09/09/2026
Before I ask Koa to get stronger, I want to give his body a chance to let go.
Because I'm not about to build strength on top of a body that's already working too hard just to hold itself together.
As I worked with him, I found tension through his left front, lumbar area, ribs, lower neck and poll.
And his hind legs? He couldn't certain positions comfortably.
So I didn't push him through it. I listened and worked with whatever his body handed me.
I also spent time loosening his ribs and back. Because a better topline isn't just about adding exercises we want to build a body that's actually ready to do the work.
This is why Koa's conditioning isn't just pole work and strengthening.
We're working the whole picture.
Release → movement → strength → better body.
If you're working toward more strength and conditioning with your horse, this is where I'd start. It just makes things a little easier for both of you, less compensating for him, less guesswork for you, before it has a chance to grow into something bigger.
Equineunwindtherapeutics.com
Arizona