Horse riding is sport for both genders and all ages. Adults taking up riding at an older age do suffer some disadvantages. It is a great sport for fun, for fitness, for posture, and for socializing. It does cost a lot of time and money but it is a sport so worth it.
Adult Riders tend to have.
- Fear of falling
- Posture problems
- Pain in parts
- Old or current injuries
- Stiffness in their spine
- Habitual movement patterns
- Very one sided
- Less time
- More money though
- These problems are only problems if not addressed.
Many adult riders have had a passion to learn to ride since they where small. Some have developed the passion watching the popularity of the sport. Some are just plain horse lovers at heart.
I have been a rider all my life and lucky enough to have been a successfully competitor and trainer. I have trained many new riders into the sport and love seeing the success.
My tips for adult riders to get a good start are many. I do recommend the Applied Posture Riding program as a must though.
As a Physiotherapist I am a strong believer in good posture and core strength. Strong abdominals is the most important training an adult rider can start to get the best grounding for riding. A strong core and riding posture will give the adult rider strength, and hence the confidence to learn the movement patterns required for riding. Riding requires symmetry, flexibility and posture control. These features can be trained on the floor and the physio ball. I strongly recommend the Applied Posture Riding program for a new adult rider to follow, in conjunction with a good on the ground riding instructor.
If and adult rider is able to learn riding from the start rather than just get on and feel the insecurity then they will not be deterred with fear. Pain in the back will stop a rider being in tune with the horse. The horse then resists and stiffens up. The end result is a battle. This can be prevented if riders learn riding and the movement patterns on the ground.
By understanding your own weakness in your body and being able to train these individual problems the adult rider will succeed quicker and with more fun.
By following a simple exercise program designed by a physiotherapist and elite rider the horse rider is far more likely to achieve their goals. Good luck to you all.
