Building The Balanced Horse: Training Strategies for Injury Prevention

As physiotherapists, we see many horses experiencing pain and injury that could have been prevented. Their owners aren't neglectful (most are deeply committed to their horse's wellbeing), but simply lacked the knowledge to recognise the subtle signs that something wasn't quite right.

This book bridges that gap. Drawing on our years of experience in human/equine physiotherapy and sports science, we provide a clear framework for understanding exercise prescription and training. You'll learn how to structure programs that reduce the risk of injury, build strength and resilience, and support long-term soundness and performance.

Through practical examples and case studies, we share how to:

• recognise and prevent overuse injuries
• manage training loads and recovery effectively
• assess and monitor your horse's soundness and performance

You will also gain a deep understanding of anatomy and the effects of different exercises, surfaces, speed and the influence of the rider. QR codes to view videos of all the exercises described are provided throughout the book.

We don't offer you a "one-size-fits-all" plan. This 160 page book provides you with the skills to tailor exercise and training to your horse's individual needs so that you can make confident, informed decisions that truly benefit their wellbeing.

Kristin is an equine and human physiotherapist. After many years of working in musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy, she undertook further training in equine physiotherapy, working closely with leading veterinarians and physiotherapists in the field of equine rehabilitation. Her clinical work is grounded in biomechanical analysis and exercise prescription, and she is passionate about providing practical, evidence-based solutions to help both horse and rider reach their full performance potential.Along with her business partner, Emma Mathlin, Kristin has worked with associations including Equestrian NSW, the National High Performance Squads, Dressage NSW Young Riders, and has consulted for equestrian associations and thoroughbred racing / breeding. She has presented for groups such as the Australian Physiotherapy Association, International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy, Swiss Federation of Animal Physiotherapy, The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy, Onlinepethealth and Dr David Marlin.

An experienced human and animal physiotherapist, Emma works with horses and riders of all levels and disciplines. In addition to master's level animal physiotherapy qualifications, she has also completed a post graduate master's in sports science. As part of this study she conducted research into the effect of rider experience on the horse kinematics of show jumping. At an elite level, Emma has worked with the Australian equestrian team, attending both the World Equestrian Games in 2014 and the Rio 2016 Olympics. She is interested in all areas of equestrian performance, including fitness and posture training for riders and biomechanical analysis and movement training for horse and rider. She loves to assist the horse and rider partnership to improve their performance. Along with her business partner, Kristin Dean, Emma has worked with associations including Equestrian NSW, the National High Performance Squads, Dressage NSW Young Riders, and has consulted for equestrian associations and thoroughbred racing / breeding. She has presented for groups such as the Australian Physiotherapy Association, International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy, Swiss Federation of Animal Physiotherapy, The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy, Onlinepethealth and Dr David Marlin.