Author(s): Karen Blignault

Sports & Outdoors

Occupational therapist and equestrian trainer Karin Blignault explains: The importance of stretch exercises in preventing injury, alleviating pain and improving performance The need to develop suppleness in tandem with strength. The important role of classical ridden movements as active stretch exercises. The basic anatomy and physiology of muscles and their associated tissues. How muscles work together in groups, and which exercises benefit which muscles. The fundamental principles of how to perform active stretch exercises as a rider from the saddle, and passive stretch exercises from the ground. The individual exercises are explained in detail, with clear, specific instructions designed to ensure that they are carried out in the most beneficial manner, with no risk of injury to horse or handler.