The Equestrian Physio: On Air

I’m back! After a little holiday pause and a busy January enrollment inside TEP Training, it feels really good to hit record again. In this episode, I unpack a post I shared recently that stirred up more than a few strong reactions. It started with a simple observation: riders being asked to do laps in two point “to strengthen their legs.” I questioned whether that’s really the most effective way...

Asymmetry is one of the biggest things riders obsess over. Leg length, crookedness, hip rotation, handedness, “my pelvis is twisted,” “one stirrup always feels longer,” all of it. The question is… when does it actually matter? In this episode, I dig into what asymmetry really means for riders, when we care about it, and when it’s completely normal. I talk through why most athletes (in almost every...

Hypermobility doesn’t have to mean pain, fatigue, or “I can’t.” In this episode, we unpack what hypermobility really is, what it means for riders, and how we can train smarter so both our bodies (and our horses) feel better. I break down the spectrum from simple joint hypermobility to HSD and hEDS, how these conditions show up for equestrians, and why strength training can be such a powerful tool...

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Do Barn Chores Count as Training? And what is the Physical Activity Paradox? Unless you've been living under a rock, you're likely aware that riders (or any athlete, really) need to be doing some kind of dry-land training to supplement their riding. If not for the performance aspect of it, at least training to give your horse the same courtesy they give you; namely, showing up as a active...

In this episode, we discuss the core values and mission behind the training system. We'll talk through the importance of treating equestrians as athlete s, the need for evidence-based training , and the significance of empowerment through education . I outline the journey of building this training system, the challenges of identifying quality programming , and the importance of commitment and...

In this episode of Equestrian Physio on Air, we dive into the complex relationship between gym training asymmetries and their potential impact on riding performance. We discuss the importance of critical thinking in evaluating claims about asymmetry (and in general), the benefits of both bilateral and unilateral training, and the necessity of movement variability. We see this all the time online:...

SUMMARY In this episode, we’re tackling one of the most hotly debated topics in equestrian circles: Is mounting from the ground harmful to your horse’s back—or are we oversimplifying the issue? We start with where this tradition came from (yes, swords are involved), and then take a deep dive into what the research actually says about the forces placed on your horse’s spine during mounting, especia...

SUMMARY In this solo episode, we walk through the real-life framework I use every time I’m asked, “Should I try this?” Whether it’s red light therapy, PEMF, taping, spinal mobilization, or even just a new stretch or gadget, we break down how to move past the hype and make a sound clinical decision. We’re talking about critical thinking and clinical reasoning —two terms that get thrown around a lot...

In this episode, we discusses the essential components of being an effective rider, and look at a framework that I like to use of six pillars: strength, mobility, body awareness, power, endurance, and skill. Training off horse is essential to build physical capacity and allow riders to focus on skill development while riding. We also touch on common misconceptions in equestrian training and the ne...

In this episode, we chat about the principles of rehabilitation, focusing on pain management, understanding diagnoses, and the importance of movement and recovery. Takeaways Rehabilitation is not just about exercises; it's about understanding and managing symptoms. You are not defined by your diagnosis; it is just a part of your story. Imaging results do not always correlate with pain levels or fu...

In this episode of Equestrian Physio, we discuss the challenges equestrians face in maintaining a consistent training routine. We'll go over the importance of understanding psychological barriers, the need for curiosity in overcoming limitations, and practical strategies for habit formation. Keywords equestrian, physiotherapy, training, psychology, habit formation, consistency, barriers, motivatio...

Join host Katie, a Canadian physiotherapist with a passion for equestrian and equine rehab, as she shares her unique journey into the world of physiotherapy. From her early days on a family breeding farm to overcoming personal challenges and launching the Equestrian Physio brand, Katie's story is one of resilience and dedication. Keywords Equestrian Physio, physiotherapy, equestrian athletes, stre...

In this episode of Equestrian Physio on Air, we discusses the importance of periodization in training for equestrians. We dive into how structured training can enhance performance, manage fatigue, and reduce injury risk. The conversation covers the definition of periodization, its application in both rider and horse training, and the benefits of understanding these principles for improved athletic...

In this episode of The Equestrian Physio On Air, we discusses the importance of foundational training for equestrians, emphasizing the need for a structured approach to training that goes beyond quick fixes. We go through how to create effective training programs tailored to individual equestrian disciplines and addresses the significance of individual needs and rehabilitation in training.takeaway...