I don't really do much. But i do whatch what i eat sometimes, so then when it comes to shows im healthy and full of energy. I would like to exercise more, and strengthen my core. which would be great! And when i do exercise i put in all my effot!
miah is right, what you eat is just as important as your physcal activity. as a track and cross country runner, i'm pretty much training all the time- the equestrian or the running side. it's always one or the other all the time (between school and FFA that is.) it's a good life, but i have to say, food is sooo important. i can't do anything well if i'm not running on optimum fuel.
My exercise regimen is a combination of aerobic, flexibility, and strength workouts. For my aerobic, I walk, jog, and run a few times a week for 30 minutes. I also use the re-bounder for about 5 to 8 minutes a day. (The re-bounder is really, really great for a fast, easy and effective cardio workout as well as cleaning your lymphatic system) Flexibility comes just from stretching, and for strength, I work with some light weights a few times a week at my gym. Other than that, my exercise comes from the barn. Mucking out stalls, leading my horse for walks all around the farm, exploring things together, and my favorite of all...riding!
i am a competive swimmer. i swim at least 6 days of the week, when some of those days are double (once in the morning before school and again after school). i don;t know how i can keep up with riding with this work, but i know i'm better off doing this than just not doing anything to stay in shape. im in better shape than other riders, but if i could ride more it would be even better!
I find that my mental fitness affects my riding as much as my physical fitness. Therefore, I do a lot of breathing exercises and visual imagery to help me relax. I also pay close attention to what and when I eat. I eat something with protein before I work with my horse to increase my ability to focus and stay positive and calm while I ride. This is especially important as we practice exercises to expand our comfort zones.
My exercise begins at the farm. It usually starts as soon as I go to get my horse. His pasture is 16 acres. Most of the time I have to walk the 16 acres there and back(great for the legs). Next comes the brushing,picking the hooves and the tack. Then tightening the girth, some equestrians know that can be one of the hardest parts. Then I get on and ride. While I am riding I use my core muscles to help lift me out of my saddle and to turn my horse. Then after every ride I stretch on my horse. After a long day at the farm my horse and I have both had a workout!
I take a weekly yoga class to keep my body fit for riding. It's a great way to keep those muscles flexed and agile. Yoga also teaches good breathing practices and balance exercises to keep everything equal on both sides. I can't imagine riding without some kind of exercise program!!
i try to cut back on food and occasinally swim or workout and i am fixing to start on a soccer team for my office.