Baited Neck Stretch

The baited neck stretch is a brilliant exercise for both engaging and strengthening the core muscles, as well as increasing your horse's lateral flexibility.

You will need 'bait' for this exercise: something to encourage your horse to move in the desired direction. This could be a carrot, some grass, hay, etc.

Make sure your horse is standing square for this exercise.

Stand to the side of the horse that you will be asking them to bend towards.

Holding the bait at the horse's lips, entice the chin towards the stifle. Ensure you hold the bait approximately 30cm away from the horse's side and that the horse's ears remain level throughout the exercise. Repeat in a smooth, slow manner.

The aim of the exercise is to be combining low flexion and lateral bend.

Many horses may find it difficult to reach too far back when starting out, so initially just take them to where they can comfortably manage. They will build flexibility and range of motion over time.

After the stretch has been achieved, try to get them to hold this position. When starting out, it is best to just get your horse used to the movement and following the bait. Reward them with the bait to eat once they have achieved the correct movement to the best of their ability. Over time, build up the time they can hold this stretch.

Start with a 3 second hold, then build up fortnightly by a couple 2-3 seconds. Once your horse can do 8 reps of 5 second holds, try for 3 sets.

Repeat this exercise on the other side.

Try to do this exercise twice on each side, 3-4 times a week and see how your horse improves in their flexibility over time.