METHODS & CASE STUDIES

Objectives: Safety, Performance and Health

The Hegeman Methods of Balance Breaking™ and Equine Muscle Therapy™ are an adapted form of resistance training. The concepts are best compared to human exercise programs such as Palates and/or a workout on a Bow Flex. The Methods are specifically designed to target the core muscle groups of each balance point or circle. It is the isolation of these core muscle groups that allow Balance Breaking™ trainers to address the individual needs of each animal thus fortifying shortcomings due to injury or confirmation. Balance Breaking™ and Equine Muscle Therapy™ are equally as effective on gaited horses as on non-gaited animals. A two month session of Balance Breaking™ runs $750 a month along with a $250 boarding fee. Equine Muscle Therapy™ costs $900 to $1,300 a month depending upon the condition and needs of the animal.

The Hegeman Method™ also offers a one to two month finished riding class, which is an addendum to Balance Breaking™ and Equine Muscle Therapy™, at $750 a month. A one month option teaches the horse equitation skill sets required of a beginning mount. The two month option takes the horse to a intermediate level. Each option is detailed for a chosen discipline in either english or western. Finished riders are contracted by the Hegeman Methods™ and may or not be certified Hegeman Method™ trainers.

The programs breakdown down into a series of levels. Each one increasing the amount of resistance and required dexterity. Horses graduating from either program have a complete foundation of movement as well as muscle. The exercises both teach and reinforce individual leg placement. Muscle allows the animal to move. Dexterity allows the animal to execute skills. When effectively and effortlessly executing skills, a learning environment is achieved and confidence soars. With the Hegeman Method™, every aspect of a horse's preliminary development is fulfilled.

After years of research, supported by field studies, Jenn Hegeman developed a series of exercises so exact that complete development is achieved in a mere two months. Horses that never wore a halter can be started. Within 24 lessons they are completely capable of carrying a rider and ready to learn a discipline. Horses being re-broken can sometimes graduate in only 12 lessons. Every horse finishes with complete use and knowledge of their hindquarters. We guarantee collection from the very first step.

Special equipment has been designed to ensure the highest level of safety for the animal. Anodized aluminum beams provides an ideal deterrent instead of the traditional heavy impact wood poles during schooling. Boundary affirming halters enforce exact placement and are corrective yet kind in reinforcement. Timing is narrowed to achieve the greatest results with the least amount of stress.

Graduating an animal as fast as possible is the objective. For only then can their greatest achievement begin in their chosen career. Unlike indeterminate training programs, The Hegeman Methods™ are guaranteed to reach desired results for an individual animal in one or two sessions. Each session is a series of 12 lessons. Training programs are modified to fit individual needs and meet the demands of their chosen discipline. Each owner is provided with a copy of their horses program and updated weekly on progress.

Mo Age: 6 Breed: TW Discipline: Show / Pleasure Sessions: 2 Lessons: 24 Type: Balance Breaking™ Results After concluding the Hegeman Balance Breaking™ Program, Mo took 6 ribbons in FOSH show including Grande Champion English and Grande Champion Western. "After Balance Breaking™, I suddenly had the horse I had always wanted. His gaits are better and more consistent than I'd ever hoped." — Dr. Charm Wright, DVM

Lucky Age: 13 Breed: Missouri Fox Trotter Discipline: Show / Pleasure Owner: Verna Nielsen Sessions: 2 Lessons: 24 Type: Balance Breaking™ Results Lucky was at 80% of program completion. With continued riding and reinforcing muscle memory, Lucky is expected to recover 100%. He is expected to go back into the show ring summer of 2005. "After two surgeries on each of his front knees and a sabbatical of almost two years, Lucky was almost completely lame. After two months of physical therapy, we are now riding Lucky again on trails. He never Fox Trotted this good." — Verna Nielsen