As endurance riders, we’re obsessed with our horses’ fitness. We meticulously plan their conditioning rides, track their recoveries, and adjust their programs based on age, fitness level, season, and goals. But when it comes to our own bodies? Too many of us are still doing the same, ineffective routine we started years ago. We’re going …
Raise your hand if you remember doubling over on the middle school track, clutching your side and mouthing “stitch” at your gym teacher. Yeah, me too. As much as we all wish this could be nothing but an amusing memory, the truth is that over 60% of equestrians report experiencing side stitches in the saddle. …
Before you say it…I know. You’re not racing. So, why would you want to make better time on the endurance trail? If you’re angling to top ten, the value of finishing an endurance ride more quickly is obvious. But as I frequently explain to non-horsey types, endurance riding is like human marathoning: A few are racing …
5 Ways to Make Better Time on the Endurance Trail Read More »
Are you hoping to move up to riding longer distances this year? Whether that means entering your first 100 or upshifting from LDs to 50s, one of the first obstacles you’ll need to overcome is fatigue. We all love the idea of those long endurance rides…when we’re seated on our comfy sofa with a copy …
How to Overcome Fatigue So You Can Rider Longer Distances Read More »
Have you experienced shin pain while endurance riding? Many of us have, including me. In fact, there was a time I thought I’d have to give up endurance riding for good. I thought the problem was shin splints — and only when I discovered the real cause was I able to resolve the pain and …
Heat acclimation is a tool used by all kinds of athletes to improve their ability to perform in hot and/or humid conditions. Endurance riders can benefit from it as well. Here’s what you need to know.
After two spinal fusion surgeries, endurance rider Layne Lewis shares her recovery strategies for returning to the saddle.
“Back surgery felt like a death sentence. I didn’t know if I would come out in a wheelchair, or unable to ride.” Equestrian endurance rider Layne Lewis took on a devastating diagnosis and difficult recovery to return to riding 100’s in less than a year.
We all take a bad ride photo now and then. But what if we consistently notice a jutting head and slouchy spine? It could be Upper Crossed Syndrome, which affects not only riders, but horses as well.
Like other athletes, equestrian endurance riders can intentionally prepare our brains and guts to handle the rigors of miles on the trail. Running coach Greg McMillan shares how.