Equine Sports massage

Wilson Meagher Sports Therapy combines the logic and technique of sports massage developed by the late Jack Meagher (pronounced “Mar”) with the practice of an anatomically accurate series of soft tissue techniques, biomechanics and body conditioning developed by Jo-Ann Wilson.  This method has been used at the highest levels of equestrian competition for over 30 years to keep horses feeling their best. The strain and exertion of exercise and work reduce free movement in the horse.    This method identifies stress points in the muscle and then through its techniques, alleviates muscle restriction, tightness and pain. This work is specific to the cause of the muscular problem while treating the entire body.

The Wilson Meagher Method of equine sportsmassage

“She was able to locate and relieve muscle tension in his back and hind. It relieved his pain and hesitancy to move. After his treatment both my dressage teacher, Ellen Eckstein, and I noticed more freedom of movement and a willingness to perform.

-Kristi Whelan, trainer, Carmel Valley, CA

What to expect in a session

​1:Observation: Gait analysis at the walk, focused on the trunk muscles of the body where imbalance, tightness and restriction can be observed.

2.Listening:  Express your concerns and what you feel with your horse; Is your horse harder in one direction, crooked, not coming through, switching leads, heavy in one rein, showing change in behavior, tight back?

3.Technique:  Intuitive palpation and application of the method, treating the specific problem and the whole body.

4.Feel the Change: Ride or I will trot your horse in-hand to reset range of motion and encourage synchronization of body movement. With this method, riding is encouraged afterwards! (But not mandatory.)

Tara Metzner with Davlyn Farms’ Saint

Benefits of this work

  •  Restores and increases range of motion

  • Increases endurance and balance

  • Improves and speeds up recovery time

  • Aids in prevention of injury and loss of mobility

  •  Alleviates pain caused by muscle restriction

  • Improves circulation of blood and lymph

  • Promotes graceful aging and longevity

  • Supports a general sense of well being

  • Promotes harmony and a relaxed mind​​

The Wilson Meagher Method™  has been scientifically researched through a grant awarded by the former American Massage Therapy Association Foundation, currently the Massage Therapy Foundation. These techniques generated significant changes in muscle tissue, improving gait dynamics and an increase in the length of stride. The results of this research can be found here.

Equine Sports Massage -Inquire for rates based on your location

*Reduced rates for multiple horses in a single visit. Show rates vary and include travel fee. I am based in Big Sur, CA and make monthly scheduled visits throughout California; including, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Temecula and Rancho Santa Fe/Del Mar.

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