We teamed up with guest blogger Michael Dehaan who is founder and editor-in-chief at Best Horse Rider. Based in Oklahoma, Michael has been working with horses all his life, acquiring rich experience and professional insights, which he happily shares with other fellow equestrians.
Recognizing that many of our guests don’t have horses at home, Michael shares some tips here on how to get fit for your riding vacation. If this helps you be a little less sore remember that hot tub is still there to soak in under the stars whether you are sore or not!
Going on vacation where you get to ride is a wonderful experience. Whether it’s on the beach, through the mountains surrounding Vista Verde Ranch, or through the woods, there are many beautiful places you can go riding while you are on vacation. It is helpful to know how to get fit for your riding ranch vacation when you don’t have a horse at home so you don’t get sore or struggle to keep up.
Though some people don’t realize it, horseback riding takes skill and hard work. Almost all top equestrians hit the gym on a regular basis in order to stay in shape. For those who don’t ride regularly, a riding vacation can leave you tired and sore if you don’t properly prepare. So you can fully enjoy your ranch vacation, we make the following recommendations.
How to Get Fit for Your Riding Vacation When You Don’t Have a Horse at Home
Before you head out for your riding vacation at Vista Verde Ranch in Colorado, you want to make sure you are prepared for your time in the saddle. Riding works many of your muscles, such as your abs, glutes, and quads. Depending on the intensity of the riding, you will also need to make sure you have good stamina. And if it is your first time riding, don’t worry, because at Vista Verde our riding program accommodates all riding levels.
Fortunately, there are ways to prepare you for your riding vacation even if you don’t have a horse at home to practice on. With the right workout routine, you can help prepare your body for horseback riding. This will help make sure you have the right stamina while riding and won’t be aching afterward.
Do Cardio
Cardio is a great way to help build up your stamina for riding. Between half an hour to an hour of cardio three to five times, a week can help with your stamina.
There are many great options for getting your cardio workout in. Running, biking, brisk walking, and using the elliptical are all great ways to help your body get in horseback riding shape.
Do Core Exercises
Your core is very important for horseback riding. You need a strong core in order to balance yourself and properly use your body when you ride.
There are many great core exercises you can do to improve your riding. In addition, to sit-ups and crunches, do planks, roll downs, dead bugs, leg, and arm reaches and swimming holds. Work your core muscles two to three times a week for around 15 minutes at a time.
Do Leg Strengthening Exercises
Doing leg strengthening exercises can greatly improve your riding. You use many of your leg muscles when you ride, so it is important to make sure they are in shape.
There are many wonderful leg exercises to strengthen your muscles. Wall squats, lunges, calf raises, and side leg lifts will help work the leg muscles you use most while riding. Work your leg muscles around two to four times a week for 15-20 minutes a time.
Preparing to Ride
It is a good idea to do cardio and exercise your core and leg muscles to prepare yourself for riding. The right workout will help keep your stamina up and keep you from getting sore, as well as increasing your coordination and lowering your chance of injury. With a proper workout routine and proper riding attire, you can have a great time on your riding vacation.
At Vista Verde Ranch, our wonderful wranglers and fabulous horses will take it from there to help you enjoy your riding vacation.