Which starts with the the hind end: impulsion, engagement, "stepping under".
In case you haven't seen this video yet on my Facebook page, I thought I'd post it here.
This has to be one of the most informative videos I have seen about how riding affects the horse's back. There are visuals, radiographs, an instructor's perspective, as well as veterinarian explanations. The video is 18 minutes long, so save it for when you have enough time to sit and really watch.
One of the riding recommendations is to use the stretch as a way to help the horse develop his topline and strength over the back. I've written quite a bit about this over the years, and I'll attach links below. Needless to say, I'm a "stretchy fan" - if you're familiar with my writing (and riding) - so I am thrilled to see this information presented so clearly.
Of course, I'm not saying that you should go around in a stretchy all the time - just as a way to develop strength, suppleness, "forward", and comfort for the horse - especially in the early years of training. You can start with a stretch, take a break with a stretch, finish with a stretch. Intersperse it through your whole ride.
I'm hoping you'll find some nuggets of useful information here. Enjoy!
From the blog archives:
How To Stretch Your Horse Over The Topline
Why An Active Stretch Is Nothing Like A Neck Down
An Awesome Over-The-Back Suppling Warm-Up At The Walk
How You Can See A Horse's Active Back - And What To Do When It Happens
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