Following extensive research into this subject, human therapist and equestrian trainer Karin Blignault has written Stretch Exercises for Your Horse, an innovative and thought- provoking book which shows how the principles long applied to human athletes can be used for the considerable benefit of horses, and the enhancement of their performance, across the whole range of equestrian sport, In this book, Karin explains the role of stretch exercises in preventing injury, alleviating pain and improving performance, the need to develop suppleness in tandem with strength, and the part played by the classical ridden movements in the gymnastic development of the horse. After discussing the basic anatomy and physiology of muscles and how they work together in groups, Karin describes a number of mounted and dismounted exercises which benefit specific groups of muscles and explains fully and clearly how each exercise should be performed. Stretch Exercises for Your Horse will be of great interest to all owners and trainers of sport horses, and all those who wish to contribute to the constructive development of the horses they ride-
Karin Blignault started riding in her early twenties and had competition success in showjumping, horse trials and dressage. She competes in high level dressage, teaches riding and participates in equestrian seminars. Having studied occupational therapy, Karin took a diploma in the education of children with learning difficulties and then studied neuro-developmental therapy.
Following this she went on to lecture on the development of visual perception and learning theory. Karin became increasingly aware of the parallels between communication techniques and the facilitation of movement in disabled children, and the key concepts of classical equitation.
Further exploration of these parallels, in which she combined her knowledge of anatomy and neurology with her equestrian expertise, led to her writing the highly acclaimed Successful Schooling -Train Successful Schooling -Train Your Horse with Empathy.
Now, further combining her skills with the latest specialist research, she has produced Stretch Exercises for Your Horse.
Yoga, Pilates and many other 'workouts' involve the use of stretch exercises to keep our own bodies supple and toned, so why not apply this to horses too? This is an interesting book that not only explains the importance of stretching but the 'when to' and 'how to'as well. Many of the exercises are backed up by diagrams and excellent colour photos. With the level of competition ever rising and the demands on horse and rider also increasing this is a 'must have' book for all who take their riding seriously.
Published by J A ALLEN & Co Ltd
April 2003: £18.99
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