Riding your horse is a workout. We’ve been exploring ways to get physically fit for riding in the Fit Rider column in Horse Illustrated this year. But have you thought about appropriate fuel for the ride?A lot of equestrians...
Most equestrians are not frequent stretchers. For me, this means after 20 years of saddle time, I have incredibly tight hips.I recently attended a yoga class in Houston, Texas at Revolution Studio. I felt the tension in my hips...
Photos Courtesy Auburn Athletics DepartmentWinter can be rough for even the most dedicated riders and exercisers. It’s not always easy to get back into the swing of your normal activities. If you took a few months off from riding...
Ask anyone what core exercises they typically do, and you’ll probably hear "a lot of crunches.” It seems simple enough—lie on your back with your knees bent and hands laced behind your head, and contract your abdominal muscles as...
You already pay close attention to your horse's fitness, but to be a better, more effective rider for your horse, take a holistic look at your own wellness, too. In Horse Illustrated's Fit Rider series, we offer some techniques...
Q: I ride once a week at my local barn, and the next day my legs are quite sore. Are there any exercises that will prevent soreness after a ride?
A: When you have a spare minute at home, slip...
Working on your fitness on the ground will help you be more effective and balanced in the saddle.One of the (only) good things about not owning my own horse is that I have time to try out new activities....
Effective riding requires fitness. Here's how to maintain strength and endurance even when you can't ride every day.
For most riders, it happens unexpectedly. A few missed days of riding turns in to a few weeks and before they know...
Most riders would be surprised to get Linda Denniston’s take on what keeps them in the saddle. “Your legs are not what keep you on the horse,” she says. “It’s your upper body that’s going to fall; not your...
Riding horses is great exercise, but working on your fitness and core strength when you're not in the saddle will make you a more effective equestrian. Here are some exercises for riders recommended by fitness expert Rallie McAllister, MD.1. Seated Ball Squeeze:...
