Re[2]: backward walking

lcrowley@ccmailpc.ctron.com
Thu, 12 Dec 96 08:59:54 EST

I have used backing up in moderater amounts to loosen and stretch
hamsting muscles on my horse. It is more intense to do it up a slight
grade and only in MODERATION!

LoisC
NH

______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: re: backward walking
Author: ridecamp@endurance.net at !INTERNET
Date: 12/12/96 2:23 AM

Does anyone know if there is any conditioning or strengthening advantage
to backing a horse up for more than a few steps (ie, walking backwards)?
Obviously a horse needs to know how to back readily for
maneuveribility reasons; and I've heard of using a few steps of back-up to
get the hindquarters engaged. But what about a few laps around the arena
or even a few minutes of backwards? Good or bad? Or just silly?
I'm wondering about this because while researching an entirely
different topic I came across an human article which said "Backward
walking on a treadmill is a common tool for lower extremity rehabilitation
in the clinical setting" (Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical
Therapy, Sept'95).
Comments anyone?
Tina Cobb from Santa Rosa, CA w/Trav,KC and Arnie the Gold Ret.