Why Hoop For Your Horse?

Have you ever noticed that you and your horse are a lot alike? Have you ever observed that if your right hip is tight, your horse may also have a tight right hip? If so, why is that? Does your body movement effect your horses movement?

If a rider cannot allow their body to move freely, then neither can your horse. Over time, your horse may need to learn movement patterns to compensate. Once your horse begins to imprint these motor patterns, they become less supple and prone to injury.

Ultimately, we want to enhance our horse's beauty and not inhibit their movement. Therefore, our ground work is just as important as our horse's ground work!

If a rider is more relaxed in her seat, then the spine can be more supple. According to certified hypnotherapist (CHT.) Stephanie Moses, who practices bio-emotional release, the nervous system must be in a more "parasympathetic state." A parasympathetic state is when you are relaxed and at ease. The opposite is the sympathetic state. This is the fight or flight response that our horse's are familiar to when they feel threatened. Consequently, we use rhythm and repetition to allow the horse to relax and release tension.

Rhythm and repetition are key elements of the hula hoop. The hula hoop is an excellent and inexpensive way to achieve a parasympathetic state. This type of ground work is fun and teaches you to relax into movement. The more you can relax into movement, the more supple your spine becomes. The hoola hoop is also a tool to work on core strengthening and endurance training. Be sure to hoop in both directions so you and your horse will be symmetrical. The more supple you become, the easier you and your horse can dance together!

Jodi Jainchill PT, CFMT