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An Introduction to Equine Massage Therapy
03/30/2009
With the resurgent interest in alternative medications, equine schools are once again turning to equine massage as a way to help deal with equine ailments.
There are many different types of equine schools that cater to different branches of the horse industry. One area of equine schools that has seen considerable growth in recent years is that of equine massage, sometimes termed “equissage.” While equine massage is an ancient form of animal treatment, it fell out of use in the twentieth century as equine schools focused more and more on chemical and medicinal treatments for equine illness. However, with the resurgent interest in alternative medications, equine schools are once again turning to equine massage as a way to help deal with equine ailments.
Those graduating from equine schools with degrees in equine massage have a bit of a competitive edge in today’s job markets. Equine massage is a cheaper, less expensive option for those who can’t afford veterinary bills and medications. Veterinary equine schools teach there students the benefits of equine massage, such as:
-Enhanced muscle tone and overall level of physical fitness
-Improved range of motion and reduced swelling in joints
-Relief from joint pain and chronically tense
-Expedited healing as nutrients can flow more easily to the muscles
Equine schools teach the same variety of equine massage you can find in a human massage school: muscle therapy, acupuncture, deep tissue, and relaxation massage. Once you leave these equine schools, you can practice equine massage for around $100 an hour. Most equine schools offer 1-, 3-, or 6-month courses to become accredited in equine massage. Some of the top equine schools for massage therapy are:
1) Equissage USA
Equissage USA was the first of the equine schools to teach equine massage. In fact, founder Mary Schreiber claims to have invented equine massage, an ancient art that had been forgotten. Since 1992, Equissage USA has offered a certification in equine sports therapy, the first of the equine schools to offer it. They have the history, the pedigree, and the reputation of being the best of the equine schools in massage therapy
2) EquiTouch
Equitouch is one of the equine schools for massage that is perfect for those who need a more flexible schedule or location. EquiTouch offers home study for students who don’t live in the Colorado area. EquiTouch has more flexibility than other equine schools, but it doesn’t compromise with its reputation: classes are conducted by the Lazy J Bar S Ranch, one of Colorado’s most prestigious equine training programs.
3) Equine Massage/Muscle Therapy Programs
Originally part of the Bancroft School, the EMMT equine school (located in Camden, SC) offer everything from individual classes to full therapeutic certification. Unlike many other equine schools in massage therapy, EMMT offers courses on saddle fit from a therapeutic point of view, making EMMT perfect for those who want to focus their craft on race horses.
There are other local equine schools you can attend to study massage therapy. Once you do, it’s simply a matter of marketing yourself. Many equine schools offer career placement opportunities. Visit ranches and veterinary offices, and as you meet with other equine professionals, be sure to point out the benefits and financial incentives of equine massage.
