Training for Equestrian Excellence: Tips for Competitive Riders
There is no sound in the arena save the melodious beating of hooves on wet sand. The morning Seattle mist is low, and envelops horse and rider in a cocoon of concentration. It is competition day, and at this moment it is all about the ride. Have you ever thought about what makes a good rider a great one? That is the question that is heard almost every day in horse riding Seattle circles. Luck has little to do with it, it is more about preparation, precision, and mindset. Are you a ribbon chaser or just trying to be the best you can be in the saddle, either way it takes more than proper form to train to be an equestrian athlete. It is knowing the needs of the rider, as well as the horse and incorporating technique with trust. The Mindset Behind the Medal We will discuss the mindset before we discuss the muscle. Competitive riding is not only a physical sport, it is a mental chess game with you and your horse. Trust, concentration, and flexibility are just what might separate a pe...