Now Andy Murray has a bit more time on his hands after Wimbledon, we have found a great new workout for him to try at a local riding stables.
Unique programme
We are not suggesting Andy quits playing tennis to ride, but if he heads to Wimbledon Village Stables he can experience a unique training programme called Equicise.
As well as improving fitness and flexibility, Equicise is designed to help riders of all standards improve their position and technique. It features lessons on a life-sized dressage simulator along with a range of fitness, yoga and Pilates classes, tailored for equestrians.
According to Carol Andrews, owner of Wimbledon Village Stables, the more you develop your technique and fitness out of the saddle, the better you will ride.
“We all know how important it is to keep our horses in peak condition and it is just as important for riders,” said Carol. “This is why I developed this revolutionary new concept for equestrians.”
Monitor progress
Professional instructors create a bespoke programme to address the individual needs of their clients, with computerised printouts at the end of each session to help monitor progress.
Equicise’s simulator reveals a rider’s strengths and weaknesses thanks to its advanced sensors which track position, balance and accuracy of aids.
One of the most common faults with riders is a crooked seat. An equine simulator can pinpoint the problem areas, allowing riders to work on their position. This, in turn, benefits the horse’s performance, as they no longer have to compensate for an unbalanced rider.
Independent seat
Instructor Caroline Stevenson BHSI credits the Equicise simulator with helping clients refine their ability to give the correct aids.
“Unlike a real horse, which may try to guess what a rider is asking, the simulator only responds to correctly applied aids, teaching the rider to be more accurate,” she said.
It is also an invaluable tool for helping riders strengthen their core muscles and develop more flexible hip joints, both of which are essential for an independent seat.
In addition, those who have lost confidence or are returning to riding after a long break can benefit from Equicise. The simulator allows you to concentrate on your own performance without having to think about the horse’s behaviour.
Anyone can benefit from the Equicise – even world class tennis players – and your horse will thank you for it.