This topic explores two stretching exercises, the Bow (Front Crunch) and the Back Crunch, which help increase flexibility, balance, and strength in horses.
The Bow (Front Crunch)
• The horse lowers its shoulders with its front legs stretched forward, while its hind legs stay straight under the body.
• This movement opens the shoulder joints, allowing for greater freedom in movements like Spanish Walk, extended trot, or passage.
• Training involves guiding the horse’s head between its front legs using a hand target or light cue while ensuring the hindquarters remain engaged.
• The depth of the bow increases over time with gentle progression and rewards.
The Back Crunch
• The horse lowers its pelvis while its hind legs stretch behind the body, increasing flexibility in the hindquarter joints.
• This movement helps counterbalance collection exercises like piaffe, levade, and pesade, which require strong contraction of the hip and belly muscles.
• The horse learns by gradually moving its front legs forward while keeping the hind legs in place.
• It’s essential to let the horse discover the movement at its own pace to prevent strain.
Key Insights
• Alternating between contraction (collection) and stretching builds strength and suppleness.
• Teaching these exercises alongside advanced movements helps prevent fatigue and stiffness.
• Avoid forcing deep stretches—horses should perform them voluntarily.
These exercises align with AND’s philosophy, promoting natural movement and biomechanical balance through positive reinforcement.