Why is physio for riders important?
Rider fitness and symmetry play a crucial part in a horse’s performance and soundness. Weakness can cause compensations and imbalances when in the saddle, which may cause the rider to feel unstable, uncomfortable, and ineffective.
Also, rider position affects the horse – a weakness or imbalance can cause discomfort, stress, and potential injury to the horse. A weak or imbalanced rider may rely on the reins for support, leading to poor communication and discomfort for the horse, instead of using their core and hip musculature for stability.
What is the impact of strength training on riders?
Imagine this, two riders are out hacking, a deer jumps out and both horse’s spook.
The first rider consistently completes strength training twice a week and has done for the past 10 years. The other rider mucks out and does the occasional gym class, but nothing consistent.
Both riders work desk jobs, and ride 3x a week.
The first rider loses their balance and stability but absorbs the sudden movement and regains control in a few strides.
The second rider isn’t strong enough to keep their seat and is thrown over the horse’s shoulder as it spins.
By maintaining strength and stability, the first rider was able to adapt quickly to the changing situation and use their strength and balance to stay on the horse. If they had fallen they may have been at less risk of injury since strength training can help maintain bone density.
Common issues in the saddle.
Tipping forwards
Causes :
- Anxiety or nerves – over gripping.
- Tight/weak hip flexors
- Falling into anterior pelvic tilt.
Solutions: strengthen!
- Pulse squats
- Kneeling into upright kneel against band
- Squatting back into band
- Bridge with arms in the air
- Core work
- Collapsing a hip/leaning to one side in the saddle.
Causes:
- Weakness in glutes.
- Weakness in adductors.
- Over gripping.
- Poor stirrup length.
Solutions:
strengthen and educate!
- Hip hitching off step
- Lateral lunges to SLS
- Leg swings – band around standing leg.
- Struggling to keep your heels down
Causes:
- Poor ankle mobility, dorsiflexion.
- Weakness in calf muscles.
Solutions:
2 up one down heel raise
Bent leg heel raise
Ankle mobilisations
So whats the verdict?
Physio can be helpful for equestrians in improving balance, strength and symmetry in the saddle. By identifying areas of weakness, and compensations, we can help you build a rehab plan and support your return to riding after injury or surgery.
Please get in touch with any questions or queries!