Yoga & Flexibility

[Princess Filly]

I was wondering if anyone does yoga or any other exercises to improve their flexibility when riding. I do a little yoga from a helpful book called "Yoga For Equestrians." Anyone else read the book?

[kedwards]

I haven't read that book, but I have done yoga and stretching exercises specifically for riding. I haven't been doing them lately and boy do I feel the difference, especially in my hips and inner thighs. Outside of time in the saddle, I strongly believe that a good stretching routine is one of the most helpful things you can do for your riding.

By the way, how do you like the book?

[anuvb]

Yoga is great to build up your muscles and flexibility.

I've been doing it on and off for about 3 years now and find that the exercises really make a difference to my overall tone and flexibility - put it this way I can really notice the difference if I don't do some stretches.

However, it is like most sports and keep-fit type activities if you are planning on taking it seriously you need to get a good instructor otherwise you can end up doing yourself damage by over-stretching muscles and ligaments if you just follow the books and videos that are available.

I'd also be interested in knowing how you found the book. I can't get to my yoga classes as much as I would like to, so any book that is clear in it's descriptions would be a benefit right now! :)

[Princess Filly]

The book is very helpful and helps you to understand the different exercises clearly. I feel that I have become more flexible from doing yoga and I am able to ride better. I read about the book in an issue of Horse Illustrated. I did a search online and ordered it off of Amazon. Here's a linkYoga For Equestrians (http://http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1570761361/qid%3D1043000655/sr%3D11-1/ref%3Dsr%5F11%5F1/002-1833501-7014450)

[Nich]

Hi = I'd like to get this book but the link doesn't work for me. I do Iyenga yoga with a fab instructor. I'm not the most flexible in the class but I do sit up the straightest, which my instructor thinks is a testament to riding! All the same instructions - sit tall, seat bones point down, shoulder blades slide down your back etc!
A good exercise is to sit down on the mat, feet together in prayer position, hold your toes, back straight and pull yourself forward by your toes - it opens up the hips.

[Perdita]

It might be this one.....

http://www.horseandriderbooks.com/yoga.html

otherwise, just try going to this site and doing a search.
Hope this works, but I am not known for my computer expertise:D

[Perdita]

Yay!! :p

[Nich]

thanks - it worked - off to Amazon as the publishers only seem to ship within the states