Pilates for equestrians - Liza Randall

Pilates is an invigorating and proven body conditioning method which helps to strengthen the core muscles used in riding and restores the body's balance. It is a form of exercise which is being taken up by more and more sportsmen and women and its benefits can be seen to improve posture, muscle tone and to provide stability for the pelvis and shoulders--essential for the rider. Increasingly riders are discovering the benefits that Pilates can bring to their sport. Importantly, it can help improve a rider's results to give them that winning edge, which, at the top level, can be the difference between triumph and disaster. Dressage riders achieve better harmony with their horse, as a tweak of a muscle by the rider can convey a subtle but effective message to the horse. Eventers or showjumpers can, after a few short weeks, improve their balance over a fence, becoming more effective in their seat, and are at an advantage and more tuned in to their horse should it decide not to go where intended! Pilates is an essential tool for improved, more effective, and ultimately safer riding.