Thursday, June 28, 2012

A Good Horsey Read

It's not very often that I get a chance to read so whilst on holiday last week I thought I would take advantage of my chill out time.  Therefore as recommended to me by my riding instructor I ordered the book "Ride with your mind" by Mary Wanless. 

I can't say previously I have ever really been a great fan of horsey books- prefering to learn in a more practical way.  But to my suprise it was a really great read, with practical and helpful tips focusing on how things happen and making the biomechanics of horse riding easy to learn.  It is also really helpful to have the various pitfalls and stumbling blocks highlighted so you can know what to look out for.  The book even has some exercises to do at home to help with your posture in the saddle and its easy to read a chapter at a time or a block if you prefer.   

Inspired by the book, I have continued with my regular lessons and to my surprise this weeks one was slightly less painful!!  I must be getting stronger :-)  I am also really enjoying riding in a treeless saddle now- I am not sure I could ever go back!  For further information on Mary and the Ride with your Mind Approach, why not visit the website.

So whilst I am horseless I am trying to do as much as I can out of the saddle to improve my fitness and posture.  The book introduced me to Equipilates but I have been unable to find a class nearby.  However I did discover a Fab Equipilates Website and I am looking forward to their dvd series!  But until then I have bought myself an Equipilates book so I will let you know how I get on with that...