LaCroix Videos - Aqua-Tred
Briefly, to describe the system, it combines a treadmill with temperature controlled water to aid in the therapeutic healing, strengthening, and training of all types of horses. It allows the horse to use the same muscles, tendons, and ligaments that it would while exercising, but without the concussion.
The horse's body weight is reduced by about 40 percent, while contact with the treadmill and working against the water allows sufficient concussion to promote bone density and encourage muscle development.
Over time we've developed an Aqua-Tred program that benefits many different types of injuries and training issues. Race-fit horses can AT to get away from the daily pounding or can just be freshened before their next start. Trainers are often very successful using the AT this way. Other race-fit horses are sent to maintain fitness in a controlled environment while recovering from the wear and tear of training.
Post surgery horses are able to get safe, low impact exercise with or without the Jacuzzi® jets, and more importantly, are helped mentally by having a job. Some horses arrive after an extended time off and have lost most of their muscle tone. They take more time to condition, but have the most dramatic results.
Once a horse is acclimated, we assess two things: how long they work and the speed at which they walk. Like any fitness program, you must use caution, build up time slowly, and pay attention to what the animal is telling you.
It is best to go slowly with a post surgery patient, but with a race fit horse you can move right along. We've found that working at a fast walk is the most effective means of achieving maximum fitness. Not all horses walk at the same pace, and as they get fit you can increase the speed.
The AT can be used for many different purposes, but the benefits of this system enable the equine athlete to be better equipped to withstand the rigors of training and to remain competitive for longer periods of time.
