Looking for a simple way to improve your horse’s comfort, movement, and focus before your ride? These 5 pre-ride massage techniques take just a few minutes and can help your horse feel looser, more relaxed, and ready to work.
Pre-ride massage isn’t about making things fancy—it’s about connection, awareness, and setting your horse up for success. These techniques target common tension areas and help improve circulation, range of motion, and overall rideability.
Here are 5 pre-ride massage techniques to try today:
- Poll massage:
- Gently massaging around the poll helps release tension in the atlas joint, allowing your horse to stretch down more easily and connect into the bridle.
- Wither rocking:
- Lightly rocking the withers side to side helps relax the muscles along the spine, encouraging the horse to lift through the back during work.
- Ribcage fascia release:
- Running your fingers gently along the ribs can release fascial tension, promoting deeper breathing and a more supple topline.
- Glute circles:
- Slow circles over the gluteal muscles help soften the hindquarters, making it easier for your horse to engage and push from behind.
- Tail circles:
- Gentle circles at the base of the tail help mobilize the sacrum and pelvis, encouraging relaxation and more fluid movement.
Each of these techniques should feel good to your horse. If your horse shows any signs of discomfort, go lighter, skip the spot, or consult a qualified equine bodyworker.
In the Austin, Tx area and ready to give your horse the full-body treatment?
Click here to book an equine massage session with me today to help your horse feel and perform their best. Whether they’re heading to a show or just out for a hack I look forward to helping your horse!