Lengthening stride activates which muscle groups in the abdomen and back?

• A. Activation of finger flexors
• B. Activation of abdominal and back extensors
• C. Activation of neck flexors
• D. Activation of iliopsoas only

Answer: (B)

Lengthening the stride during hippotherapy places greater demand on trunk stability and control. The abdomen braces the core to stabilize the pelvis and prevent collapse, while the back extensors (erector spinae) lengthen and extend the spine to keep the chest over the pelvis as the horse’s movement lengthens the gait. This combination helps maintain upright posture and balance through the dynamic ride. The other options don’t fit because they involve forearm flexors, neck flexors, or a hip flexor, which are not the primary muscles recruited to stabilize and extend the trunk during a lengthened stride.