7 Comments

1. 

   Kashmir on 2010/04/20 at 21:14

   One of the best ways I’ve heard ( and done) for getting into better shape, especially riding shape, was to do pilates. VERY good for strengthening your core and leg muscles (and arms and back, etc). Basically a really good all around workout. Combine that with some cardio, and you’ve got a pretty well-rounded workout. Cardio three times a week, and then pilates three days. Then of course riding normally. Though be prepared to be very very! sore after your first couple pilates workouts. If you talk with a pilates instructor and tell them you’re a rider, you can get a more specialized work-out.

   good luck! 🙂

2. 

   Jujus L on 2010/04/20 at 21:14

   try lying on yor back and doing scissor kicks. verry good for your back and legs

3. 

   Ketra! on 2010/04/20 at 21:14

   I do cross country running through hills to be in good shape. You build muscles and stamina, once you get into it you can ride for hours and hours 🙂 You could do sit ups and whatever it is when you touch your knee to your elbow. I do those sometimes.

4. 

   Jennifer on 2010/04/20 at 21:14

   I used to ride dressage and currently have started show jumping. I walked on our treadmill for 20minutes/3.5mph every day. Leg presses are also really good if you’re trying to build your leg muscles. Go on youtube and try to find some workout videos. I got most of my workouts from there:)

5. 

   LiveToRide.RideToLive. on 2010/04/20 at 21:14

   Do a lot of work without stirrups (walk-trot-canter, include posting & jumping position).

   Some people say to just "ride more" but I don’t know how often you’re able to do so-

   I do mainly dressage (with some jumpers here and there) and this year I’ve taken up road cycling- it uses a lot of the same muscles used in horseback riding and unlike running, is very low impact.

   Another interesting thing that’s good for your legs (and is relatively low impact) is rollerblading- they actually have rollerblading marathons.

   Walking, yoga…the list goes on and on 🙂

6. 

   Abby on 2010/04/20 at 21:14

   Yoga is the BEST! Tons of dressage pros say that yoga is the best for core strength and breath control and overall balance. its fun to do too! yoga all the way. and google a guy named Daniel Stewart and he works w/ riders balance and he has a great book out on balance and the importance of a riders health ect. I have been to two clinics and 3 seminars w/ him and he rocks 🙂

7. 

   NattyB on 2010/04/20 at 21:14

   I agree, Yoga strengthens in areas that help so much when riding. Also pilates and exercises with ball fitness.