Great riding posture doesn’t just happen whilst we are riding….
Great riding posture is developed and dictated by what you do during each day. For instance, if you tend to slump over a computer for work, then your chest muscles will tighten, and your upper back muscles weaken creating an upper body muscle imbalance such as round shoulders.
The benefits of improving your posture is more than just when you ride. Good posture assists your bones and joints to keep correct alignment so your muscles can work properly, helping to alleviate imbalances. As your muscles begin to function properly with correct joint alignment this can also reduce ligament strain as ligaments assist to stabilise your joints.
As you age, it’s normal to have wear and tear on your joints as our body, however good posture can assist in preventing uneven wear on the surfaces of your joints potentially reducing symptoms of joint pain such as arthritis.
Good posture assists in preventing back pain and muscular aches, strains and overuse injuries as the muscles are being used in the way they were designed. As your body strengthens, you will be able to ride longer with less fatigue as a balanced body functions more efficiently, using less energy.
There are numerous exercises to assist with improving your posture, however you can begin immediately simply by correcting how you sit and walk each day. Take time to improve your body awareness and catch yourself in the act, over a few days you will notice you’ll naturally begin to stand taller and sit with better posture, and this will carry over into your riding.
The best part is that good posture looks great on horseback! You will enjoy riding feeling stronger and with more confidence!
If you would like to check out some simple exercises and stretches to assist with your posture, head on over to my Free Resources.
Happy Riding,
Mel
