When we designed the Equiband Pro System, our goal was to produce a tool that was accessible, effective, and easy-to-use for horses and horse owners across every circumstance and living situation. In other words, we wanted the best of the best for your four-legged best friend!
In this blog, our aim is to make fitting your bands even easier by providing anatomical landmarks that can help you to confirm that you are on the right track! If this is your first time using the Equiband Pro System, please also refer to this fitting guide, which will help you in calculating the band tension measurements. And, for anyone – new or seasoned – using the Equiband Pro System, this guide is intended as a reference for further optimization.
Enjoy!
Landmarks for Fitting the Abdominal Band
The main anatomical structure that will help you fit the Abdominal (AB) Band is the ribcage.
First, find your horse’s last rib. For a general idea of where to start finding the last rib, see this image below.
Next, palpate cranially (forward) about 3 ribs. This is the approximate ideal location of the Abdominal Band. Just remember that the AB Band will lie flat and straight down, at a slanted angle that follows the direction of the ribs.
It is also important to remember that each horse’s back length varies. Does your horse have a short, long, or average back?
In longer-backed horses, the band will lie a little further forward (towards the horse’s head). In shorter-backed horses, you will want to ensure that the band is neither too far forward or too far back.
Landmarks for Fitting the Hindquarter Band
The Hindquarter (HQ) Band can sometimes feel more challenging to fit, but do not be discouraged! Sometimes, it requires a bit of experimentation and adjustment, but we are here to assist.
First, always make sure your horse is standing squarely under himself. If the hind legs are extended backwards or placed too far forward under the horse,, it will skew your band placement, and most likely result in the band sliding up during movement.
Find the “dip” in your horse’s back legs by following the hamstring down. This is the ideal spot for the Hindquarter Band to sit.
Measure side-to-side (and use our Fitting Guide) to find the optimal tension. If the band is too loose, it will likely slip down over the hock as the horse moves. If the HQ Band slips, ask your horse to stop so you can readjust.
Remember, every horse is an individual, with its own unique conformation and movement patterns. For this reason, the HQ Band may move higher up during work. This is ok! Just make sure that the band stays below the stifle and above the hocks, more or less in the dip.
If you are a Western Equiband System user, place the Equiband pad directly on the horse’s back, NOT on top of the Western saddle pad. Many times, the HQ band will slide up if the Equiband pad is placed over the Western pad.
Finally, if you are using the bands with a surcingle, ensure that the pad is securely attached, and that it does not slip back. If so, the AB AND HQ bands are both more likely to slip. In this case, it is advisable to use a saddle (without stirrups), to hold the pad in its optimal place, instead of using the surcingle.
You are doing a wonderful thing by using the Equiband Pro System in your horse’s conditioning program. Use this guide and our measurement tools for success, and you will be on your way to a stronger core for your horse in no time!
If you would like to receive personal advice, please reach out to our team of equine experts at support@equicoreconcepts.com.
