Building a Strong Core - The Foundation of Strength, Stability and Performance

Building a Strong Core

The Foundation of Strength, Stability & Performance

A strong core is the foundation of every sound, balanced and athletic horse.

Yet the core is far more than simply the abdominal muscles. True core stability relies on the coordinated function of the thoracic sling, deep spinal stabilisers, abdominal muscles, diaphragm and pelvis, all working together to support movement, self-carriage and long-term soundness.

Whether you’re rehabilitating an injured horse, developing a young horse, supporting an older horse or simply wanting to improve performance, understanding the core can transform the way your horse moves.

This comprehensive guide takes an evidence-informed, rehabilitation-focused approach to core training, explaining not only which exercises to use, but why they work biomechanically and how they contribute to better movement, posture and performance.

Designed for owners, riders and rehabilitation professionals alike, this guide provides practical assessments, progressive exercises and structured programmes to help build a stronger horse from the inside out.

Inside this guide:

✓ Understanding the equine core muscles and their function

✓ Thoracic sling, multifidus, abdominals & pelvic stabilisers explained

✓ Static and dynamic assessment guides

✓ How to recognise signs of a weak core

✓ Progressive in-hand and ridden strengthening exercises

✓ Polework and hill work for core development

✓ Backing up, pole straddles, transitions and mobilisation exercises

✓ Carrot stretches, pelvic tucks, belly lifts & thoracic sling lifts

✓ How to combine exercises into an effective weekly programme

✓ Clinical case study and rehabilitation example

✓ Progress markers to help monitor improvement

✓ Practical clinical tips throughout

✓ Common mistakes to avoid

Perfect for:

• Horses returning from rehabilitation

• Horses diagnosed with Kissing Spines or back pain

• Ex-racehorses rebuilding strength and posture

• Young horses developing correct movement patterns

• Older horses needing improved stability and balance

• Riders wanting to improve self-carriage and performance naturally

• Anyone wanting to understand the biomechanics behind effective core training

Unlike many generic exercise guides, this resource explains how the entire system works together, helping you choose the right exercises for your individual horse rather than simply following a routine.

Educational resource only. This guide does not replace veterinary diagnosis, treatment or professional advice.

Created by The Honest Equine

Written by Fran Leach, DipHE MSK & Rehabilitation Practitioner, this guide combines practical experience, rehabilitation principles and owner-friendly education to help bridge the gap between what owners see and what their horses may be trying to communicate.

Because the more you understand the body, the better you can support the horse.

📖 Instant Digital Download (PDF)

📄 24 Pages

📱 View on phone, tablet or computer

🖨️ Printable for personal use

📍 Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

📧 Email: honestequineservies@gmail.com

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