equestrian conditioning

Equestrian athletes training with one of our certified personal trainers can expect to:

  • Increase core strength
  • Improve postural endurance
  • Increase strength and endurance in the legs
  • Increase ankle, knee and hip stability and alignment
  • Reduce the risk of injury

Read this great essay from the American Medical Equestrian Association:

 

Conditioning for the Equestrian Athlete

The U.S.C.T.A. rules state “In the interest of the horse, the fitness and competence of the rider shall be regarded as essential.” The equestrian rider spends many hours each week assuring proper nutrition, exercise, training and excellent medical care is provided for his/her horse. However, most riders overlook these important areas for themselves. The equestrian athlete is no different from any other athlete. Strength, flexibility and cardiovascular conditioning is just as important for the success of the equestrian athlete as it is for the track, football, basketball, gymnast or any other athlete.

It has been studied and documented that the well-conditioned athlete is better able to handle the repeated stress of their sport. The well-conditioned athlete who sustains an injury will also recover more quickly and be better able to return to his/her sport.

When discussing conditioning with the equestrian athlete, the program most often followed is “I ride into condition.” Riding alone does not provide sufficient demands on the muscular and cardiovascular system to develop peak physical conditioning. Although this method seems to work for some, it will not give the rider the competitive edge and will often result in chronic injury. Having the necessary strength, endurance, and flexibility will enhance the rider’s performance by allowing better control of the mount, decrease the stress and fatigue levels, and thereby reduce the risk of injury.

Common muscular injuries seen in equestrian athletes include injuries involving the back, shoulders, wrist and forearm, as well as the legs. These injuries occur due to muscle imbalance, fatigue, lack of strength and flexibility, repetitive stress and improper riding technique. Muscular injures can be eliminated through proper stretching, strength training end conditioning.

 

-AMERICAN MEDICAL EQUESTRIAN ASSOCIATION

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