Here at Thorpe Farm, we have a range of tools to help us care for horses, improve their fitness and help rehabilitate them after an injury or illness. One of them is our water treadmill and in this blog, we’re taking you through all the different benefits for horses when they are exercised on one. The water treadmill can be used for horses recovering from injury or those who are fully fit and in perfect health, so read on and see if it’s something you might consider for your horse!
It provides a low-impact workout
The water provides buoyancy, which reduces any stress on tendons, ligaments and joints in the horse’s limbs. This controlled, low impact, straight line workout is suitable for horses recovering from joint injuries, back issues and other sports injuries once the vet deems them ready to restart gentle work. It’s also ideal cross training for those in full work too, giving them an unridden workout without jarring or risk of injury.
It boosts circulation to promote healing
Working on a water treadmill helps to boost circulation and stimulates the lymphatic system, both of which are part of healing and recovery. Boosting circulation is particularly important for horses recovering from injury who are only allowed limited or no turnout.
It increases cardiovascular activity
Even though a horse might not look as though it’s working particularly hard on a treadmill, the resistance provided by the water ensures it’s a cardiovascular workout and helps to improve muscle tone, in particular the hindquarters.
You can vary the depth and speed to engage different muscles
The depth of the water in the treadmill can be altered so that the horse either pushes through it or can try to ‘step over’ the water. The former provides more resistance so they work harder, whereas the latter can engage more topline and hindquarters, in a similar way to using ground poles when riding or lunging. Horses also tend to exhibit increased stride length and increased shoulder movement when working on a water treadmill.
It’s safe and hygienic for your horse to use
The team here at Thorpe Farm are highly experienced in the use of the water treadmill and know how to safely introduce it to a horse for the first time. They allow the horse to smell and look at it before stepping on it without water. Once water is added, the treadmill speed and water depth can be gradually increased so that the horse remains totally happy and confident throughout. Our water treadmill has an advanced filtration system to ensure the water is clean and safe for your horse and won’t irritate their skin.
If you would like to learn more about booking a water treadmill session for your horse or our full range of rehabilitation treatments, why not get in touch? Head over to our contact page or drop us a message on social media.