Why do we offer a gym? Part of our training programs are rider workouts. A horse is only as good as the rider who pilots him. If you aren’t physically prepared to be the best pilot you can be, your horse can’t reach his full potential. Developing your muscles and learning how to be equestrian fit will help achieve success in the saddle. Your ability to condition your horse, challenge him/her each day you ride, and perform well the day of an event is determined by your physical fitness. When you take the time outside of the saddle to improve your overall strength, your stamina, and endurance, you give your horse the best chance possible to live a long, healthy life and perform at his/her best.
What does physical strength help? Improved posture: Horseback riding develops your lower body more than the upper; weight training evens things out. More secure seat: Strong back and abdominal muscles and increased balance make it easier to sit gracefully at a canter, or to stay in position over jumps. This also means, no more of getting pulled out of your seat by your stronger four legged creature. Better cueing. Weight training makes you more aware of your muscles and how they work. Enhanced relaxation. Working out dissipates tension--in your muscles and your mind Improved endurance, and discipline. Especially important for busy amateur riders, who often find themselves too tired to ride. Sports psychology will tell you that fatigue sabotages effort in the saddle. A Strong, fit rider will not get tired as easily, and the discipline of working out makes you tougher mentally. You'll find yourself sticking to your riding schedule and being more disciplined. Injury protection. Strong, elastic muscles, tendons and ligaments are much less prone to injury.