Starline Equine Bodywork

Judith Rathbone

Our mission is to inspire and to motivate, and give you tools for a better life with horses. This podcast is intended to give you takeaways to apply to your own life- whether you're a horse owner seeking more, a bodywork practitioner, or even an aspiring one. In this podcast you will meet our host, Judith Rathbone. For most of the last decade she’s been a full time equine bodywork practitioner, a renowned sports specialist, an author and a bodywork educator. During the course of this podcast she will lead deep dive discussions into what she has learned from clients, top bodyworkers and vets in the industry, and unpack some of the most up to date and groundbreaking research into equine physiology, fitness and tissue training. Connect with us:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/starlineequinebodyworkWeb - starlinebodywork.com

  1. 1d ago

    Does Fascia Remember?

    The phrase “fascia remembers trauma” is often used in alternative medicine, bodywork, and somatic therapy to suggest that the body’s fascial tissue (a connective tissue network surrounding muscles, organs, and bones) can store emotional or physical trauma, impacting health and movement. Join me for this fantastic favourite episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where I look at the scientific evidence to support claims both for and against whether fascia can store trauma. I can’t wait to hear what you think! LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE: Join the Starline™️ Method Online Skill Accelerator: Equine Reaction Points Join the Starline™️Method Online Skill Accelerator: Tackling Lumbar Pain In Horses Connect with us: Instagram - @starlineequinebodywork Pinterest - https://pin.it/7kvSCpt Website - starlinebodywork.com DISCLAIMER: The ideas expressed in this podcast are opinions only, and are not substitutes for proper veterinary care, veterinary medicine and other forms of bodywork. The opinions are not intended to be prescriptive or diagnostic in nature.

  2. Aug 12

    Are We Working With The Nervous System Or The Body?

    In this episode we explore how the brain, nervous system, and body work together to shape a horse’s movement and performance.  Many common challenges such as tight shoulders, restricted hind ends, or persistent asymmetry run deeper than the muscles and joints we can feel. The brain constantly predicts what is safe and possible based on past experiences, sometimes creating protective patterns that linger long after an injury has healed. Through thoughtful bodywork we gently introduce new, comfortable sensory information so the brain can update its internal map, allowing freer, more confident movement.  At the same time the nervous system serves as the vital communication network that governs muscle tone, proprioception, and the balance between tension and relaxation, while mechanical restrictions in joints, fascia, and tissues often respond best when we also address the neurological patterns that maintain them. Great bodywork considers the whole horse, including fascial connections, internal influences, inflammation, daily management, and even emotional holding patterns that can reinforce protective postures.  When we partner with these interconnected systems we help horses move with greater ease, reduce compensatory habits, and feel safer in their bodies, which translates into improved performance and overall well-being.  For practitioners this bigger picture underscores the skilled, science-informed nature of the work and helps clients understand its lasting value. For owners it highlights the importance of choosing thoughtful practitioners and combining bodywork with sound farriery, saddle fit, training, and lifestyle choices that support natural movement.  By respecting the brain’s predictive power, supporting the nervous system, and addressing structural needs, we give our equine partners the best chance to thrive. LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE: Join the Starline™️ Method Online Skill Accelerator: Equine Reaction Points Join the Starline™️ Method Online Skill Accelerator: Tackling Lumbar Pain In Horses Connect with us: Instagram - @starlineequinebodywork Pinterest - https://pin.it/7kvSCpt Website - starlinebodywork.com DISCLAIMER: The ideas expressed in this podcast are opinions only, and are not substitutes for proper veterinary care, veterinary medicine and other forms of bodywork. The opinions are not intended to be prescriptive or diagnostic in nature.

  3. Aug 5

    Are Your Horse's Legs The Same Length?

    Ever noticed your horse moving a bit off-kilter, like one side’s playing catch-up? Dive into this juicy episode where we unpack Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD) in horses. This is a sneaky issue that could be throwing your horse’s balance out of whack!  From spotting subtle signs like uneven hips or quirky hoof angles to tackling high/low syndrome with practical tips, we’ve got the science-backed scoop to keep your equine partner striding smoothly. Whether you’re a hands-on horse owner or a bodywork pro, you’ll learn how to identify LLD, why it matters for your horse’s performance, and easy exercises to boost symmetry.  Don’t miss this fan favourite episode! LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE: Join the Starline™️ Method Online Skill Accelerator: Equine Reaction Points Connect with us: Instagram - @starlineequinebodywork Pinterest - https://pin.it/7kvSCpt Website - starlinebodywork.com DISCLAIMER: The ideas expressed in this podcast are opinions only, and are not substitutes for proper veterinary care, veterinary medicine and other forms of bodywork. The opinions are not intended to be prescriptive or diagnostic in nature.

  4. Jul 29

    The Secret Language Of Horses

    Horses speak a quiet, sophisticated language of subtle signals that reveal tension, referred pain, and discomfort long before obvious lameness or behavioural issues appear. As prey animals, they evolved to mask weakness, so what looks like “naughtiness” or laziness is often a carefully guarded message that something hurts. By learning to notice these tells (especially through gentle responses at key anatomical Reaction Points™️) you can better understand what’s happening inside your horse’s body and respond with greater care. Recognizing common signs of protective nervous-system responses early allows you to support your horse’s welfare, performance, and comfort, strengthening the partnership in the process. Tuning into this secret language transforms everyday observation into a powerful way of listening, and of helping your horse feel truly understood. LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE: Join the Starline™️ Method Online Skill Accelerator: Equine Reaction Points Connect with us: Instagram - @starlineequinebodywork Pinterest - https://pin.it/7kvSCpt Website - starlinebodywork.com DISCLAIMER: The ideas expressed in this podcast are opinions only, and are not substitutes for proper veterinary care, veterinary medicine and other forms of bodywork. The opinions are not intended to be prescriptive or diagnostic in nature.

  5. Jul 22

    Movement Made By Posture

    Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of equine biomechanics with this fan favourite episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast! We’re breaking down how a horse’s static posture (the way they stand at rest) reveals critical clues about their movement, or locomotive posture. For bodyworkers and savvy horse owners, this episode is your guide to understanding how conformation, muscle balance, and skeletal structure shape a horse’s performance. From spotting subtle alignment cues to predicting how they’ll move in the arena, we’ll share practical insights to sharpen your skills and elevate your work with horses. Plus, we’ve got a free Posture and Performance Guide waiting for you right here. Join us as we explore key static posture cues, like leg alignment, topline shape, and hoof balance, and see how they translate to fluid gaits or potential challenges in motion. We’ll unpack the biomechanics behind stride length and propulsion, and dive into the physiology of muscles and joints that power every step. Whether you’re assessing a dressage star or a trail companion, you’ll learn to connect the dots between a horse’s stance and their performance, spotting issues like uneven strides or lameness risks before they escalate. Don’t miss this juicy episode packed with actionable tips to boost your equine bodywork game.. and grab your free guide Posture and Performance guide and let’s get started! LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE: FREE: Posture and Performance Guide Join the Starline™️ Method Online Skill Accelerator: Equine Reaction Points Free assessment guide for your horse’s back Connect with us: Instagram - @starlineequinebodywork Pinterest - https://pin.it/7kvSCpt Website - starlinebodywork.com DISCLAIMER: The ideas expressed in this podcast are opinions only, and are not substitutes for proper veterinary care, veterinary medicine and other forms of bodywork. The opinions are not intended to be prescriptive or diagnostic in nature.

  6. Jul 15

    Understanding Adductor Issues In Horses

    In this episode, we explore often overlooked adductor issues in the equine hind limb and how these medial thigh muscles create far reaching effects through the pelvic limb, hip joint, back, and overall performance. The adductor group plays a vital role in drawing the limb toward the midline, stabilizing the hip, and supporting balanced movement alongside the abductors and other key muscles like the gluteals and hamstrings.  When these muscles become tight, weak, or imbalanced, it can lead to uneven loading on the hip, pelvic asymmetries, shortened strides, medial limb tracking, reduced engagement, and compensatory tension that travels upward through the sacroiliac joint and lumbar back, ultimately affecting everything from daily comfort to jumping bascule and dressage collection. Learn to palpate for left and right differences in tone and tightness, watch for signs like uneven stance, pelvic tilt, or reluctance in lateral work, and support your horse with simple bodywork and groundwork exercises. These approaches invite better mobility, symmetry, and throughness without force, helping restore fluid gait and a supple back.  LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE: Tackling Lumbar Pain In Horses Grab your FREE assessment guide for your horse’s back Connect with us: Instagram - @starlineequinebodywork Pinterest - https://pin.it/7kvSCpt Website - starlinebodywork.com DISCLAIMER: The ideas expressed in this podcast are opinions only, and are not substitutes for proper veterinary care, veterinary medicine and other forms of bodywork. The opinions are not intended to be prescriptive or diagnostic in nature.

  7. Jul 8

    When Stretching Sabotages

    Today’s fan favourite episode is a bit of a hot topic, and I know it’s going to stir up some questions. That’s exactly why we need to talk about it more! We’re diving into the science behind our warm-up routines with horses and why what we’ve always been told about stretching might actually be working against us. This information completely changed how I approach warm-ups with my own horses, and I’m confident it’s going to give you a lot to think about too. Before you ask your bodyworker for stretching homework, you need to consider that recent science shows that pre-workout static stretching can do more harm than good. Stretching does exactly what we think it does! It temporarily loosens muscles and the tendons that go with them. And that may be the last thing we want to do right before asking our horses to work. Connect with us: Instagram - @starlineequinebodywork Pinterest - https://pin.it/7kvSCpt Website - starlinebodywork.com DISCLAIMER: The ideas expressed in this podcast are opinions only, and are not substitutes for proper veterinary care, veterinary medicine and other forms of bodywork. The opinions are not intended to be prescriptive or diagnostic in nature.

  8. Jul 1

    Managing Equine Athletes With Dr Bri Henderson

    In this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork podcast, we welcome Dr. Bri Henderson, a sports medicine veterinarian with extensive experience treating equine athletes.  Dr. Henderson brings a proactive, preventative perspective to the conversation, focusing on how horsemen and bodywork professionals can support horses before clinical issues arise. Drawing from her daily work with performance horses and the injuries she commonly sees, she shares practical strategies for keeping equine athletes sound, capable, and competitive while minimizing the need for lengthy rehabilitation. Together we explore key pillars of proactive management: optimal footing, effective stress reduction techniques, thoughtful hoof management, and targeted preparation of tissues for sport-specific demands.  Blending current science and research with time-honored horsemanship, this discussion offers actionable insights designed to enhance longevity and performance. Whether you’re a fellow equine bodywork professional or a dedicated horse owner invested in your athlete’s long-term well-being, you’ll come away with fresh perspectives and practical tools to apply in your own programs. LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE: Get In Touch With Dr Bri Henderson/ Rivendell Equine Veterinary Services Tackling Lumbar Pain In Horses Grab your FREE assessment guide for your horse’s back Grab the Book! Grab Premium Canadian Equine Kinesiology Tape Connect with us: Instagram - @starlineequinebodywork Pinterest - https://pin.it/7kvSCpt Website - starlinebodywork.com DISCLAIMER: The ideas expressed in this podcast are opinions only, and are not substitutes for proper veterinary care, veterinary medicine and other forms of bodywork. The opinions are not intended to be prescriptive or diagnostic in nature.

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About

Our mission is to inspire and to motivate, and give you tools for a better life with horses. This podcast is intended to give you takeaways to apply to your own life- whether you're a horse owner seeking more, a bodywork practitioner, or even an aspiring one. In this podcast you will meet our host, Judith Rathbone. For most of the last decade she’s been a full time equine bodywork practitioner, a renowned sports specialist, an author and a bodywork educator. During the course of this podcast she will lead deep dive discussions into what she has learned from clients, top bodyworkers and vets in the industry, and unpack some of the most up to date and groundbreaking research into equine physiology, fitness and tissue training. Connect with us:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/starlineequinebodyworkWeb - starlinebodywork.com

Information

  • Creator
    Judith Rathbone
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    199
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Starline Equine Bodywork
  • Show Website
    Starline Equine Bodywork

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