Maricopa Community Colleges  EQS175   20032-20076 
Official Course Description: MCCCD Approval: 11/26/02
EQS175 20032-20076 L+L 3 Credit(s) 4 Period(s)
Introduction to Equine Massage
Designed to acquaint students with the major muscle groups of the horse and the relationship that exists between the muscular system and equine locomotion. Instruction and practice in basic equine massage techniques designed to aid muscle relaxation.
Prerequisites: None.
Course Note: Course is not designed to train or certify individuals to massage horses on a professional basis.
 
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MCCCD Official Course Competencies:
 
EQS175   20032-20076 Introduction to Equine Massage
1. Identify superficial muscle groups in the horse and understand their functional relationship with one another. (I)
2. Describe the differences and similarities between the human and equine muscular systems. (II)
3. Identify and locate stress points in the horse that relate to specific equine disorders. (III)
4. Describe the bio-mechanics of equine movement. (IV)
5. Distinguish between normal and abnormal equine movement. (IV)
6. Explain muscle contraction and identify and describe methods used to release muscle tension. (V)
7. Explain the relationship between muscle spasms and subsequent abnormal movement. (III-V)
8. Identify and demonstrate massage techniques for each muscle group. (V)
9. Identify and apply basic types of equine massage techniques. (V)
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MCCCD Official Course Outline:
 
EQS175   20032-20076 Introduction to Equine Massage
        1. The Muscular System of the Horse
      A. Front muscle placement and use
      B. Hind muscle placement and use
      C. Inter-relationship of muscle activity
        2. Comparison of Muscular Systems
      A. Human muscular system
      B. Equine muscular system
        3. Stress Points in the Horse
      A. Location
      B. Disorders
        4. The Bio-Mechanics of Equine Locomotion
      A. Forehand
      B. Hindquarters
      C. The language of equine locomotion
        5. Hand-Applied Massage Techniques
      A. Equine massage techniques for individual muscle groups
      B. Muscle "range of motion" and relationship to performance events
      C. Application of massage techniques to various muscle groups
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