Achy back...

[CLAUDIA]

Is it often that riders have back aches after riding? I don't experience any sharp pains or anything like that. It's only my lower back feeling tense and sore. I rode for around two hours yesterday working on trot/canter transitions. Probably nothing to worry about, right?

[Medalia]

Well, you shouldn't have a sore back, but there isn't a lot too worry about. If it's when your working fairly hard, then yes, it's okay. But if it's ANYTIME you sit on a horse, then no, it's not okay.

You might shift your weight unconsciencly, or you might feel tense because you don't really get what your trainer is saying.

[CLAUDIA]

Thanks Medalia :)

I do get tense when my coach is explaining something that I don't quite understand. I also get rather tense cantering, but I was pleased with myself yesterday because I was relaxed and calm the whole time I was riding. I hope I can continue feeling that way! :)

My back usually aches after riding intensely for over an hour. I'm just wondering if it's because this is new and I need to build up my muscles in new regions of my body. I'm hoping that's the case and that soon I won't ache. :)

[Farm_Girl5]

Your back hurting is quite normal as when your riding you use muscles in your back you never knew you had! Didn't I find that out the hard way. I rode for 3 hours straight when I was learning to ride and didn't I feel it the next day! OUCH! LOL
You'll be right in a few days!
Take care!
Kristy

[Myrmex]

No offence, but is your position 100%? I used to get real back-ache after riding, particularly any horse with quite bouncy action. Was at the point where I was beginning to think I'd never ride my bouncy Mish in comfort - then had some lessons specifically aimed at improving my position and hey presto! No more back-ache!

[Bets]

Thats an excellent point about posture. I'm still working on trot, but last week my instructor had me doing some excercises which involved leaning forward a bit and the next day I was hurting (lower back) really bad.
Look into that possibility...If not, try a good stretch before and after a long ride. A nice hot bath afterwards dosen't hurt either!!
Happy Riding!!
-Bets