Keeping horses healthy, understanding their carrying capacity, and truly grasping movement – this is precisely the aim of this unique textbook, unparalleled in its kind. Written by Michael Estermann, veterinarian, osteopath, and fascia therapist, this work takes readers deep into functional anatomy, biomechanics, and therapeutic work with horses.
But it's more than just a textbook. It's a call for more knowledge, more responsibility—and a better relationship with horses.
Why this book is different
Imagine if you could understand how your horse is built. Not just anatomically, but functionally. You could see how movement arises, where blockages begin, and what you can do to resolve them. This book offers exactly that:
A look behind the scenes of the horse's body.
With in-depth knowledge of veterinary medicine, osteopathy, and fascia therapy, Estermann explains step by step how load-bearing capacity is created, the role the arch bridge plays in this, why the long back extensor often does more harm than good—and how you can truly support your horse through targeted techniques, movement exercises, and fascia work.
Selected highlights from the book:
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Chapter 3: The Arched Bridge How a horse learns to carry itself: lifting the chest, straightening the pelvis, lengthening the neck – the three biomechanical steps to healthy posture.
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Chapter 8: The long back extensor: Friend or foe? How its over-tension sabotages your posture – and how you can release it therapeutically.
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Chapter 10: Fascia – the underestimated network The silent control center in the body: fascia as a sensory organ, force transmitter and regeneration aid.
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Chapter 12: Practical Applications From stretching exercises to massage to posture correction: Concrete tools for daily practice – even for non-therapists.
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Chapter 13: Natural Misalignment How to read movement patterns, recognize pelvic misalignment, and counteract it with simple techniques.
Who is this book for?
This book is a must-read for anyone who wants more than just "riding by the book." It's for riders, therapists, trainers, and anyone who wants to not only move their horses, but also understand them . With scientific depth, yet clearly explained – and always close to practical application.
Conclusion: When understanding becomes healing
Healthy horses need knowledge. And they need people willing to take a closer look. This book shows not only the "how" but, above all, the "why" behind healthy exercise. It gives you the tools, the resources, and the awareness to support your horse sustainably.
"A horse should lift its rider , not just endure him." – Mag. Michael Estermann
If you want to delve deeper and sharpen your understanding of load-bearing capacity, posture, and movement, then this book is the ideal starting point.
Read, understand and change now.
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