When an area of the body is used repeatedly the muscles build and strength becomes more prominent in one part than another. The same applies for flexibility.

The end result is the body structure becomes unbalanced resulting in
poor muscular performance and pain.

Fitness for the Equestrian

The last thing any rider wants to hear after a long day of exercising horses and shoveling out stalls is that they should do a fitness program designed specifically for them.

To physically communicate effectively with you horse, whether it be in competition or just out for an enjoyable hack, it is imperative that you have a heightened body awareness level and a well balanced muscular system. For the individual concerned, coordination, strength endurance, mobility, and flexibility are an absolute must.

In any sport, the truly fit person excels in their field.

How many people do you know spend hundreds of dollars on professional riding instruction but have poor coordination and are unfit? Can you just imagine the mixed messages their mount receives from them during a lesson? The rider becomes frustrated with the horse instead of having a good look at their own physical being.

Does this sound familiar? “I just can’t get my horse to do a smooth downward transition but as soon as my instructor gets on and asks him to do it he or she is successful.” Not only is the instructor experienced, he or she knows exactly where and how to place their body to get the proper response. The teacher is fit and has a well tuned body awareness level resulting in successful communication with the mount.

Now, I am not saying you have to spend hours each day to achieve a reasonable fitness level, but it does take some time and personal commitment. The exercise techniques included in my programs are not difficult and the results are encouraging for the participant.

Remember, “You expect maximum performance from your horse. Your horse will appreciate the same from you.”