Fitness for Equestrian Kids & Youth

Some key areas of focus according to discipline are:

Jumping: Balanced quadriceps and hamstring strength, back and shoulder strength, balance, and cardio.

Dressage: Flexibility in hip flexors, adductors and hamstrings, balance, body awareness, shoulder strength and core strength (back, obliques and abs).

Reining: Cardio, core (especially back) and shoulder strength (especially rotator cuff), flexibility in hip flexors and adductors.

Working Western disciplines: More cardio, rotational power, shoulder strength.

Polo: Shoulder strength, rotational power exercises similar to tennis and golf, inner and outer thigh, cardio, major attention to core work, especially including twists.

Cross-country jumping: Similar to polo and jumping, with high degree of cardiovascular ability.

Endurance/Competitive Trail: Muscular stamina in legs, back, and shoulders, and attention to cardiovascular ability. Body balance is particularly important given the length of time the horse may have to carry a crooked rider.

Contrary to popular belief, riding is not enough exercise to keep you fit. Riding can be a wonderful part of an active lifestyle which keeps you healthy. However, like any other sport, the demands placed on the body by riding create muscular imbalance.

Without appropriate stretching and strength training for the opposing muscles groups (which aren’t used as much when actually riding), the rider will create muscular imbalance and even structural issues which will later require attention from a chiropractor, massage therapist or even physiotherapist.  Stretching is a wonderful daily practice for young riders of all ages, and will help prevent injury as well as repetitive strain issues.