Short answer: No
Long answer:
I didn't start consistently working out until the beginning of quarantine. But once I did, let me tell you, it made a HUGE difference. My work out routine isn't insane. I don't lift 300 pound weights, I don't run 30 miles a day, and I don't inject myself with steroids in order to perform. I try to work out every day for at least 15 minutes. But usually, my routine lasts from 40 to 60 minutes. I am not buff. I am (somewhat) toned, but I don't have huge muscles and bulging veins. Most riders don't. But top riders will all agree that having a strong core is very important in order to progress in your riding. And by core, I don't just mean abs. Your thighs, biceps and shoulders all need work as well. Heck, every part of your body works when you ride. But in order for your horse to be able to depend on you for balance, your core must be engaged and strong enough to balance a 1200 pound acorn-brained animal. There are plenty of exercises that mimic the feels that a rider experiences while on a horse. This article from Dressage Rider Training has excellent advice and workouts to do in order to target exactly what muscles you want to strengthen in order to improve your riding. If you don't have the time or energy to do a huge routine every day, then don't! Do what is best for you and your body, you know your needs and limits. So, do you need to be buff? No. Should you work for the strength that you want to achieve in your riding? Absolutely.
Commentaires