The Benefits of Ground Work for Improving Equine Performance

Claire Johnston, Veterinary Physiotherapist, Human Sports Massage Therapist, IRVAP AHPR SMA BSc Hons

Introduction:

Groundwork is an essential component of equine training that lays the foundation for improved performance, enhanced strength, and overall well-being of your horse. Incorporating a variety of exercises such as pole work, hill work, in-hand lateral work, and stretching can lead to significant benefits. Let’s explore how these different elements contribute to your horse's physical and mental health.

Varied Pole Work: Enhancing Joint Flexion and Core Strength:

Pole work is a versatile exercise that can be tailored to target various aspects of your horse's development. By arranging poles at different heights and distances, you can encourage your horse to lift its legs higher, promoting joint flexion, improving topline and enhancing flexibility. Additionally, navigating poles requires balance and coordination, which in turn strengthens the core muscles. Regular pole work can also improve your horse's rhythm and cadence, crucial elements for advanced riding disciplines.

Tips for Effective Pole Work:

· Start with ground poles and gradually progress to raised poles as your horse becomes more confident.

· Vary the distances between poles to challenge your horse's stride length.

· Incorporate both straight lines and curved paths to enhance agility and coordination.

Hill work: Building Back and Hind Limb Power:

Hill work is an excellent exercise for developing your horse's back and hind limb muscles. Ascending hills requires your horse to engage its hindquarters more intensely, building strength and power in these critical areas. The act of climbing also promotes cardiovascular fitness, improving overall stamina and endurance.

Tips for Effective Hill Work:

· Begin with gentle slopes and gradually progress to steeper inclines.

· Incorporate both walking and trotting up hills to vary the intensity.

· Ensure your horse maintains a steady, balanced pace to maximize muscle engagement and avoid strain.

In-hand Lateral Work: Aiding Suppleness and Coordination:

In-hand lateral work involves guiding your horse through various lateral movements such as shoulder-ins, leg yields, and half-passes while you remain on the ground. These exercises are invaluable for enhancing suppleness and flexibility, as they encourage your horse to bend and stretch its muscles in different directions. Additionally, lateral work improves coordination and balance, contributing to better overall movement and performance under saddle.

Tips for Effective In-Hand Lateral Work:

· Use clear, consistent signals to guide your horse through each movement.

· Start with basic lateral exercises and gradually progress to more complex maneuvers.

· Practice regularly to develop muscle memory and increase your horse's responsiveness.

Stretching: Improving Flexibility and Preventing Injury:

Regular stretching is vital for maintaining and improving your horse's flexibility. Stretching exercises help lengthen muscles, increase range of motion, and reduce the risk of injury. Incorporating stretches before and after workouts can also aid in muscle recovery and reduce stiffness.

Tips for Effective Stretching:

· Perform stretches on a calm, relaxed horse to avoid tension and resistance.

· Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds, ensuring your horse remains comfortable.

· Focus on major muscle groups such as the neck, shoulders, back, and hindquarters.

Consult with a Physiotherapist:

To maximize the benefits of groundwork and ensure the exercises are tailored to your horse's specific needs, it’s essential to consult with an equine physiotherapist (EP). An EP can assess your horse’s current condition and develop a customized exercise plan that addresses any weaknesses or imbalances. Regular check-ins with your EP can help monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the training regimen.