Exercises for Horseback Riders

As keen horse riders, we put a lot of effort into training our horse and becoming better riders, but at some point we realize that if only we were fitter and more supple, we would ride more in harmony with our horse instead of getting in his way. Horse riding is a very physical activity - getting fitter makes us a stronger rider, and when we are more in control of our own body, our horse is able to give us a better performance.

Normal fitness routines are a huge help, but they don’t target the specific muscles required for horse riding.  All the exercises for horseback riders featured on this site focus on how horse riders can improve their balance, core strength, flexibility and suppleness.  The rider becomes more effective, safer, and has less chance of injury.  Correct strengthening of the back muscles also reduces lower back pain, a common problem with horse riding.

So whether you’re a beginner rider who wants to learn to have better body control and coordination, a competition rider of any discipline who wants better results, or anyone in between, this selection of exercise programs are all designed specifically for horse riders. Ranging from Pilates to gym-type work and even Tai Chi, there is something for everyone, and most involve off-the-horse exercises you can do in your own home.

	APPLIED POSTURE RIDING by Annette Willson This Pilates-based program is used by top riders all around the world. It is designed to be used in your own home – no need to go to a gym.  More>>>
	THE RIDER’S FITNESS PROGRAM by Dianna Robin Dennis, Johnny J. McCully, and Paul M. Juris Perfect for beginning riders using muscles they never knew they had before, advanced riders who want to stay in top form, and weather-bound riders who can’t get out during the winter.  More>>>
	BETTER RIDER, BETTER RIDE: Get Fit to Create Riding Breakthroughs by Linda Schultz Author Linda Schultz identifies common riding problems and how they can be corrected through specific exercises for horseback riders.  More>>>
	RIDE FROM WITHIN: Use Tai Chi Principles to Awaken Your Natural Balance and Rhythm by James Shaw Combining the ancient art of Tai Chi with horsemanship allows the rider to center their body, gain control of their breathing, and calm their mind.  More>>>
	RIDING FROM THE INSIDE OUT by Larissa Chadwick, Lisa Champion, and Anna-Louise Bouvier A whole new exercise and stretching program to practice off the horse and improve your performance on the horse.  More>>>
	PILATES FOR THE DRESSAGE RIDER by Janice Dulak – Also in DVD A program of Pilates exercises specifically designed to help the dressage rider enhance her ability for success in dressage.  More>>>
	THE RIDER’S PAIN-FREE BACK: Overcome Chronic Soreness, Injury and Aging, and Stay in the Saddle for Years to Come by James Warson MD and Ami Hendrickson This guide illustrates how various movements in the saddle affect a rider’s back and outlines straightforward steps that can be taken immediately to help keep riders ready to saddle up.  More>>>
	YOGA FOR EQUESTRIANS: A New Path for Achieving Union with the Horse by Linda Benedik & Veronica Wirth A unique program of yoga for riders that cultivates both mental and physical flexibility and balance – vital keys to achieving harmony between horse and human.  More>>>

If there are other exercise programs you would like to see featured on this site, please contact us and if possible we will add them for the benefit of all horse riders (and their horses, of course).

FIT RIDERS ARE HAPPIER, HEALTHIER AND BETTER RIDERS

HERE’S JUST ONE OF THE BENEFITS OF BEING FIT
Watch this short but amazing video – This girl’s fitness and agility saved her from certain elimination on the cross-country course!

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