Rider Massage Therapy

Horses adapt their own posture in order to carry their rider. If the rider is unbalanced or stiff due to muscular problems then merely addressing any effects this has on the horse's muscular system will be a short-term solution. Riders are often unaware of their own muscular tensions and the effect this has on their posture, riding position and their horse.

Many of the beneficial effects of massage therapy are applicable to riders as well as their horses (see Equine Sports Massage Therapy page). Massage therapy can improve posture, increase mobility, relieve pain and discomfort, decrease stiffness, soreness and tension, aid circulation and lymphatic drainage, reduce stress and promote relaxation.

In addition to the clear benefits to the rider, this can also help the horse. A stressed rider with muscular tension or pain, poor joint mobility or poor posture may find that this reduces their flexibility, affects their balance and hinders their ability to deliver effective aids. This in turn impacts the horse's ability to carry their rider without any impedance of their own movement or effect on their own musculature.

A therapist qualified to treat both horse and rider is able to assess the potential impact of the rider's problems on their horse and to help both sides of the partnership to optimise their performance and comfort.

Treatments and Prices

Full body massage (90 mins) £43
Full body massage (60 mins) £35
Back, neck and shoulder massage (30 mins) £22
Face, neck and shoulder massage (30 mins) £22
Foot and leg massage (30 mins) £22

As for all complementary therapies, massage does not replace conventional medical treatment.