Horseback riding uses many muscles that you don't have to worry about in other sports and activities. Riding a horse may look like you are just sitting down and letting the horse do the work, but many stabilizing and balancing muscles are working to help keep you upright and strong in the saddle as you ride along.
Ride the Ball
Sitting on top of a stability ball will help you strengthen the same core muscles you use when riding. Sit on the ball while watching television, working on a computer, reading a book or just sitting around. You will learn to hold yourself up and support your spine, which will come in handy when riding. Keep your knees in line with your ankles while you are on the ball.
Side Bridge
The side bridge works the core muscles in your obliques, located up the sides of your midsection. To do a side bridge, get on the floor on your side on your left elbow and the outside of your left foot. Keep your body stiff and off the floor. Hold it for 10 to 30 seconds and do it two to three times on both sides.
The Plank
The plank is similar to the side bridge, only it is for the front of your abdominals. For a plank, get on both elbows and forearms, with toes on the floor and your body facing the ground. Keep your body in as straight a line as possible. Hold the position for 10 to 30 seconds, or until you can no longer keep a flat back. Do two to three repetitions.
Pilates "100 Breaths"
The Pilates 100 Breaths exercise works on endurance for your midsection and static core strength. Lie on your back on an exercise mat with your arms at your sides. Bend your knees so your legs are up off the floor at 90 degrees. Raise your shoulders and head off the mat and take five short, consecutive breaths in, followed by five short exhales. While you are taking the breaths, lift your arms slightly off the mat and pulse them so they are in sync with the breaths. Turn your palms up when inhaling and down while you exhale. Do the sequence 10 times for 100 total breaths.
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