Why Horses Quit Moving Their Backs: The Research
A horse that quits moving its back is giving invaluable feedback. It is not being stubborn; it is communicating. By understanding this clear link—from the rider's influence, to the physical damage it can cause, to the horse's protective response—we can truly begin to solve the problem at its source.
Article Summary
After a horse has been moving in a braced, protective way for a long time, a final physiological change occurs. The deep, dynamic stabilizing muscles (multifidus) begin to atrophy from disuse. The large, superficial back muscles become chronically tight from doing a job they weren't designed for.
Discover how these simple observations can reveal deep truths about your horse's balance, straightness, and readiness for more collected work. The full article provides a complete guide to assessing each pattern and understanding what it tells you about your horse and your program, helping you know for certain if you are on the right track.
This article is exclusively part of Kjrsos Magazine Volume 13.
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Part of the series in our Kjrsos Courses on studying the biomechanics and issues in the horse's back.
The Kjrsos Experience ~
Is learning how to free movement in the horse.
Is understanding that the rider is the most influential factor affecting the horse's back
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Kjrsos ~ A Way to Live That Changes Things
This is how we become more powerful teachers, mentors & friends
To our horses, to each other, to the earth and to all living things.