretches
Do you own a Cookie Monster? Turn treat time into a rewarding stretch session!
Sometimes it seems like my horses have trained me to be their personal cookie dispenser (and I am happy to oblige...after all, they’re just so darn cute), but using your ponies’ favorite snack to help them feel their best and maintain happy, healthy muscles is a sweet deal!
Dynamic mobilization stretches (AKA Carrot Stretches) are an awesome way to improve and maintain flexibility and care for your horse’s muscles before and after work or on a day off.
Here are a few important notes about stretching before we begin:
Always set your horse up for success in whatever capacity you can!
Footing, as always, is very important here. Avoid stretching on slippery (including cement) or uneven surfaces. I personally don’t stretch while a horse is on cross-ties and instead elect to have someone hold them or keep them on a lead.
It is always important to listen to your horse and be patient. Stretching is no different. Meet the horse where they are that day by starting slowly and with patience.
Never stretch your horse past the point of resistance as this could lead to injury.
Use actual carrots for these stretches as they make awesome “bait” without sacrificing your fingers. Use thin carrots or cut thicker carrots into sticks for a more fluid session. Keep the carrot right at your horse’s lips to really entice them to stretch and discourage jolting movements.
For all of these stretches, ask your horse to hold the position for 5-10 seconds.
Repeat 3-5 times for each set, making sure to show equal love to both sides.
Try to keep the movements as flowing as possible to maximize the benefits of these stretches. These can be done before and/or after work and should be done consistently to see results (bonus points for stretching yourself, too!)
Chin-to-chest flow: To target the poll, neck, back, and withers. Keeping your horse’s head in alignment with their spine (horse should be standing square) slowly guide your horse’s nose to their chest. From there, ask your horse to stretch towards the knees, then towards the hoof.
Lateral stretches: Guide your horse towards the heart girth. For the next set, reach your horse’s nose towards the point of hip. After holding for a few seconds, you may swoop the carrot down so that your horse reaches for their hock. If you are just starting these stretches, do this as a separate set. Keep this motion fluid by stretching your own arm in a deep “C” motion.
Happy stretching!
Check out these YouTube videos and my Instagram for visual references!
Horses Inside Out
https://youtu.be/NF6-iwSpoYY
Dr. Maddy Courville
https://youtu.be/bO_Op1LrTSI
