Core Strengthening Exercises 

Static and dynamic core strengthening exercises are integral to all horses rehabilitation and ongoing well being. As the name suggests the stretches are designed to develop core strength but also to maintain the suppleness needed for a horse to be comfortable in doing the work we require of them. 
All the horses in our care at Kazia Equine will undertake a series of static exercises as part of their rehabilitation. As they move from box rest to restricted work, we will begin to include dynamic exercises into their rehabilitation regime.  

Even on their return home, once they have completed their rehabilitation and are back in ridden work, we will give you a series of exercises to complete to maintain muscle strength and suppleness.  ​

Why are carrot stretches important?

​Suppleness and core stability are the two main reasons for doing carrot stretches. By building strength through the abdominal and pelvic core you provide support for the horse’s back, so it can lift beneath the rider during work creating greater hind limb engagement.  

In training and developing your horse for ridden work, the three key stages are relaxation, suppleness and straightness (which you may recognise from your dressage sheets).  If the horse’s core and back is strong, supple and straight, then you will see better relaxation when ridden.  

Whichever discipline you do with your horse, core strength exercises will help them to carry their rider and prevent injury.