Researching Bowen and The Competition Horse

RESULTS OF TRIAL

A big thank you to all the owners who allowed their horses to be part of the trial.

Forty eight horses took part in the trial. The horses were not existing clients, nor had they ever had Bowen Therapy before.

The horses were a cross section of competitors, competing at different levels in the following disciplines:

- dressage

- eventing

- endurance

- show jumping

- working equitation

All the horses were checked to have correct hoof balance and tack fit prior to treatment. This was to ensure that any changes in the horse's performance after treatment, was not influenced by discomfort caused directly or indirectly by incorrect tack fit or hoof balance.

Each horse had two Bowen treatments given by myself over a period of two weeks. The horses were ridden daily and some competed during this time.

The owners filled in a simple questionaire (weekly) after the first treatment and up to two weeks after second treatment.  

Each owner had to record changes if any, (ie Horse was; worse, no different, improved or much improved) in the following;

Forwardness, lumbar back swing, relaxation, track up, ease of bend, lateral work, jumping (where applicable), horses attitude, straightness, rhythm, stamina.

RESULTS

Percentage of Owners who recorded that their horses were improved to much improved in the following: 

- More forward going:   98%

- Greater lumbar swing:  94%

- More relaxed:   93%

- Tracking up:     98%

- Ease of bend:   87%

- Improved Lateral Work: 86%

- Improved Jumping (inflight and on flat): 95%

- Improved Demeanor: 90%

- Straightness: 91%

- Improved Rhythm: 84%

- Improved Stamina:   89%  

In total 92% of the owners reported that their horse's were improved to much improved after Bowen Therapy treatment. 

 Below are just a few of the quotes from owners who took part.

- " fantastic, he feels just like a new horse."  SH

- " I always had marks in the 50's at Novice dressage. After treatments my horse now tracks up and my marks are in the 60's. I have been placed twice and my instructor advises me to move up to Elementary level." LH

- " More energy and forwardness. My horse feels like she floats". WM

- "Got a first - never been placed at all, Thank you. I will definitely have Bowen regularly from now on". CM

- "Her jump is more free and more confident. She collects naturally without me having to fight her." VI

- " My horse use to grind his teeth and tense up during lateral work. Now he is more relaxed and willing. Instructor very impressed.".RP