My new best finds
Some new things that I learned this season that I really found useful…
- Cliff Shot Bloks
These were recommended by my strength/conditioning/nuitrition coach daughter. She is now in the throes of getting her PhD in sports psych.
They are used by triathalon and marathon runners. They give a lot of energy and clarity of brain very quickly. They are a bit like a gummy bear on the outside, easy to handle with gloves on, on a moving horse. The center feels liquid-y on the tongue, no water needed to swallow. Lots of great flavors, well thought-out organic ingredients, that actually make sense. The package is like a soft tube of life savers, that makes it easy to get in and out of a small pocket.
You will find them in health food, running, and outdoor sports stores. The Cliff web site gives the national chain stores, like Le Target, Weigman’s, etc.
- Effax leather grip stick.
I heard about this from one of my Upper Level eventer friends. It has really helped me stay in the saddle and quiet, when riding the leaping greenies. I don’t waste energy, slip sliding away, so I’m not gripping for survival, which the mares appreciate.
I wish I had had it when I lessoned with Jimmy Wofford this summer. It is easy to remove too, when cleaning the boots and saddle.
- Stuebben wide track stirrups
These will be hopefully out on the market soon. They are beautifully, gracefully, designed. Great grip and balance with the wide support for long hours in the saddle. They have been a huge help in easily staying with the horse through the surprise moves, hunting and jumping. My feet aren’t going numb with these.
