Any Equestrians?

Does anyone in the group ride horses on a regular basis? I do hunter/jumper, and after a 6 year break from riding just recently got back into it. Horses are a huge part of my life and I have been riding since I was very, very young. Unfortunately, I fear I may not be ready for it physically, but am I trying super hard to continue riding. Right now I ride once a week, and that most often includes jumping. If anyone else rides and has recommendations for how I can continue, that would be amazing. Any recommendations for helping my strength and stamina? Thank you!

[Cwmtaf]

Hi,

Yes I ride horses. WeIl done to you for getting back into it.

In order to remain strong enough to stay on board (most of the time) I do pilates once a week, a session on my rowing machine along with a few stretches once a week and half an hour swimming again, once a week. I divide these sessions throughout the week and sometimes have to accept defeat and miss one or more! I try and keep on the move generally and ride most days. collapse in the afternoons in a crumpled heap but it's worth it. The big plus for me is that it keeps my mental health on a more or less even keel.

I hope you continue to enjoy your riding.

[Hidden in reply to Cwmtaf]

These are amazing ideas! Thank you so much. I will definitely be trying be trying some of this out to help me.

[Cwmtaf in reply to Hidden]

I would just add - take it steady with the pilates. Start at the basic level. It is easy to get carried away and end up doing yourself an injury. i.e. build up gradually. By the way I am 67 and trying hard to get the the bst out of a lifetime of Lupus.

The thing I love about horse riding is you don't need to be able to walk or run - this wonderful animal will willingly carry you no matter how bad you feel or what age you are.

[Hidden in reply to Cwmtaf]

Definitely good to know, thank you =)

[tuppenceworth]

Hi, yes I ride and I love it.

I am more careful than perhaps I would be otherwise (or is that an age thing?) these days.

I do pilates which really helps my balance and coordination. I do other exercise like cycling which helps fitness and stamina.

I think keep riding as long as you can. For me it gives me the buzz that other activities don't. If I stop for a while (which I have had to once or twice) it is harder to get back again, and my strength and balance is weaker. As I enjoy it so much I know it is good for my mental health.

So I'd say, keep riding while you can, and enjoy it.

[Hidden in reply to tuppenceworth]

Hi! Thank you so much! I’m going to look up some Pilates videos on YouTube and start doing it. =)

[Tiggywoos]

hi lovely . I teach Pilates and I have to say It’s fab for core and posture and flexibility.

I get hideous Erythromelalgia and leg pain so riding for me is a life savour as it’s non weight bearing and gets me off my feet . Ponies are so sweet and cheeky and it’s like they know when we are sad 😔 so cheer us up .

Definitely try and do some lunges providing your knees are ok as they are best thing for keeping your legs strong without having to do loads of exercise and shoulder bridges . Do go steady though as Pilates is harder than it looks ☺️. YouTube is ok but if you could get to a class it’s great to have someone correct you .

Big Hugs 🤗 xxx 🐴

[Hidden in reply to Tiggywoos]

Thank you!! 🥰