Because your horse being fit is only half of the equation!

As riders we often forget the impact that our own fitness (or lack thereof) has on the health of our horses.

Just as our horses need training to get stronger, more flexible and better balanced to perform, so do we! 

A rider’s position in the saddle has a huge influence over a horse’s way of carrying itself, affecting not only the quality and freedom of his paces but also his ability to perform happily and even to maintain soundness.

We often think that the way to become better riders is by spending more time in the saddle. And spending time in the saddle IS important. But if you don’t fix the weaknesses going on in your own body, you’ll be going around in circles trying to fix the same problems over & over again no matter what horse you’re riding.

Pilates is a fantastic way to help maintain rider conditioning and balance so that the horse can function optimally. It is more than just the core. Pilates trains body awareness, balance, flowing movements as well as finding the centre.

The coordination of upper and lower body as well as being coordinated in rotational movements and controlling one side whilst the other is working are all fundamental principles. The horse benefits from your improved posture and position, and in turn their condition improves.

As a rider, I can divide the past 35 years of my life in the saddle in two different “eras”.

The “Pre Pilates era” where I would ride 3-4 hours a day constantly being told to correct the same mistakes in my riding: leaning forward, feeling like I was at the mercy of my horse’s every move and having little control over my aides. 

And the “Pilates era” where I have gained better self-awareness and control over my body off the horse, which has translated into having a better seat and being able to hold my center when I’m on my horse.

By constantly working on strengthening, stretching and developing better balance in my own body I have become more aware of how I interact with my horse and what areas I can improve on to become a better ally to him.

In this 5 week introductory program to Pilates for Riders you will learn how to improve your body’s strength, flexibility, control and mobility to truly find your seat, to gain better balance, confidence and pleasure in your riding.

Starting on October 11th we will meet every Monday at 6:30pm Costa Rican time for an hour long session.

You will be sent the recording of each session so you can repeat the workout on your own or watch the replay in case you miss a session live.

This class is open to all level riders and no prior Pilates experience is necessary. Kids are welcome.

All you need is a Yoga mat, or even better would be a slightly thicker Pilates mat, some water and comfortable clothing (no shoes).

After signing up you will receive an email with the link to the Zoom session which will take place on Monday the 11th of October at the following time:

• 6:30pm Costa Rica time
• 10:30am Los Angeles time
• 12:30pm in NYC
• 2:30am (on the 31st of August) in Central Europe

[ Please advise if you have any injuries PRIOR to registering. All sales are final. ]

I look forward to seeing you on the mat!