Starline Equine Bodywork - podcast cover

Starline Equine Bodywork

Judith Rathbonestarlinebodywork.com

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/starlineequinebodywork
Web - starlinebodywork.com
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Episodes

Understanding Integration Pauses and Processing

In this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast, we dive into the essential concepts of integration pauses and processing in bodywork, exploring their significance for horses. These terms describe critical moments during sessions—whether massage, craniosacral therapy, or other forms of equine bodywork—where practitioners pause to allow the client’s body to respond and adapt to the work. We’ll unpack the difference between processing (the body’s immediate reaction to touch, like a horse y...

Aug 13, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 145

Myofascial Magic – Sustained Pressure vs. True Myofascial Release

Dive into the fascinating world of equine bodywork with our latest podcast episode, where we explore the art and science of myofascial work! In this engaging discussion, we break down the differences between sustained gentle pressure and true myofascial release with relative tissue motion, revealing how each technique can transform your horse’s comfort and mobility. Whether you’re a seasoned equine professional or a devoted horse owner, this episode is packed with insights to help you understand...

Aug 06, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 144

How to Build a Profitable Business in Economic Uncertainty

Saddle up for an inspiring episode with our expert guest, Christa Myers! This week, we’re unpacking practical strategies to build a thriving equestrian business, even in challenging economic times. From stashing away an emergency fund, to diversifying income streams with services like online workshops or bundled offerings, Christa shares how to keep your business galloping forward. We also explore crafting crystal-clear marketing messages to attract loyal clients and low-cost ways to reach them,...

Jul 30, 20251 hr 5 minSeason 1Ep. 143

How Posture Affects Locomotion

Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of equine biomechanics with this 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’...

Jul 23, 202518 minSeason 1Ep. 142

Unraveling Hind End Lameness with Dr. Amy Bennett

Diagnosing hind end lameness in horses can be a complex puzzle, far less straightforward than the telltale head bob of front limb issues. In this engaging episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast, I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Amy Bennett, a veterinarian with a special interest in equine lameness, to guide us through this intricate topic. Together, we explore the key areas where hind end issues commonly arise—from well-known trouble spots like the hocks and stifles to often-overlooked regi...

Jul 16, 202520 minSeason 1Ep. 141

Myofascial Release Techniques You Can Try

Get ready to transform your horse’s comfort and performance with this exciting episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork podcast! I am diving into the world of myofascial release—a game-changing, hands-on technique that targets the fascia, the web-like connective tissue that holds your horse’s body together. Learn how to spot and release fascial restrictions that cause pain, stiffness, or limited movement, all from the comfort of your own barn. From understanding the science behind fascia’s role a...

Jul 09, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 140

The Power of Equine Balance Pads

Ever stepped onto a wobbly balance board and felt your brain scramble to keep you upright? That’s exactly what equine balance pads do for horses! In this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast, I dive into the magic of these foam mats that create a slightly unstable surface under a horse’s hooves. They’re like a brain gym, firing up sensory signals (hello, proprioception!) to boost balance, coordination, and muscle strength. I break down the science, so you’ll understand exactly how the...

Jul 03, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 139

Do This If You Want A Strong Healthy Horse

Get ready to supercharge your horse’s health and performance with our latest Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast episode! I am diving into the magic of combining sternal lifts and lumbar lifts—two dynamic exercises that’ll have your horse moving like a dream. From boosting core strength and spinal mobility to sharpening body awareness and preventing injuries, these science-backed moves are a game-changer for any hands-on horse owner or bodyworker. Whether your horse is a dressage star, a trail budd...

Jun 25, 202518 minSeason 1Ep. 138

Red Light Therapy With EquiGlow Therapeutics

Red light therapy offers exciting potential for horses, with applications ranging from wound healing to muscle recovery and pain relief. Benefits like faster healing, reduced inflammation, and improved performance are supported by preliminary studies and widespread anecdotal use. This topic has me excited to share! Joining me on this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast is Viktoria Hamma from EquiGlow Therapeutics. She was generous enough to sponsor this episode and talk to me about t...

Jun 18, 202541 minSeason 1Ep. 137

Unraveling Leg Length Discrepancy In Horses

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—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’...

Jun 11, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 136

INTERdependence and INTRAdependence In The Musculoskeletal System

Please join me for an insightful journey into the equine musculoskeletal system on this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast. I am diving into how bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments work together like a well-orchestrated symphony—and what happens when one part goes off-key. Whether you’re a bodyworker, trainer, or horse owner, this episode is packed with practical tips to boost your horse’s performance and well-being by understanding the delicate balance of interdependence...

Jun 04, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 135

Does Fascia Store Trauma?

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 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! ...

May 28, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 134

Gen Joyce: Making A Bodywork App

Have you ever met someone so inspirational that you could chat with them all day? That’s Gen Joyce of EquiGate! Join me for this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where Gen tells us about her mindset shift that created an app, and revolutionized our industry. PLEASE CONSIDER RATING, REVIEWING AND FOLLOWING THIS SHOW. This will help us reach more people and more horses, to support their journey and relationship together. LINKS RELATED TO THIS EPISODE: 🌟GET ONE MONTH FREE (AFTER YOU...

May 21, 202540 minSeason 1Ep. 133

Reaction Point Assessment

This is where art meets science in equine bodywork. It’s a whole new level of horsemanship. Imagine being able to feel what your horse is telling you — pinpointing tension, discomfort, or hidden stress before it becomes a bigger problem. Testing specific reaction points on your horse’s body can unlock a deeper understanding of their well-being. Join me for this episode as I dive into the theory and science behind what these points identify. PLEASE CONSIDER RATING, REVIEWING AND FOLLOWING THIS SH...

May 14, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 132

My Horse Has Kissing Spine- Now What? with Dr Tovah Caldwell

If your horse has a recent diagnosis of “Kissing Spine”, I’ll bet you are thinking “Now what!?!?”. In the past there has been so much stigma attached to this very common issue. It’s time we talk openly about what can be done to help these horses. Owners need a place to turn to get information without fear of misplaced judgement. This episode is intended to be just that. Join me for this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where I talk to special guest Dr Tovah Caldwell of Full Circle...

May 07, 20251 hrSeason 1Ep. 131

How To Increase ROM Fast

Non-habitual motion of joints can instantly increase usable range of motion (ROM) in horses (or any animal, including humans) due to the interplay between the nervous system, joint mechanics, and soft tissue responses. This phenomenon isn’t about permanently altering the joint’s structure but rather "unlocking" existing capacity that’s typically restricted by neural and muscular habits Join me for this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where I discuss this powerful tool for trainer...

Apr 30, 202521 minSeason 1Ep. 130

Neuromechanical Training For Horses

Neuromechanical training refers to a holistic approach that integrates the nervous system (neuro) and the mechanical aspects of movement (mechanical) to optimize physical performance, coordination, and recovery. It’s grounded in the idea that the brain, nerves, and muscles work as a unified system, and training should enhance their communication and efficiency. Join me for this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where I talk about these exercises for horses, their focus on improving...

Apr 23, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 129

Why Do Muscles Twitch?

Have you ever noticed muscles twitching when you are doing a palpation assessment on a horse? These are fasciculations, and they tell us a lot about a horse’s well being and muscle health. Join me for this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where I talk about the science behind this phenomenon, and what it means for your horse, and the type of bodywork intervention you need. PLEASE CONSIDER RATING, REVIEWING AND FOLLOWING THIS SHOW. This will help us reach more people and more horse...

Apr 16, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 128

Safe Horse with Jay Duke

Great horsemanship is the way to ensure horses remain safe. Education. Change making. That’s the important stuff. Sensationalist posts, blaming, and bullying are not the way to make a difference within our sport, or in the perception of our sport. The Safe Horse Community has become an important movement that I encourage all equine professionals to be a part of! Joining me on the episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast is Jay Duke- creator of Safe Horse. Jay discusses his positive and im...

Apr 09, 202550 minSeason 1Ep. 127

Acupuncture with Dr. Molson

Acupuncture has always fascinated me. How can such a superficial mechanical stimulation work so effectively on the central nervous system? In this episode I chat with expert equine acupuncturist Dr Sam Molson. She explains the science behind acupuncture, when to use it, and how to integrate it into your horse’s bodywork routine. PLEASE CONSIDER RATING, REVIEWING AND FOLLOWING THIS SHOW. This will help us reach more people and more horses, to support their journey and relationship together. LINKS...

Apr 02, 202550 minSeason 1Ep. 126

Therapeutic Goals

Having a clear idea of what your physiological or therapeutic goal will be helps to guide your choice of manual inputs. Therapeutic goals are different than desired outcomes. In fact, they dictate your course of action to reach the desired outcome. This intentionality and specificity has made me a more focused practitioner, all thanks to a fantastic instructor I met during a continuing education course. PLEASE CONSIDER RATING, REVIEWING AND FOLLOWING THIS SHOW. This will help us reach more peopl...

Mar 26, 20258 minSeason 1Ep. 125

“Magic” For Sore Backs

While most owners and practitioners are quick to recognize back pain in horses, they don’t realize it’s a symptom of a bigger issue. Thus, when they direct their attention at the back alone, they don’t get impactful or lasting bodywork results. In this episode I chat about the real issues causing unresolved back discomfort, bodywork moves I have developed as a part of The Starline™️ Method, how they will help you simplify the inputs you make in bodywork sessions and tackle lumbar back pain in ho...

Mar 19, 202517 minSeason 1Ep. 124

Training For Success With Jay Duke

“You are always leaning”, Jay Duke said to me as he was talking about watching other top trainers in the warm up ring. What an amazing and humble approach from a trainer of his level! Jay Duke is a former Canadian Equestrian Team member, top trainer and course designer, who has one of the most positive approach to training of anyone I have ever spoken to. His depth of knowledge and patient manner has made him a sought after clinician. Jay and I sat down to chat about how we can all develop ourse...

Mar 12, 202546 minSeason 1Ep. 123

Holistic Nutrition With Trina Lompa

We spend a lot of time perfecting the diets of our beloved horses. But what about the riders, and caretakers of the animals? Often long work hours, life with a mobile business, and stress take over and we neglect our own health. On this week’s episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast, I chat with Trina Lompa. As a holistic nutritionist and live blood analyst, Trina focuses on root cause health, nutrition solutions for gut health, hormones and energy balance. Her easy to follow and practic...

Mar 05, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 122

The Art Of Assessment

“If you could learn anything from another bodyworker, what would it be?” I asked this question in an Instagram poll and was just shocked by the responses. Lots of people wanted to hear about Assessments. Not a single person wanted to hear about palpation. I break down assessment in this episode, and why touch-based assessment is key to successful bodywork sessions. Oh, and grab my free guide “Assessing Your Horse’s Back: A Touch-Based Approach”. I break down EXACTLY how I assess a horse’s back, ...

Feb 26, 202510 minSeason 1Ep. 121

The 5 P’s Of The Horse Industry

We’ve all heard the 5 P’s of Equestrian Sport- “Prior Practice Promotes Perfect Performance”. But the reality is that isn’t the case for most people who aim to reach the top of one of the most cost prohibitive sports in the world. This has always troubled me, and has become the reason why I do much of what I do. Learn why I have become passionate about bridging the gap between talent and opportunity in our sport, and why I give away so much information that I have learned. PLEASE CONSIDER RATING...

Feb 19, 20257 minSeason 1Ep. 120

Poll Tension

If your horse feels like it’s heavy in one rein, pops its shoulder wide or has started to stop at jumps, the issue could be poll tension. Join me for this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where I take a deep dive into the symptoms and causes of poll tension, and some of my bodywork techniques to address it. PLEASE CONSIDER RATING, REVIEWING AND FOLLOWING THIS SHOW. This will help us reach more people and more horses, to support their journey and relationship together. LINKS RELATE...

Feb 12, 202511 minSeason 1Ep. 119

Branding Photography With Seafind Photography

Your bodywork business will stand out and grab people’s attention IF you have the correct imagery. Chelsea Findlater of Seafind Photography is business branding photography expert. Her ability to capture moments and what makes each person unique is a remarkable talent. Join me for this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where Chelsea walks us through branding photoshoots. She reveals what types of shots each business should have, how often they should be refreshed, what to look for ...

Feb 05, 202537 minSeason 1Ep. 118

Today’s Workout For Tomorrow’s Competition

This episode is based on a listener question about prepping her dressage horse for the demand of show season without overloading the horse’s tissues. I chat about assessing weaknesses, planning exercises to overcome them and how to gauge where the point of fatigue/ failure is. I also reveal my 2 secret tips for a body “re-set” to help horses maintain correct form in workouts while we are increasing fitness levels. We love listener questions! Feel free to send us topics you want to hear more of. ...

Jan 29, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 117

Creating Consistent Equine Athletes

One of the toughest parts about performance horses is not attaining greatness, it’s maintaining greatness. There are a few key things that you can do to improve the likelihood that your horse will stay on track and produce more consistent performances Join me for this episode of the Starline Equine Bodywork Podcast where I map out my favourite strategies for consistency in sport horses. PLEASE CONSIDER RATING, REVIEWING AND FOLLOWING THIS SHOW. This will help us reach more people and more horses...

Jan 22, 20257 minSeason 1Ep. 116
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