Real Rider Resource
Why Horses Get Stiff On One Side
Every horse has a “good side,” but when stiffness becomes obvious, resistant, or one-sided during bending or transitions, it usually means that side of the body feels harder, weaker, or less comfortable to use.
What Riders Notice First
- Horse bends easily one way but braces the other
- One rein feels heavy while the other feels empty
- Canter transitions easier on one lead
- Horse falls in or out on circles only one direction
One sided stiffness is often your horse saying
“This direction feels harder for my body.”
Common Causes
- Back or ribcage tension
- Old injuries or compensation patterns
- Uneven hoof balance
- Saddle loading one side more
- General weakness or lack of symmetry
Quick Rider Checks
- Run your hands down both sides of the back
- Check if saddle shifts or bridges to one side
- Watch straight lines — does one hip drift
- Ask vet or body worker about past injuries
How Draw It Out® Fits In
Riders support comfort and symmetry using: Draw It Out® 16oz Gel on both sides of the back and ribcage Draw It Out® Concentrate for post-work recovery CryoSpray Cooling Body Brace after tough sessions MasterMudd™ EquiBrace for deeper soft tissue areas with vet guidance
Want the full guide?
Get deeper causes, symmetry routines, and red flags to watch.
