Equine Massage Academy
The ONLY Horse and Rider Equine Massage Academy in the United States!
Why Choose Geary Whiting's Academy?
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Emphasis on TEAM CONCEPT: addressing the needs of both horse and rider.
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An amazing learning experience at our IN-PERSON ACADEMY in Paso Robles, California.
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ACADEMY vs SCHOOL…a school teaches skills, but an academy transforms lives.
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Graduates will possess all the tools necessary to launch their own equine massage business.
“I have seen an increase in my strength and mobility as a professional athlete. My body and my horses say thank you to Geary!
If you are serious about your education in the world of performance horses, Geary is the best in the business!!”
Sandy Collier, NRCHA Hall of Fame Inductee
Take the next step towards helping horses and yourself, and earn a certification in the equine massage field while you’re at it!
Tucked away in Paso Robles’ picturesque wine country, Geary Whiting’s Equine Massage Academy provides a cozy, hometown vibe for an engaging and transformative learning journey.
Academy vs. School
Geary Whiting’s Equine Massage Academy transforms lives through comprehensive, immersive education. Our academy stands alone as the only program in the U.S. dedicated to both horse and rider, blending over 40 years of expertise in shiatsu massage, fitness, and nutrition. Unlike basic schools, this academy delivers a holistic curriculum, hands-on training, and personalized mentorship in an inspiring environment.
Graduates emerge empowered to enhance equine performance and build thriving careers, making Geary’s academy the definitive choice.
Graduate Success
Graduated students from our equine massage program are often eager to share the wonderful successes they have on their own! Click below to read some graduate letters.
Comprehensive Services by Geary Whiting
The Academy
Equine Massage Academy
In-person, online, and hometown academy options for an inspiring learning experience to fit your needs.
Schedule Massage
Equine & Animal Massage
Make an appointment today and help your horse (or other animal) achieve peak performance!
Book a Clinic
Sharing Knowledge
Half-day or full-day equine clinics tailored to suit the education that you are looking for!
Teaching Engagements
Teaching Life Lessons
Equine care, human and horse fitness and nutrition, and what it means to be a man in today’s world.
A Program that Will Change Your Relationship with Horses
Geary Whiting’s Equine Massage Academy offers more than just learning to massage horses—it completely transforms your relationship with them. Drawing from my experience adapting shiatsu massage for horses in 1995 and guiding students with little to no horse-handling confidence, I’ve seen many lives change profoundly. This isn’t a typical certification course; it’s a journey that equips you to make a lasting impact on horses and their owners. Join our academy today to master equine massage and experience the thrill of connecting with horses in a way you never thought possible.
Geary
Master Farrier Buddy Beaver on Why You Will Want to Enroll in Geary Whiting's Academy
Massage Techniques for Horses, Cows, Pigs, Sheep, Dogs, Cats...You Name It!
Shiatsu massage transforms health for horses, dogs, and cats by enhancing mobility, easing pain, and reducing stress. Horses benefit from improved performance, flexibility, and faster recovery, strengthening the bond with riders. Dogs gain relief from strains and arthritis, while cats enjoy better circulation, reduced anxiety, and relaxed muscles.
For cows, pigs, and sheep, massage alleviates stiffness, boosts flexibility, and aids recovery from physical stress. It enhances digestion, lowers stress levels, and promotes overall well-being, offering a competitive edge for show animals. With Geary Whiting’s holistic approach, these techniques ensure healthier, happier livestock through natural, non-invasive care.
Comprehensive Continuing Education
Our academy course includes 60 CE credits to fulfill continuing education requirements from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) for human massage professionals.
Our Horse and Rider Curriculum
Equine and Human Nutrition
In this chapter we cover 134 health problems horses face. We address what causes them, how to address them, and how to prevent them. We also cover human nutrition starting with Vitamin A and ending with Vitamin U, as well as natural minerals, what they do and what foods they can be found in. This is valuable information!
Massage and Stretching Techniques for Horses
These techniques are illustrated as well as covered in provided videos.
Hoof Care
No foot, no horse! This chapter has diagrams, articles, and a better alternative to medal shoes. Based on the interest I receive from my students on this subject I feel you will get a lot out of this section of the program.
Equine Performance
You will become acquainted with fitness and training techniques, common problem areas of stress and injury from training and performance. You will also have an excellent article on tailoring your horses from a study done at Davis University in California.
Student Success Stories
Students consistently share that they are glad they chose me as their instructor. By joining us, you’re choosing a transformative education that will equip you to make a meaningful impact in the world of equine care.
Enrolling in Geary Whiting’s Equine Massage Academy to help my own horse sparked an incredible journey. The powerful shiatsu techniques taught were transformative. Just three weeks after graduating, a connection with my chiropractor led me to massage racehorses at Hollywood Park. The trainer was astonished at how calm and relaxed the horses became, unlike with hurried therapists, and their enhanced performance was evident as one “glided down the track.” This success secured invitations to Del Mar for a stakes race and a clinic at a facility with 160 horses. Geary’s training empowered me to improve horses’ lives and opened thrilling career opportunities, making the academy a life-changing experience.
In February 2009, a race horse named Charlie’s Moment was entered in a $200,000 stakes race at Santa Anita. I was asked to work on him the morning of the race, but security is very strict before a stakes race and you must be licensed by the racing board to get near the horses. I had not received my license yet, so unfortunately I was not allowed to touch him. Charlie finished last that day.
A few months later in May 2009, Charlie was entered in a $100,000 stakes race in Hollywood Park. I offered to massage him a week before the race and again the day before, promising no charge if he didn’t finish in the money. After those two sessions, Charlie took the lead before the first turn and won by two lengths! Even more impressive was that this was a 7-furlong race, while the February race was a 6-furlong race. This impressive feat led to his purchase for $280,000 by Godolphin Racing, owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. I’m thrilled to continue this rewarding career, forever grateful for Geary’s transformative program.
Berta Delight Pinon, CESMTOwner, B Delight’d Equine Massage
I’m grateful for Geary Whiting’s holistic Equine Massage Academy program. Initially, I planned to work only on my own and friends’ horses, doubting others would value shiatsu’s benefits. I was wrong! By networking with barefoot trimmers, equine chiropractors, and rodeo friends, and using business cards, social media, and event setups, I quickly had horses lined up. Geary’s resources and focus on continuous learning fueled my success.
I treated a calf with severe neurological deficits after a heart stroke; after two sessions, he walked and stood for over an hour, supported by a caring team. I now maintain biweekly programs for barrel horses and address one-time issues, always seeking root causes as Geary taught. Witnessing these transformations is humbling and rewarding. I highly recommend Geary’s program for its empowering education.
Tamara ManleyOwner, Manley's Equine Therapy - Dickson, TN
I’m Meladee Ann Tyrrell, a 2007 graduate of Geary Whiting’s Equine Massage Academy, and my experience there transformed my life. Arriving weak and recovering from severe shingles, I was uplifted by Geary’s compassion during our first phone call, which felt like talking to an old friend. His academy’s stress-free, fun environment and engaging teaching made learning equine massage a joy. Geary’s vast expertise in fitness, nutrition, and shiatsu massage helped me regain strength and confidence to work with horses. His genuine care for my well-being, coupled with one-on-one guidance and lifelong support, sets his program apart. Thanks to Geary, I left stronger, healthier, and proud to call him a friend.
Now, I confidently massage 3-4 horses weekly during show season and dream of starting my own Equine Training Center. I wholeheartedly recommend Geary’s academy for its exceptional education and personal growth—it’s the perfect choice for anyone passionate about equine massage.
Meladee Ann TyrrellEquine Shiatsu Healing/Helping Hands - Corvallis, Oregon
In my final year of college, pursuing a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology, I was unsure about my career path until a friend introduced me to Geary Whiting’s Equine Massage Academy during the early 2020 lockdowns. As a lifelong hunter/jumper rider, I knew I wanted a career in equine sports, and Geary’s program was the perfect fit for my passion for equine rehabilitation. After signing up, Geary called to discuss the course, sparking my excitement. I received a comprehensive binder and DVDs, and through numerous phone calls and video submissions, Geary guided me in mastering hands-on techniques despite the distance.
By April 2021, I earned my certification and launched Mito’s Elite Equine Services. My clients rave about their horses’ improved movement and well-being, making every day rewarding. I highly recommend Geary’s program, whether for certification or personal growth—your horses will thank you!
Rachele BurrOwner, Mito's Elite Equine Services
I witnessed an incredible transformation at Geary Whiting’s Equine Massage Academy with a 25-year-old thoroughbred named Billy, nicknamed “Mr. Dead.” Arriving at the school underweight and frail, barely able to walk 20 feet from trailer to stall, Billy was lethargic, refusing to eat or lift his head. Over one week, Geary’s students performed transformative massages. By Monday, Billy ate more; by Tuesday, he greeted visitors coming to his stall; and by Wednesday, he nickered and devoured his feed. That afternoon, he walked with a rider, trotted by Thursday, and cantered up a hill with a rider by Friday, earning the nickname “Wild Bill.”
Remarkably, these results came from students in Geary’s massage class! His fun and interactive classes, held in a cozy setting around a dining room table, far exceeded the promised 60 hours. Geary makes every student feel more like an old dear friend come to visit, rather than just another student. It was a good vacation as well!
Jody HutchisonHorse Trainer and Graduate of Geary Whiting’s Equine Massage Academy
I’m incredibly grateful for Geary Whiting’s phenomenal Equine Massage Academy. After exploring other programs, I chose Geary’s, and it far exceeded my expectations. His enthusiastic, approachable teaching style made learning shiatsu massage fun and unforgettable.
Just a month after graduating, I traveled to the United Kingdom for three weeks, applying my skills to over 20 ponies and numerous riders. Watching them relax and improve was thrilling, and my work left a lasting impact on friends, acquaintances, and even a farrier, opening new doors for shiatsu in the UK. I’ve returned twice since, with happy ponies and owners urging me to relocate. My only regret is not learning shiatsu sooner! Thanks to Geary’s program, I now have the tools to chase my dreams, with endless possibilities ahead.