What fitness can I do to improve my horse riding?

How to improve your fitness out of the saddle

There are several other types of fitness activities that can help to improve your horse riding skills. Some examples include:

1. Core and back strengthening exercises: Strong core and back muscles can help you maintain proper posture and control while riding. Exercises such as planks, bridges, and back extensions are great examples that can help to strengthen these muscles.

2. Cardio training: Cardio training can help to improve your endurance and cardiovascular fitness. This can be beneficial for horse riding, as it can help you to maintain the energy and focus needed for longer rides. From spin classes to running, there are lots of options to help build stamina.

3. Balance and coordination exercises: Horse riding requires good balance and coordination. Exercises such as yoga, tai chi, or Pilates can help to improve these skills.

4. Flexibility: Horse riding can be tough on your joints and muscles, so it's important to have a good range of motion and flexibility. Stretching and yoga are great ways to improve flexibility.

5. Weight training: Building muscle mass can also help to improve your riding. Weight training can help to improve your overall strength and power, which can be beneficial from dressage to jumping.

It's important to keep in mind that it's always a good idea to talk to a professional trainer before starting any new physical activity, especially if you have any health conditions. They can help you to develop a personalised fitness plan that takes into account your specific needs and goals as a rider.

Stretches to do to improve your horse riding

There are several stretching exercises that can help to improve your horse riding skills:

1. Hamstring stretch: This stretch targets the muscles in the back of your thigh which can become tight from sitting in the saddle. To do this stretch, sit on the ground with one leg straight out in front of you and the other leg bent. Lean forward and reach towards your toes on the straight leg. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds and then switch legs.

2. Quad stretch: This stretch targets the muscles in the front of your thigh which can become tight from gripping the horse with your legs. To do this stretch, stand with your feet hip-width apart and bend one knee. Hold onto your ankle and pull it towards your glutes. Keep your knees close together and your abs tight. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds and then switch legs.

3. Inner thigh stretch: This stretch targets the muscles on the inside of your thigh which can become tight from gripping the horse with your legs. To do this stretch, sit on the ground with your legs wide apart and your feet turned out. Lean forward and reach towards your toes on the inside of your feet. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds and then switch legs.

4. Chest stretch: This stretch targets the muscles in your chest which can become tight from hunching forward in the saddle. To do this stretch, stand in a doorway and place your hands on the doorframe at shoulder height. Step forward and lean your chest forward until you feel a stretch in your chest. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds and then switch sides.

5. Shoulder stretch: This stretch targets the muscles in your shoulders which can become tight from holding the reins. To do this stretch, reach one arm across your chest and hold it with the opposite hand. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds and then switch sides.