3 main factors that determine what will make a life long proficient and progressive equestrian pt.2

Following up on my observations of the 3 main factors that determine what will make a life long proficient and progressive equestrian.

My earlier post was on the mental aspects.

The second one is physical.

This one is such an important one and has several factors surrounding it. So let’s agree that most Equestrians have a love for movement!

How much we enjoy this movement is determined by how we feel whilst moving on a horse or with them on the ground. If we feel connected, in sync, balanced and safe, free, empowered etc. then there is nothing on earth that compares to this sport and there’s no turning back!

One of the most common ways of shattering one’s love and longevity in this sport is feeling unsafe physically or experiencing physical discomfort when riding.

Some physical factors that aid in achieving and maintaining enjoyment and ease are:

Feeling physically connected to our own body. This connection is determined in part to our emotional and mental state. The ability to find and maintain centeredness, be in touch with bodily sensations and access all the parts of our body.

Being physically fit and flexible enough to engage and maintain the muscles needed for proper postural alignment and function to stay in sync with the horse’s movement and influence without tension. The level of fitness is determined by the amount of movement being ridden and the duration.

The desire, commitment and discipline to prioritize mastering and refining the physical skills that enhance the communication with horses. It is a lifelong practice and mastery turns it into art.

Balance is achieved when strength and flexibility marry and are accessible.

At New Strides we take accountability for the influence our physical connection and balance on and off the horse has and are always striving to become better athletes and partners to our horses.

This includes:

Taking weekly riding lessons

Continuous learning about human and equine biomechanics.

Providing bodywork to our horses in between professional visits.

Providing in hand work for our horses-the equivalent of horsey yoga and Pilates.

Participating in Equifit workout and yoga classes offered.

Partnering up with team mates to practice outside of lessons.

If you have the mental desire and discipline to become a better partner for your horse and will put in the work to acquire the skills to feel balanced physically, there’s no limit to what you can achieve on your journey as you continue to make New Strides!

~JamGem~