Greenhawk Rider Fitness
Today on Greenhawk’s Pro Tips – rider fitness! We expect our horses to be athletes, but to be a better partner, we should also work on our own fitness, regardless of discipline. Simple stretching or yoga is a good start – the more limber you are, the less likely you are to injure yourself or your horse.
Next, consider the muscles you use to ride. As riders, we need a strong core to keep balance, stability and proper posture in the saddle. We should also be able to give isolated and accurate signals with our legs and hands, without gripping, twisting, or pulling with another section of our body. That requires independent use of single muscle groups against a stable but flexible trunk.
Exercises such as single leg deadlifts, leg presses, rows, or calf raises can target and train the muscle groups needed for riding, to improve your position and control, and help with clear, effective communication between you and your horse. Plus, the fitter you are, the more endurance you’ll have for long rides. A well-rounded fitness plan makes every ride smoother and more enjoyable.
Pro Tips, brought to you by Greenhawk – gear for your horse, and for you.