LK Equine Sports Therapy

LK Equine Sports Therapy Qualified Equine Sports Massage Therapist

BungeeAnother simple yet highly effective training aid, this elastic system is designed to encourage correct way of goin...
05/05/2026

Bungee

Another simple yet highly effective training aid, this elastic system is designed to encourage correct way of going. It helps to promote the horse to stretch forward and down into a soft, consistent contact.

Typically fitted from the poll, running through the bit, and attaching to either side of the girth or between the forelimbs, it creates a gentle, elastic connection that supports relaxation and engagement. This aid is best suited for flatwork or lunging, and should not be used for jumping. It works by applying light pressure to the bit, bars, and corners of the mouth when the horse raises their head excessively.

Benefits
✅Encourages stretch and improves self-carriage
✅Supports development of topline muscles and core strength
✅Supports engagement of the hindquarters
✅The elastic design acts as a giving aid rather than a fixed aid
✅Helps improve balance, rhythm, and overall way of going
✅Assists in establishing a more even contact
✅Versatile in application
✅Can be used in the stages of rehabilitation or for general fitness
✅Less complicated than some other training aids

Considerations
❌Incorrect fitting may result in discomfort or resistance
❌Overuse may lead to reliance on the aid
❌Risk of creating a false outline
❌Not suitable for jumping, as it may restrict natural head and neck movement
❌Potential for the horse to lean on the contact
❌May encourage working on the forehand if not fitted correctly

📸 Image from John Whitaker International Ltd

For more information or to book contact us on:
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk



Dressage/German Lunge AidThis training aid is valued for its simplicity, making it an appealing and popular choice for i...
30/04/2026

Dressage/German Lunge Aid

This training aid is valued for its simplicity, making it an appealing and popular choice for its users. It is designed to encourage corrective way of going, promoting the horse to stretch down. Unlike many fixed training aids, this system works with the horse’s movement. It rewards correct posture by allowing freedom and release, while incorrect posture means a gentle pressure is applied when the horse works in a hollow outline.

It is fitted by placing the training aid over the horse’s back, passing between the forelegs, and attaching each side to each bit ring. It should be adjusted so that a light pressure is felt when the horse raises its head beyond the desired position.

Benefits
✅Encourages development of topline and core strength
✅Promotes correct frame/self-carriage (long and low)
✅Supports hindquarter engagement
✅Aids in balance and straightness
✅Enhances consistency of contact
✅Assists in building muscle memory
✅Reinforces the foundations of correct flatwork
✅Suitable for rehabilitation and general fitness work
✅Less complicated than some other training aids

Considerations
❌May encourage working on the forehand if not used correctly
❌Potential for leaning or stiffness
❌Not suitable for uneducated or very young horses
❌Risk of creating a false outline if overused or incorrectly fitted

For more information or to book contact us on:
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk



Side Reins A widely recognised and traditional training aid, side reins are commonly used to encourage a steady and cons...
27/04/2026

Side Reins

A widely recognised and traditional training aid, side reins are commonly used to encourage a steady and consistent contact between the horse and the bit. They are fitted from the bit rings to either a roller or saddle and should always be adjusted to an equal length on both sides.

Typically side reins are available in leather or synthetic materials, and may also include elasticated sections to provide a degree of flexibility and softness in the contact. This equipment can help to mimic the stability of a rider’s hands, offering the horse a more consistent connection than can sometimes be achieved by a rider during ridden work.

Benefits-
✅Encourages the horse to accept a contact
✅Encourages consistent contact
✅Improves balance and straightness
✅Builds muscle and consistency
✅Helps develop topline muscles
✅Promotes a steady head and neck position
✅Useful for steady, basic training
✅Less complicated than some other training aids

Contraindications-
❌Fixed position - can restrict natural movement
❌Risk of creating a false outline
❌Can cause leaning or stiffness
❌No encouragement of hindquarter engagement
❌Easy to misuse if adjusted too short

For more information or to book contact us on:
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk



📔Why should you book in?📔Benefits- 🐴Improves performance 🐴Improves muscle tone 🐴Improves muscle function 🐴Improves circu...
24/04/2026

📔Why should you book in?📔

Benefits-
🐴Improves performance
🐴Improves muscle tone
🐴Improves muscle function
🐴Improves circulation
🐴Improves nutrients and oxygen to the tissues
🐴Improves flexibility
🐴Improves lymphatic drainage
🐴Improves muscle recovery
🐴Improves range of motion
🐴Improve proprioception
🐴Improves gait pattern
🐴Improve mental wellbeing
🐴Improves posture
🐴Helps release endorphins which act as a natural pain relief
🐴Helps reduce inflammation and swelling
🐴Helps to reduce stress and improve relaxation
🐴Helps to improve physical touch
🐴Helps relieve muscle tension, muscle spasms, and adhesions
🐴Helps reduce the risk of injury
🐴Helps within the rehab phases

What a bodywork is not-
‼️Replacement for veterinary care
‼️Whilst bodyworkers have many benefits, we are not magicians and cannot undo weeks, months, or years of issues in one session.

For more information or to book contact us on:
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk



22/04/2026

MAY AVAILABILITY

Below are my available slots for May, appointments will be during the evenings and on weekends. I appreciate your patience as I may attempt to organise group/area visits.
❕To book your horse in and avoid disappointment please contact me.❕

Current availability:

🗓️Tuesday 5th May - PM ONLY

🗓️Thursday 7th May - PM ONLY

🗓️Saturday 9th May - 8am onwards

🗓️Tuesday 12th May - PM ONLY

🗓️Thursday 14th May- PM ONLY

🗓️Saturday 16th May - 8am onwards

🗓️Tuesday 19th May- PM ONLY

🗓️Thursday 21st May- PM ONLY

🗓️Tuesday 26th May- PM ONLY

🗓️Thursday 28th May- PM ONLY

🗓️Saturday 30th May - 8am onwards

For more information or if you wish to book an appointment please contact me via:
Mobile: 07972676494
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk

13/04/2026

🐴 Training Aids 🐴

Training aids are tools used to support a horse’s training and development. When used correctly they can offer many benefits. Training Aids should always be seen as a temporary aid and not a permanent fix to a possible underlying issues. THINK if you are not seeing an improvement, then it is important to reassess or seek professional guidance.

Training aids should only be used by those with the knowledge and experience to apply them correctly, as misuse can lead to discomfort or injury to both horse or rider. If you are unsure, always consult a qualified professional on how to use the aid and correct fitting. There is no “one size fits all”.

Training Aids-
* Side reins
* Draw reins
* Pessoa
* Chambon
* De Gogue
* Harbridge
* Bungee
* German lunge aid
* EquiAmi
* Equiband

Benefits-
* Encourages a correct frame
* Supports muscle development
* Improves control and safety
* Helps correct unwanted habits
* Promotes engagement and correct movement
* Can support rehab and specific training goals

Risks-
* Overuse may cause tension or resistance
* Incorrect fitting or use can lead to discomfort or injury

For more information or to book contact us on:
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk



10/04/2026

🦴Mobilisation🦴

Equine Mobilisation is the gentle, controlled movement of your horse’s joints through their natural range of motion. There are two types of mobilisation, passive and dynamic.

Let’s take a look into the differences-
👐🏼Passive mobilisation
The therapist or owner moves the horse’s joint within a comfortable range.
👐🏼Dynamic mobilisation
The horse moves itself through exercises like carrot stretches (usually using a treat to encourage movement).

Benefits-
🦴Reduces stiffness
🦴Stimulates the production of synovial fluid
🦴Increases mobility and flexibility
🦴Improves range of motion
🦴Boosts circulation
🦴Supports pain management
🦴Improves balance and body awareness
🦴Encourages more even movement
🦴Helps prevent injury
🦴Stimulates the surrounding soft tissues

Mobilisation grades-
➡️Grade 1–2: Gentle movements or rhythmic oscillations within a comfortable range
➡️Grade 3–4: Rhythmic oscillations working closer to the end of range (resistance)
➡️Grade 5: Quick, precise movement (done by qualified chiropractors)

For more information or to book contact us on:
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk



🏇🏼Grid Work🏇🏼Grid work, sometimes referred to as gymnastics, is one of the most effective training tools for improving a...
01/04/2026

🏇🏼Grid Work🏇🏼

Grid work, sometimes referred to as gymnastics, is one of the most effective training tools for improving a horse’s technique, balance, strength, and confidence over fences. Whether you’re producing a young horse or refining the skills of an experienced jumper, grids can make a significant difference.

A grid is created by setting up a series of poles, cavaletti, and fences at carefully measured distances, allowing the horse to work through exercises in a controlled and progressive way. In this photo, you can see one of our wonderful clients, Loxley, and his owner Tate working through a grid exercise, along with an example of how to set it up.

Benefits-
👉🏼Encourages correct jumping form and bascule
👉🏼Promotes greater responsiveness to the rider’s aids
👉🏼Helps develop the ability to shorten and lengthen stride
👉🏼Improves overall confidence
👉🏼Increases suppleness
👉🏼Enhances rhythm, straightness, and balance
👉🏼Builds strength and coordination
👉🏼Helps riders develop a more secure, independent position
👉🏼Boosts confidence in both horse and rider
👉🏼Encourages the horse to lift through the shoulders
👉🏼Improves focus and concentration
👉🏼Develops quicker footwork
👉🏼Supports cardiovascular fitness
👉🏼Sharpens the rider’s eye for a distance
👉🏼Helps regulate horses that rush or over-jump fences

As you can see, grid work offers a wide range of benefits for both horse and rider. Incorporating it into your training routine not only improves performance but also adds valuable variety to your horse’s workload.

For more information or to book contact us on:
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk



I am delighted to announce that I have renewed my membership with the Institute of Registered Veterinary and Animal Phys...
31/03/2026

I am delighted to announce that I have renewed my membership with the Institute of Registered Veterinary and Animal Physiotherapists (IRVAP) for a further year.

When selecting any form of bodyworker such as a Equine Sports Massage Therapist for your horse, it is essential to choose a qualified and fully insured professional. As a registered member of IRVAP, I adhere to a strict code of conduct that ensures the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and animal welfare.

In addition, my membership requires me to complete ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD), enabling me to remain up to date with the latest research and best practices within the industry. This continued commitment ensures that I can provide the highest level of care and support for your horses.

I look forward to another year of development, and treating all your wonderful horses. 🐴🖤

🐎Equine High-Speed Treadmill🐎The equine high-speed treadmill is a controlled exercise tool designed to allow a horse to ...
24/03/2026

🐎Equine High-Speed Treadmill🐎

The equine high-speed treadmill is a controlled exercise tool designed to allow a horse to move at walk, trot, canter, or gallop on a treadmill. Typically, a horse is fitted with a bridle or chifney, and exercises may be supervised by one or two handlers positioned on either side of the horse.

Horses new to the treadmill undergo a gradual acclimatisation to ensure safety and confidence. Initial sessions may involve simply walking through the machine, standing on it, or short low-speed walks. This approach helps to ensure that the horse adapts comfortably to the equipment.

High-speed treadmills offer adjustable speeds and inclines to target specific training or rehabilitation objectives. While on the treadmill, a horse’s heart rate, respiratory rate, blood levels, and stride mechanics can be closely monitored, providing valuable feedback on performance and fitness.

Benefits-
✅Controlled environment for rehabilitation
✅Enhances overall performance
✅Effective cross-training tool
✅Improves cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength
✅Enhances straightness and symmetry
✅Increases endurance
✅Valuable for gait analysis
✅Can replace in-hand walking
✅Suitable for warm-ups or cool-downs
✅Reduce loading- exercise without the weight of a rider
✅All-weather training capability

Contraindications-
🛑Horses with challenging behaviour
🛑Significant cardiovascular issues
🛑Risk of injury if equipment is improperly used
🛑Overtraining
🛑Improper shoeing or belt contact

📸Image from Hartpury University and Hartpury College

🔁 Consistency 🔁Let’s talk about one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of your horse’s wellbeing and per...
22/03/2026

🔁 Consistency 🔁

Let’s talk about one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of your horse’s wellbeing and performance…CONSISTENCY. Achieving lasting results in your horse’s comfort or way of going rarely comes from ‘one massage session’ or a ‘single ride’. Real progress is built over time through repetition, patience, and a commitment to the process.

Consistency is NOT-
🛑 The occasional perfect ride
🛑 A once-a-week (or once-a-month) breakthrough

Consistency IS-
✅ The quiet, often unnoticed repetition of the basics
✅ Doing simple things well, and doing them regularly

Horses understand patterns far better than they understand words. They learn from what you do every time.
Being consistent-
✔ Builds trust
✔ Develops confidence
✔ Reduces stress
✔️ Improves performance
✔ Creates a sense of safety

🐴 Your horse’s team…
We already apply consistency across parts of the multidisciplinary team, so why not across ALL AREAS?

• Saddle fitters attend every 6 months
• Farriers attend every 6–8 weeks
• Vets attend at least twice a year

These are structured, and largely non-negotiable… So why are other areas like manual therapy often treated differently?

Regular manual therapy is just as important. It helps maintain soft tissue health, supports comfort, and allows small issues to be identified early before they develop into bigger problems or potential injury.

Something to think about… 💭

📚 Homework…
If you have been given exercises between sessions, they are there for a reason, I promise. They are a key part of your horse’s progress. If they are not done, it is unrealistic to expect change in your next session, because in reality, nothing has changed between sessions.

Consistency does not mean ‘perfection’.
If you can not manage everything prescribed-
➡️ Reduce it
➡️ Adapt it
➡️ BUT STILL DO SOMETHING
Small, consistent efforts will always outweigh occasional big ones.

Horses do not need perfection, they need CONSISTENCY! 🐎

For more information or to book contact us on:
Email: laylakeane@lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk
Facebook: LK Equine Sports Therapy
Instagram: lk_equine_sports_therapy
Website: www.lkequinesportstherapy.co.uk

Address

Bury St. Edmunds
IP28

Opening Hours

Monday 5:30pm - 8pm
Tuesday 5:30pm - 8pm
Wednesday 8am - 7pm
Thursday 5:30pm - 8pm
Friday 5:30pm - 8pm
Saturday 9am - 4pm

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