Applying Exercise Prescription Principles to Improve Thoracic Spine Epaxial Symmetry and Posture in an Off-Track Thoroughbred

Background: Transitioning a thoroughbred from flat racing to a career as a performance horse is a common occurrence, with some study highlighting this is almost half of all retired horses (46%). The muscular and postural demands of disciplines like dressage and jumping differ from racing, necessitating appropriate strength and conditioning (S&C) to prevent injury and enhance performance. Common problems seen immediately after retirement in off-the-track thoroughbreds (OTTB) include increased thoracic lordosis, and poor muscle development of thoracic epaxial and muscular asymmetry due to training and racing predominately in one direction. Research has shown that thoracic posture and muscular asymmetries can be measured with a high degree of validity with a flexicurve ruler.

Materials and Methods: In this case study, we employed flexicurve ruler measurements to evaluate the thoracic posture and muscle symmetry of an OTTB. Using this data, we designed an 8-week tailored groundwork program based on exercise prescription and S&C principles to prepare the horse for a career in showjumping. Reassessment at the midpoint and program’s end objectively tracked changes.

Results: The 8-week dynamic groundwork exercise program led to a significant improvement in symmetry of the thoracic epaxials from the wither to the caudal thoracic spine and thoracic spine posture.

Conclusion: Groundwork exercises including long lining, in-hand lateral movements and lunging can induce significant changes in thoracic spine muscular symmetry and posture in the OTTB. These changes can be objectively measured using a flexicurve ruler.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
12. September 2025