Why Your Horse Hollows Their Back Under Saddle
Excerpt: If your horse braces their back and throws their head up under saddle, they’re trying to tell you something. Let’s decode that message and fix it from the root.
What Hollowing Looks Like
- High head carriage with inverted neck
- Rigid topline and tight back muscles
- Short, choppy strides with little engagement
- Resistance to transitions or collection
Common Causes of Hollowing
- Poor saddle fit creating pressure points
- Back or SI pain, often from previous injuries
- Weak core or lack of proper conditioning
- Heavy hands or inconsistent rider balance
How to Support a Soft, Round Back
- Check saddle fit with a qualified fitter
- Use Draw It Out® Gel or MasterMudd™ EquiBrace™ on the back pre-ride
- Incorporate long-and-low exercises on the lunge and under saddle
- Strengthen with hill work and pole exercises
- Ride with light hands and soft cues to encourage stretch
Final Thoughts: Ride for Comfort First
Hollowing isn’t a training flaw—it’s a survival response. Start by addressing comfort and strength, and your horse will begin to carry themselves with softness and pride.
Round backs come from real relief—not force.