Pilates for Horses: A Mind-Body Conditioning Program for Strength, Mobility, and Performance

By Laura Reiman and Laura Reiman MS PMA-CPT

An innovative and easy-to-use application of Pilates principles to the training, conditioning, and rehabilitation of horses. This highly illustrated how-to manual provides a clear guide to new ways of thinking about how to prevent injury in the horse, and when injuries do happen, to help the horse's body recover in a mindful and safe way. As a Pilates teacher for humans, horsewoman and eventer Laura Reiman has seen first-hand how consistent, quality exercise can ward off strain and injury, as well as heal. When her young horse was diagnosed with extreme back pain and a neurological disease, she turned to her knowledge of Pilates--the method she'd used to ease back pain in human clients for years--for help. She began to find ways to "bridge the gap" between the horse's mind and body to help increase his body awareness and core engagement. The result is a cohesive series of original exercises that can be taken in parts or as a whole and seamlessly incorporated into an existing training program to be a: Preventive tool to increase the horse's strength, balance, mobility, and stability. Framework for a new program to help ease a horse back into work following an injury or time off. Readers will find chapters dedicated to: Observation -Basic anatomy and how to "know" your horse's body and movement. Stretching -Including incentive, supported static hold, and dynamic mobilization stretches. Core work -Such as the cat stretch and bridging. In-hand strengthening work -With exercises like criss-cross and ground pole progressions. Exercises on the longe line -Transitions, bending, and spiraling. Lessons under saddle -Gymnastics, hillwork, basic dressage, and tips for a successful warm-up. Alternative bodywork -Temperature therapy, massage, stability pads, bands, and more. Pilates for Horses is an ideal instructional guide for all riders and trainers looking to build and maintain a solid foundation of strength and comfort for their horses.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1570769788
• ISBN13: 9781570769788
• Release Date: April 2021
• Publisher: Trafalgar Square Books
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 1.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 8.6" x 8.5"