August in Colorado is prime riding season for horse owners and lovers. Following the cold season, riders can find themselves out of practice and peak athletic condition. Before hopping back into the saddle, here are a few tips to get you riding fit. Also, if you’re riding alone because of social distancing practices, try some of these horse safety apps. Remember, if you’re looking for a horse property in Colorado, we have the largest database of horse properties of any other site.
Tips To Get You Back Into The Saddle
One of the things that make experienced riders fit, is their heels. You can flex your heels by standing with them off the edge a surface, like stairs. Find a suitable surface in your home and practice dropping your body weight down on your heels. Do this exercise for just a few minutes a day to help remind your heels how to drop down when in the stirrups. Over the holidays, most of us skip the gym to spend more time with family and friends. To get riding fit, you’ll probably want to dust off that membership card. Focus on strength-training exercises, work out your core and add planking, leg squats, and exercises that target your shoulders into your routine.
Cardio is important for equestrians, because it helps increase endurance while riding. There are many ways to do cardio. You can hop on the treadmill or go running or swimming. As long as you’re raising your heart rate, then you’re on the right track. Incorporate cardio workouts at least two or three times a week. Another important aspect of being riding fit is balance. Incorporate some balance exercises regularly into your exercise routine. There are many balance-enhancing exercises, including using a wobble board, standing on one foot, walking from heel to toe, and more.
