Beyond the Saddle: The Impact of Massage on Equine Athletes

Beyond the Saddle: The Impact of Massage on Equine Athletes

When it comes to optimizing the performance of equine athletes, massage therapy is often an overlooked yet powerful tool. To shed light on the impact of equine massage, we spoke with Hannah Duty, owner of Muscle Memory Equine Services LLC located in NW Ohio. Hannah’s passion for helping horses move and feel their best stems from a personal journey with her own horse and has grown into a dedication to improving the lives of performance horses through massage therapy.

How did you get into equine massage therapy?

"My path into equine massage therapy wasn’t something I planned - It grew out of a deep need to help the horses I loved feel and perform their best. I’ve always been fascinated by how a horse’s body works, especially when it comes to finding the root of discomfort or tension that isn’t always obvious. A big part of what led me to massage therapy was my old horse, Bill - he’s since passed, but he was the kind of horse who leaves a mark on your life. He was severely over in the knee, which meant his body was constantly compensating. I did everything I could to keep him comfortable, especially in his later years, and bodywork became a regular part of his care. The more I saw how much it helped him, the more I wanted to understand it. One thing led to another, and soon I was deep into learning massage therapy - not just for him, but for every horse who deserved to feel that same relief. Bill also became my canvas when I started to learn kinesiology taping. He loved the stuff! He’d stand like a statue while I figured out techniques, and I swear he strutted around afterward like he knew he was helping me become better at my craft. He really was the best teacher I could’ve asked for."

What are the main benefits of massage for performance horses?

"Massage helps with everything from increasing circulation and flexibility, to reducing muscle tension and soreness. It supports recovery and can even help improve a horse’s attitude and focus. Think of it like hitting the reset button on their body and sometimes their brain, too! When a horse’s muscles are relaxed and their body is moving freely, they can perform at their best, with more comfort and efficiency. It also helps address those subtle areas of discomfort or restriction that can quietly chip away at their performance over time. Regular bodywork can be the difference between a horse that’s just getting through the work and one that’s truly thriving."

Do you notice any big changes in a horse’s performance after a session?

"Oh, absolutely. I’ve had horses who went from stiff and resistant to fluid and relaxed after just one session. It’s not magic - but it can feel like it. A lot of times, little behaviors that seemed like training issues disappear once their discomfort is addressed. One of my favorite things is watching a horse take that first big “let-down” breath during or after a session. That’s when you know they’re starting to feel better."

How often should performance horses get massages to stay in top shape?

"It depends on their workload, age, and any existing issues, but generally, I recommend every 4-6 weeks for actively competing horses. Some need more frequent work during peak season, while others do well on a maintenance schedule. It’s all about staying ahead of tightness and helping their bodies recover before tension turns into a problem."

What’s something you wish people understood better about equine massage therapy?

"That it’s not just pampering, it’s purposeful care. Massage isn’t a luxury; it’s a tool that supports the entire horse, physically and mentally. It helps improve biomechanics, supports soft tissue health, and creates space for better movement and muscle function. The results aren’t always immediate or dramatic, sometimes the real value is in the small, subtle changes that build over time. Better range of motion, improved symmetry, and even changes in posture can all stem from consistent, intentional bodywork. It’s not about quick fixes - it’s about supporting long-term soundness and performance."

How does massage work alongside other treatments like chiropractic?

"Massage and chiropractic aren’t just complementary, they’re most effective when used together as part of a well-rounded care program. Massage helps release tension in the soft tissue that can pull joints out of alignment or restrict proper movement. When those muscles are relaxed and more balanced, chiropractic adjustments tend to go smoother, hold longer, and be more effective overall.
I’m a huge advocate for chiropractic care, and I always recommend regular veterinary evaluations and working closely with a proactive farrier. Each professional sees the horse through a different lens, and when we all work as a team, the horse benefits from that shared knowledge. Massage fits into that equation by supporting everything else - helping maintain progress, reduce compensation patterns, and keep the horse moving and feeling their best."

Any fun success stories of horses you’ve worked with where massage really made a difference?

"I worked on a barrel horse who kept dropping his shoulder into the first barrel, no matter how well the rider set him up. He was athletic and willing but just couldn’t hold his shape through the turn. After some evaluation, I found a lot of tightness in his shoulders, ribcage, and even through his upper neck, which was affecting his balance and the way he moved into the turn. We focused on releasing that tightness in his shoulders and ribs, along with some neck work to improve his range of motion. After a few sessions, the rider called me and said, “I don’t know what you did, but he actually waited for me going into the turn.” He stayed square, kept his line, and was able to use his front end properly. That’s what I like to hear!"

What advice would you give to horse owners or trainers looking to start using massage for their horses?

"Start with an open mind and find a practitioner who knows their stuff and works with your team - vet, farrier, chiropractor, trainer. Don’t wait until there’s a problem; use massage to help prevent problems in the first place. And watch your horse closely after a session, you’ll often notice subtle changes in how they move, behave, and recover!"

Is there anything new or exciting in the world of equine massage that you’re excited to try?

"Absolutely! I’m always learning, and recently I’ve been diving deeper into advanced fascial release and its impact on biomechanics. I’m also exploring how other supportive techniques, like targeted stretching protocols, can extend the benefits of massage for longer-lasting results. Lately, I’ve also become really interested in saddle fitting and how it ties into overall comfort and performance. It’s something I’m eager to explore more and eventually incorporate into my work, because proper saddle fit is such an important piece of the puzzle. I love how the field keeps evolving, it means I get to keep evolving with it, too!"

✨Client Stories: The Real Impact of Equine Massage✨
Muscle Memory Equine Services clients have experienced firsthand the transformative power of equine massage therapy. From improved performance in the show ring to enhanced comfort and flexibility during training, their stories highlight the difference consistent bodywork can make.

Katelyn & Gecko: "I started incorporating massage into my horse's routine about a year ago after noticing he was consistently stiff through his shoulders and not moving out like he used to. He's a hard-working gelding who always gives 110%, but I could tell he was sore and uncomfortable. Since adding regular massage, his flexibility has noticeably improved, and he's more willing to lift through his back and engage. What I love most is that's it has helped us get ahead of any issues before they turn into setbacks. He's moving better, feeling better, and our rides are more consistent and productive. It's become a crucial part of his maintenance program, and we love Hannah!"

Hailey & Harmony: "My mare has always been a little sensitive, both mentally and physically, and it was tough to find something to help her stay balanced and comfortable. Since starting body work sessions, I've seen a major shift in her overall demeanor and way of going. She's more relaxed in her body, less reactive to touch and grooming, and is finally using herself correctly! Massage has helped her immensely in and out of the saddle. We've had our best show season yet, and I truly believe bodywork has played a big part in that progress."

Rachael & Mazie: Massage has made a huge difference for my horse, who struggles with hind end/lower back weakness and soreness. She has some struggles throughout her body that can cause her to compensate. Monthly massage therapy, Bemer, and kinesiology taping have helped relieve her discomfort, improve her movement, and keep her happy. There was a time when I struggled to keep her fully comfortable, which made it difficult for us to progress in training. Thanks to massage therapy, she’s now thriving. In 2024, we competed at AAQHC where we achieved an NSBA Championship, and a Reserve Congress Championship. So far for 2025, we achieved Top five in both classes at Level One East Championship. Massage has truly been a game changer for my horse's care and performance and will continue to be a part of her routine. Our horses give us so much of themselves physically and mentally, the least we can do is help them feel comfortable in their own bodies, as horse owners that is our job. It's just like taking care of your vehicle, your car needs maintenance done: tire rotation, oil change, fluid top off, etc. Our equine athletes need that same care, especially if we want them "firing on all cylinders efficiently".

If you’re one of Muscle Memory Equine Services clients and would like to share how massage has helped your horse, we’d love to hear from you! Your story could inspire others to discover the benefits of this essential care technique.