Equine Massage With Mel Hitchcock

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, I’m sitting down with Mel, an equine massage therapist whose journey in the horse world started early — from caring for horses at 13 to studying biblical counseling with a minor in equine studies, and eventually building a career centered around helping horses feel and perform better. Mel shares how her time as a working student in Pennsylvania shaped her understanding of the importance of grooming, muscle care, and truly knowing your horse’s body. We dive into how she transitioned into equine massage therapy, her love for dressage, and why bodywork plays such a critical role across all disciplines — from performance horses to broodmares. We talk about: How tension in areas like the neck and jaw impacts the entire horse The connection between soreness, weakness, and performance Why posture and balance matter just as much for the rider as the horse And how touch is one of the most powerful ways we communicate with our horses Mel also shares her approach to preventing injuries, her thoughts on supplements, and why taking care of your horse should always be a team effort — not a one-size-fits-all solution. This episode is a reminder that understanding your horse’s body goes far beyond riding — and that sometimes the smallest details make the biggest difference in their comfort and performance.