I know it is not nice, but I have to say it. This has been bothering me for a while and I just can't keep it to myself anymore.

Most of you don't know how to properly stretch a horse!!!

Whew - I feel better now. OK, all kidding aside, it may seem mean to be saying this so bluntly, but unfortunately it is the truth. I have seen way too many people grab a leg, give it a quick, hard yank and then drop the foot - hard - back onto the ground . They usually do this before riding their horse while his muscles are still cold - which can do more harm than good. But honestly, even if the horse was warmed up, this really isn't stretching. I don't really understand just what it is that they think this is supposed to do?!?!?

If you are one of these people - Please stop this nonsense immediately!!! You are NOT helping your horse. You may actually be doing him harm.





I have not had a chance to write instuction on the proper way to stretch your horse. I will try to get to that very soon. The sections I have finished so far are:

• The Difference Between Active and Passive Stretching

• Equine Stretching Tips and Techniques

I am sorry I have not had time to get to instructions of how to perform stretching exercises - I will try to get to this soon.

In the meantime, check out Range of Motion Exercises for Your Horse. Range of motion exercises are not as "popular" as stretching. But I think that may be because most people don't really know about them.

One of the great things about range of motion exercises is that there is less possibility of over-stretching a muscle so in some ways they are safer than stretching exercises. The benefits of ROM exercises are similar to that of stretching. They are a great way to increase your horse's suppleness and flexibility.

Range of motion exercises are also great for a warm up or to use prior to stretching exercises.

I urge you to at least take a look and give them a try.