A long-awaited update of the classic equine massage reference Fully revised and updated, this new edition provides step-by-step instructions and more than 180 photographs and diagrams to help riders and professionals alike master equine massage techniques. This authoritative guide provides detailed information about massage movements, pressures, rhythms, and sequences. It includes: * An introduction to equine anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology * Practical information on stretching and hydrotherapy * Four new chapters covering equine myofascial massage, Equine TMJ (temporomandibular joint) Dysfunction Syndrome, Equine Muscular Compensation Phenomenon, and saddle fitting * A conformation check-up routine * Information about areas of stress specific to each discipline and different massage techniques and routines for different situations Equine massage enhances the performance and quality of life of horses by increasing flexibility, reducing stiffness, improving attitude, and shortening recovery time from injury. In addition to its many health benefits, equine massage strengthens the bond between the horse and his owner, trainer, or groom. Using these techniques, you'll learn to "see" with your hands and sense areas that need special attention. Equine Massage, Second Edition is truly a hands-on guide to proven massage techniques that improve a horse's well-being.

In this book, Jim Masterson, Equine Massage Therapist for the 2006 and 2008 and 2010 USET Endurance Teams, and for equine clientele competing in FEI World Cup, Pan American and World Games competitions, teaches a unique method of equine bodywork, in which the practitioner recognizes and follows the responses of the horse to touch to release tension in key junctions of the body that most affect performance.This practical book with step-by-step instructions, photographs and illustrations is ideally suited to accompany you to the yard/stables, where you can practice the Masterson Method techniques on horses. Expanded chapters with Tips & Techniques, anatomical explanations and examples from Jim's practice help deepen your understanding. A 'quick reference' section will point you to exercises that are specifically suited to your particular discipline, may it be dressage, endurance, eventing, or others in the vast realm of horse sports.

Relieve Soreness, Improve Flexibility, and Keep Your Horse Sound Does your horse have a nagging soreness that won't go away? Does a mystery lameness come and go without obvious cause? Has your horse's performance deteriorated over the past few months? Do you want to prevent these problems from happening? If your answer is yes, then equine massage can help! Massage therapy is an excellent tool for preventing and relieving muscle soreness in horses. With the simple step-by-step techniques outlined by sisters Candy Sipka and Cherry Baldridge, you'll be able to identify and solve muscle soreness, on your own or with the assistance of a professional equine massage therapist. You'll learn the proper massage techniques and where to use them on a horse, simple stretches that can restore or improve a horse's flexibility, and even the proper position to take when working hands-on with a horse.

Relieve Soreness, Improve Flexibility, and Keep Your Horse Sound Does your horse have a nagging soreness that won't go away? Does a mystery lameness come and go without obvious cause? Has your horse's performance deteriorated over the past few months? Do you want to prevent these problems from happening? If your answer is yes, then equine massage can help! Massage therapy is an excellent tool for preventing and relieving muscle soreness in horses. With the simple step-by-step techniques outlined by sisters Candy Sipka and Cherry Baldridge, you'll be able to identify and solve muscle soreness, on your own or with the assistance of a professional equine massage therapist. You'll learn the proper massage techniques and where to use them on a horse, simple stretches that can restore or improve a horse's flexibility, and even the proper position to take when working hands-on with a horse.

Equine Muscle Magic was designed for every horse owner in a user friendly, step-by-step fashion so that you can make profound changes in your horse's health and performance through massage. At the same time, you will build a multi-level connection in your human/horse relationship, deeper than can be imagined. Learn how to clear your mind, perform stretches for horse and rider success, and master the mechanics of a successful equine massage. A 10-minute massage will get you started. Then understand the importance of building a "Body Map", and finally be able to perform a one-hour, full-body massage for your specific equine discipline.

It's a fact. Massage helps your horse be healthier and happier!This book will help you understand the many benefits of equine massage and bodywork. Learn basic massage techniques to support the physical and emotional wellness of the horses you love.What will horse owners learn in this book?-Detect problem areas more easily-Valuable tools to provide basic pain relief-Aid healing to help your animals become more comfortable-Six ways that massage works and why-Simple step-by-step techniques using beautiful color photographs-How to identify your animal's stress and dysfunction-Learn to improve your touch skills-Tips on finding and working with a professionalFind out why horse owners use this book to support their animals' health and well-being. Buy it today!