Horse riding, also known as equestrianism, is a moderate intensity exercise. Horse riding engages many of the body’s main muscles, which means many chances for injury.
A common issue for horse riders is over-exercised core muscles which leads to an imbalance in the low back. Horse riders also have unique muscle requirements especially the leg, hip, abdominal, shoulder and back muscles. Shoulder injuries and soft tissue damage are very common and the joints in the lower body, particularly the hips, knees and ankles can take some serious impact while riding because of the repetitive and persistently forceful vibrations placed on them.
As there are so many muscle groups and opportunities for injury, there are various preparation and aftercare methods recommended by medical professionals and therapists. Warming up and stretching is always advised. But Simple stretching cannot properly warm those muscles up.
A massage therapy is an alternate way of warming up and stretching horse rider’s muscles. Regular massage treatments can help keep horse rider’s muscles flexible and relaxed. 
A massage therapist can help identify, address and relieve the issues that might be affecting your ride. Stiff, tight muscles often lead to injuries and a massage is known to relax them, so it can reduce the risks of injuries. Massage therapy also can help you achieve better balance, boost control and a more relaxed seat as a rider. By improving body awareness, a massage can help improve your concentration and bond with the horse, which results in a more enjoyable ride for both of you.
Massage therapy has a lot of positive effect on muscle recovery and boosting athletic performance. The key to getting the most from your massage program is not to wait until you’re tired or injured. Massage therapy should be a regular part of your schedule for safe and enjoyable horse riding.
Do you need a massage? – 
Call Oberon Remedial Massage at 0438 042 153 or visit our website www.oberonmassage.com

1. Colder Weather Causes Muscle Tension
If you have been outside in the cold for work a sports event, when you come home and your body warms up, you may notice that your neck, shoulders and even your glutes are sore. In cold conditions, the body tenses up in defence and if you are exposed for a long period of time in cold temperature, that muscle tension can remain long after you are back in a warmer environment. Massage therapy during the colder months is a great way to release the tension you may experience during this time.
2. You get SAD during winter 
You may be noticed that you start to feel depressed as the seasons turn from warm to cold. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a real thing and it can cause anyone to feel the effects of the winter blues as the nights get longer, the days get shorter and the weather gets gloomy.
Massage encourages positive changes in the endocrine system where hormones are created. These changes decrease cortisol levels (stress related hormone) & increase oxytocin levels (happy hormone) leading to the release of serotonin and endorphins, relieving the stress and enhancing your mood.
3. Boost your immune system
Being out in the cold really might make you catch a cold and flu. Massage therapy can help your body fight cold by boosting your immune system. Massage therapy increases lymph flow which fights off infections and bacteria, boosting your immune system during the cold and flu season!
4. Massage helps dry skin
As the humidity drops in winter the cold, winter air makes the water in your skin evaporate quicker, making your skin drier. Massage therapy is proven to improve skin hydration during these dry winter months. Oils and lotions used in massage contain healthy amounts of vitamin E, which your skin will absorb better through circulatory motion, leaving your skin feeling nourished and hydrated!
Do you need a massage?