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Cat-Cow
[F4] a stretch for the whole back and neck
The Cat-Cow is a yoga pose that’s great for stretching the whole of your back and neck.
How do I do it?
Start on hands and knees with a flat back (neutral spine). First raise your back as high as is comfortable (cat pose) hold for a few breaths and then drop your back until it’s as hollow as is comfortable for you (cow pose). Hold for a few breaths and then repeat several times.
How will this help my riding?
This exercise helps to loosen the whole back. Having a soft and supple back is very important for being able to ride correctly. We cannot expect our horses to have a soft and supple back if we’re sat on them like a rigid statue made of stone!
What does this exercise target?
The Cat cow pose helps to increase the flexibility of the neck, shoulders and spine. The movement also stretches the muscles of the hips, back, abdomen and chest.
What should I be careful of?
Don’t stretch too far. Make sure you’re warmed up properly before attempting a static stretch like this. Try not to lean forwards or backwards with your upper body.
Before starting any new exercise or training regime, we advise you to consult a physician, doctor, physiotherapist or other expert. The plans and exercises presented here and on the BLACKDOG Equestrian App are for guidance only and they do not offer advice on which you should rely. The App and the Services have not been developed to meet your individual requirements.