What the Topline Says About Horse and Rider by Manolo Mendez

This article first appeared on EquiNaturally.com.au

The article by Manolo Mendez delves into the importance of observing and understanding a horse’s body to improve its training and overall well-being. Mendez emphasizes the significance of analyzing the topline and underline of a horse’s body, which includes muscles, skeleton parts, and posture. By observing the horse’s expression, muscle tone, and movement patterns, valuable insights can be gained about its physical condition and training history.

Mendez stresses the need for holistic training that considers the horse’s entire body rather than focusing on isolated parts. He discusses the detrimental effects of improper training techniques, such as overuse of draw reins or incorrect neck positioning, which can lead to stiffness, asymmetry, and behavioral issues in horses.

Through detailed examination and gentle exercises, Mendez demonstrates how to assess a horse’s flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. He highlights the importance of straightness, balance, and suppleness in a horse’s body for optimal performance and longevity.

Furthermore, Mendez emphasizes the role of the rider in maintaining the horse’s wellness through mindful training practices. He encourages riders to develop a deep understanding of their horse’s individual needs and to prioritize their physical and mental health.

Overall, the article underscores the importance of treating the horse as a whole being and advocates for training methods that promote harmony, balance, and well-being in both horse and rider.

View the illustrated PDF below.