Product Description

A long–awaited update of the classic equine massage reference



Fully revised and updated, this new edition provides step–by–step instructions and more than 180 photographs and diagrams to help riders and professionals alike master equine massage techniques. This authoritative guide provides detailed information about massage movements, pressures, rhythms, and sequences. It includes:
∗ An introduction to equine anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
∗ Practical information on stretching and hydrotherapy
∗ Four new chapters covering equine myofascial massage, Equine TMJ (temporomandibular joint) Dysfunction Syndrome, Equine Muscular Compensation Phenomenon, and saddle fitting
∗ A conformation check–up routine
∗ Information about areas of stress specific to each discipline and different massage techniques and routines for different situations
∗ A handy comb–bound format that lays flat for convenient use in the stable


Equine massage enhances the performance and quality of life of horses by increasing flexibility, reducing stiffness, improving attitude, and shortening recovery time from injury. In addition to its many health benefits, equine massage strengthens the bond between the horse and his owner, trainer, or groom. Using these techniques, you′ll learn to "see" with your hands and sense areas that need special attention. Equine Massage, Second Edition is truly a hands–on guide to proven massage techniques that improve a horse′s well–being.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #67137 in Books
• Published on: 2007-03-02
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Plastic Comb
• 352 pages

From the Back Cover
A long–awaited update of the classic equine massage reference

Fully revised and updated, this new edition provides step–by–step instructions and more than 180 photographs and diagrams to help riders and professionals alike master equine massage techniques. This authoritative guide provides detailed information about massage movements, pressures, rhythms, and sequences. It includes:

• An introduction to equine anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
• Practical information on stretching and hydrotherapy
• Four new chapters covering equine myofascial massage, Equine TMJ (temporomandibular joint) Dysfunction Syndrome, Equine Muscular Compensation Phenomenon, and saddle fitting
• A conformation check–up routine
• Information about areas of stress specific to each discipline and different massage techniques and routines for different situations
• A handy comb–bound format that lays flat for convenient use in the stable

Equine massage enhances the performance and quality of life of horses by increasing flexibility, reducing stiffness, improving attitude, and shortening recovery time from injury. In addition to its many health benefits, equine massage strengthens the bond between the horse and his owner, trainer, or groom. Using these techniques, you′ll learn to "see" with your hands and sense areas that need special attention. Equine Massage, Second Edition is truly a hands–on guide to proven massage techniques that improve a horse′s well–being.

About the Author
JEAN–PIERRE HOURDEBAIGT, a Licensed Massage Therapist, is internationally renowned for his unique Massage Awareness Method. He travels the world teaching his techniques, which are used by competitive and recreational riders, veterinarians and veterinary technicians, physiotherapists, massage therapists, farriers, trainers, and breeders. He can be found at www.massageawareness.com.

Customer Reviews

Perceptive, Useful Addition to any Equine Book Collection
Detailed, and well researched, including a chapter on Hydrotherapy (not commonly included in books on the topic). The clear photographic guide aids in the understanding of the numerous and varied techniques, many of which reap valuable rewards.

best so far
i am an equine shiatsu practitioner & i am keen to explore other hands-on techniques. i have read a few horse massge books but this is the only one so far that has given quite clear descriptions of massage techniques, & would enable even someone new to this kind of therapy to feel confident to have a go! it's the sort of book you can take into the stable with you & try out different techniques on your horse. it's also written in plain english! although my only concern is with the stretching section. some of the stretches take the animals limbs beyond their normal range of motion & you can clearly see the horses discomfort in the pictures (compared to their reaction during other techniques). i would be slightly concerned at the lay-person trying out some of these stretches on their own horses & wondering why they showed resentment!

Equine massage
The book is well presented with clear diagrams and plates, which enhance the descriptive text. As a practical guide the book is excellent. The physiological section of the book is very simplistic and the book would be improved for the lay reader if references were given to further reading on equine physiology.