Equiband Alternative: Why Riders Switch to CORE by D
Looking for the benefits of elastic-band training with more comfort, more colour, and clearer guidance? This article explains why many riders move from Equiband to CORE by D—and how the method works.
Benefits of CORE by D vs Equiband
- Same training principle: gentle elastic resistance + proprioceptive cues help activate core/postural muscles and improve symmetry.
- Comfort & design: CORE by D uses a more padded saddle pad with a stopedge for a better fit, plus multiple colours (Equiband is only black).
- Price advantage: approximately 120–150 Euro cheaper thanks to direct sales (no resellers).
- Use it daily: prevention, rehab and everyday training—clear, consistent cues your horse understands.
How the method works (in plain terms)
Elastic bands provide gentle, consistent resistance and clear proprioceptive cues. This combination encourages the horse to engage postural and core musculature, organise the body more symmetrically and move with better balance. It’s a simple way to create a meaningful training stimulus across groundwork, hacking, dressage or poles.
Evidence & transparency
- Research exists: Equiband has published studies showing effects on muscle activation and movement patterns when elastic bands are used.
- Context matters: equine sports-science studies are typically smaller in size than pharmaceutical trials—but they support the technique.
- Proven practice: CORE by D builds on this established technique and extensive field experience, and refines comfort, usability and training guidance so riders can apply what already works.
Bottom line: the technique is sound; CORE by D focuses on making it easier, clearer and more comfortable to use—so you’ll actually use it more often.
Equiband vs CORE by D (quick comparison)
| Feature / Function | Equiband | CORE by D |
|---|---|---|
| Saddle pad comfort | Relatively thin, cotton material | Softer, more padded, with a stopedge; better fit |
| Band material | Elastic bands similar to CORE by D | Elastic bands similar to Equiband |
| Colour & design options | Only black | Multiple colours & premium materials |
| Evidence / research basis | Published research available (smaller equine cohorts) | Built on proven practice; no CORE-specific formal studies yet |
| Training philosophy | Primarily rehab | Prevention, rehab, everyday training & variation |
| Educational material | Basic | Comprehensive guides & training |
| Price | Higher via resellers | 120–150 Euro cheaper (direct sales) |
Where CORE by D shines
- Prevention first: build strength, symmetry and balance before problems appear.
- Everyday friendly: quick to put on and take off, so it fits naturally into normal routines.
- For every horse: from Shetland ponies to large horses—dressage, hacking, poles, rehab.
FAQs
Is CORE by D the same as Equiband?
Both use similar elastic bands, but CORE by D offers a more comfortable, more padded saddle pad with a stopedge, more colour options, a better fit, and a complete training concept focused on prevention and variation—at a lower price.
Can I use CORE by D for rehab?
Yes. CORE by D supports rehab, but its core strength and philosophy is preventing injuries by building balance, symmetry and strength in everyday work.
Does CORE by D fit all horses?
Yes—from Shetland ponies to large horses. It’s quick to use and integrates seamlessly with your usual training.
