January Neighborhood Update / Eastside Equestrian Life

In equestrian sports, the rider’s fitness level is all too often overlooked. The main focus on athletic prowess is targeted on our loyal equine partner who is expected to make up for any gaps or lack of ability in the rider. How fair is this to the horse? The rider has an obligation to his or her own fitness level just as much as a commitment to the horse’s fitness. We wouldn’t send a horse into the competition ring, overweight or underweight, weak and out of breath, would we? What we lack in strength, flexibility, stamina, balance and endurance is felt by our partner and this is a major burden to put upon them when they are already doing so much for us.

Lexi and “Hampton”

Lexi often rides 8-9 horses a day which would not be possible without a keen understanding of her body and how it effects the horse. When you watch Lexi ride, it’s not only her years of training and exquisite communication with the horse which are so stunning, but her overall grace in the saddle, just simply takes your breath away. That grace has been earned in thousands of hours of training on and off the horse. To be able to communicate as a riding instructor just how your body is working and effecting the horse is one of the truly unique qualities to Lexi’s coaching.

How about a different kind of New Year’s resolution this year? Instead of wanting to shed a few pounds and get fit for your health, how about doing it for your horse’s health instead?