The muscles used in horseback riding are unique to any other sport because of the position in which the body is held during the ride. Indeed, muscle requirements increase as a rider learns new skills and techniques; advanced riders must be incredibly strong to communicate effectively. The muscle groups needed to ride a horse should be developed religiously as a rider progresses in training.
Shoulders and Back
The first muscle groups needed to ride a horse are those in the shoulders and back. These muscles are used in horseback riding primarily for balance and posture, ensuring the rider is in the ideal position to deliver commands. When riding, the shoulders should be rounded back with the chest jutted forward, while the back should be ruler-straight but flexible.
The two-point position is the best way to exercise these muscle groups. This lifts the second point (the seat) out of the saddle and pushes the upper body forward, but the shoulders must still be thrust back and the spine should run parallel to the horse's neck.
Arms and Hands
Many riders will say that the arms and hands are muscle groups that are not necessary for horseback riding, but this is not the case. Although one should never ride a horse using too much pressure or force with the hands and arms, these muscles are needed for maintaining control.
In horseback riding, the elbows should be tucked in at the sides, with the forearms either parallel to the ground or slightly sloped down toward the withers. Lifting weights and squeezing rubber balls will help develop the muscles of the hands and arms until it becomes easier to ride a horse.
Abdominals
Perhaps the most important of the muscle groups required for horseback riding, the abdominals are the center for balance and control. Simply shifting the hips to one side or the other with a contraction of the abdominals should signal to the horse that he should move in the opposite direction. This is the epitome of communication between horse and rider.
Many horseback riders wear braces or vests to support the abdominals and back muscles for horseback riding. This ensures a straighter posture and helps isolate the abdominals for maximum effectiveness. Crunches are an excellent exercise for bringing these muscles into shape.
Thighs and Calves
The last muscle groups needed for horseback riding are those in the thighs and calves, which are used not only to deliver cues to the horse, but also to hang on. The thighs should be pressed flush against the saddle with the knees flexible. Closing the knees (and contracting the thighs) will slow a horse down, while opening the knees permits freedom in the front end of the horse.
The calves should be rested gently against the horse's sides, then used for delivering cues. Pressure with the right or left calf should move the horse in the opposite direction, while simultaneous pressure indicates that the horse should move forward.
Developing Muscles for Horseback Riding
In many cases, the only way to develop the muscle groups required to ride a horse is to actually ride. However, working out at a gym or at home will increase the pace of muscular development and provide the rider with a solid foundation for muscle control.
Laura Thompson - Laura Thompson is a horseback riding instructor and freelance writer living in Houston, Texas. She is proud to be the feature writer for ...
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