So I am not taking my horse out to an indoor arena this year, and I want to keep fit for riding come spring. Has any one tried the core exercise machine? The one that looks interesting to me is this one.
Does anyone have experience or have input either way?
I have one. I don’t use it as much as I should. Would say you get a fairly good leg work out, not sure about the core so much, the leg motion is kind of like an elliptical, which pushes the seat in the same motion. You can adjust the tension. I like it, wish it had some kind of foot straps. It is not an intense workout so if you aren’t fit you can still get a good workout without it hurting.
I’ve never seen that particular machine, but the trainers (personal trainers, not riding instructors) at my old gym always scoffed at the core machines. You can get a much better workout using just your bodyweight.
Have you considered signing up for a pilates class? I have a friend who joined pilates a few times a week when she retired, and her riding improved by leaps & bounds. Every winter I consider joining a pilates class, but I never get all the way there.
I wish there was a pilates class near me. I will have to see what’a available in town.
It is better to get a DVD. I suggest Jennifer Kries. Total Body Toning. The one that is done all on a mat and has her in a ‘V’ on the cover. It is Pilates, Yoga and Ballet combined.
There is a 15 minute daily routine and you can go on for an hour routine if you want.
Most importantly it is not boring.
You need a foam mat, preferably 1 cm thick and the DVD playing and nothing else.
I agree with a DVD. My favorites include:
http://www.amazon.com/Kari-Anderson-Curl/dp/B000GTJSU8
http://www.amazon.com/Jillian-Michaels-6-Week-Six-Pack/dp/B0042AGNB4/ref=sr_1_1?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1295646649&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/EXHALE-CORE-FUSION-PILATES-PLUS/dp/B001AZI23G
http://www.amazon.com/Pilates-Dressage-Rider-Janice-Dulak/dp/B001HWU42E
http://www.stewartclinics.com/items-for-sale/ (the fitness DVD)
The last two are developed for riders. If you feel the need for a machine, I’ve been finding this one a pretty good workout (comes with DVDs) - http://www.corebodyreformer.com/corebodyreformer-us/homepage.jsp
By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You may also receive promotional emails from The Chronicle of the Horse. You can opt out at any time.
For Customers
Company
Terms of Use
