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With Jenny Adamson, Equine Physiotherapist & Rehabilitation Specialist

core exercises for your horse

Why Core Strength is Essential for Your Horse

March 24, 20253 min read

Why Core Strength is Essential for Your Horse – Especially if You Want to Prevent Pain & Injury

Did you know that many horses struggle with back pain—often without obvious signs? One of the most common conditions that affects horses’ backs is kissing spine (overriding dorsal spinous processes), a painful condition where the bony projections along the spine come too close together or even touch.

👉 But here’s the good news: The right core-strengthening exercises can make a huge difference in preventing and managing back issues like this!


How I Became an Expert in Equine Core Strength

I know firsthand just how crucial core strength is...and learn so much depth about this with my own horse.

Seven years ago, my horse Azuro underwent surgery for kissing spine. His rehab was a long and difficult journey, but it was during that time that I became an expert in equine core strengthening. I saw for myself how targeted exercises helped him rebuild his strength, improve his posture and flexibility, and ultimately return to comfortable, pain-free movement.

Now, as a qualified equine physiotherapist & rehabilitation specialist, I’ve helped countless horses regain their mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further injury—and I want to help your horse too!


What is Kissing Spine & Why Does It Happen?

Kissing spine occurs when the bony processes of the spine become too close together, often due to:

Weak core muscles that fail to support the spine through proper posture
Poor movement patterns and compensations
Tight, overworked back muscles due to lack of correct engagement
Ill-fitting tack or incorrect training methods

Many horse owners don’t realise their horse is struggling until discomfort becomes severe. But subtle signs—like reluctance to bend, hollowing the back, or difficulty with transitions—can indicate underlying weakness that needs attention.


How Core Exercises Help (Just Like Pilates for Humans!)

If you’ve ever had back pain, you know that strengthening your core with exercises like Pilates or physical therapy can be life-changing. The same is true for horses!

In humans, weak core muscles lead to back strain, poor posture, and even spinal issues. That’s why physical therapists recommend targeted exercises to build strength, stability, and mobility—rather than just treating symptoms.

For horses, core exercises work the same way! They:

✅ Improve posture & spinal alignment to relieve pressure on the back
✅ Help the horse engage their core correctly, preventing compensation
✅ Build long-term strength & resilience to reduce injury risk
✅ Promote better movement, balance & comfort under saddle

💡 Think of these exercises as your horse’s version of Pilates—designed to strengthen and protect their back for years to come!


Take Action: Simple Exercises Can Transform Your Horse’s Movement

The good news? Core exercises don’t have to be complicated! Just 10 minutes a day of targeted, vet-approved exercises can make a huge difference in your horse’s strength and comfort.

That’s exactly why I created my Equine Core Strengthening Exercises course—so that horse owners like you can:

Follow a simple, proven plan to strengthen your horse’s core
Help prevent back pain & conditions like kissing spine
Improve your horse’s posture, movement & overall well-being
See results with just 10 minutes a day!

🔥 For a limited time, you can get this expert-backed course for 80% OFF! Don’t miss this opportunity to make a real difference for your horse.

👉 Get Instant Access & Start Strengthening Your Horse Today!

Your horse deserves to move strong, pain-free, and with confidence. Let’s make that happen together! 🐎💙

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