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  Discussion on Exercise for stiff side
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Member:
Maggienm

Posted on Wednesday, Jun 22, 2005 - 10:50 am:

My horse DrOps his back lead when cantering to the right. Not surprisingly he is quite stiff bending to the left.
Bending left is what will stretch and supple his stiff right side.

What about specific exercises for strenthening his right hind?
My theory is since he doesn't like to use that side it is weaker.
Suppling alone will help but I think it also needs to be stronger.
Any ideas?
Member:
Hwood

Posted on Wednesday, Jun 22, 2005 - 12:32 pm:

If your horse doesn't bend well to the left, it is because his right side IS stronger, and those muscles contract better. You are correct that the muscles on the right side need to stretch, but the muscles on the left side need to strengthen. Any of the bending/giving to the holding of a rein or lead line on the left side will help with strengthening the left side muscles and suppling the muscles on the right side. You can do the exercises from the ground at a stand still, and up on top from a stand still and walk, and then ask for them at the trot. Do twice as many "gives" on the left as on the right. Backing up exercises will help strengthen his back and hinds, and turns on the forehand will help as well, but I'd start with the "giving the nose" exercises. If you haven't done them before, it's simply taking the slack from the rein or lead on one side of the horse and holding the rein back to where your hip is or would be if you were sitting on top. As soon as the horse puts slack into the rein/lead, RELEASE completely . . . praise . . . wait a couple of seconds and repeat. Ideally, eventually, you are looking for the horse to come to you on the lightest cue, (just the touch of your hand on the rein) bringing his nose to a spot behind his elbow . . . Do these exercises every time you groom, lead and ride. Expect it to take time . . . you will see good results.
Member:
Maggienm

Posted on Thursday, Jun 23, 2005 - 11:11 am:

Thanks Holly, Yes I do 'giving' exercises.
So, his right side is stronger, that makes sense, he DrOps his rear lead because his left side is weaker. Just getting this clear in my head.
He needs to learn to reach under himself with the left hind and push. Of course he needs the strength to do that.
Backing esp on a curve to the left will help.
He is good about giving but lately its becoming more of an 'ooze' give rather than a 'good' give. I think my release is prompt and complete.
Member:
Hwood

Posted on Thursday, Jun 23, 2005 - 1:09 pm:

I guess I would double up on the giving to the left, Lori, and I would do more turns on the forehand, getting the horse to reach uder with his hinds . . . Also, doing a controlled canter uphill on the trail, especially to the left ;-)
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