Equestrian Fitness Training 

"Balanced Training for Better Riding" 

You are the biggest factor in your horse's way of going.  Off-horse or dryland training which helps you with posture, alignment and correct movement patterns will help you ride better.  EQUIFITT clinics, ebooks and individualized rider programs draw from a variety of fitness and sport conditioning methods to help you achieve the suppleness, stamina and gymnastic symmetry that will help you ride well whether you are an amateur riding just a few times a week, or a professional and noticing the wear and tear on your body.

Riding uses particular muscles and movement patterns different from other sport.  Like other sport, involvement in riding alone is not enough to get you fit for riding.  Although we seek symmetry in riding, riding itself creates asymmetrical strength and tightness in your body because of the muscles used, and how they are used.  Riding on its own leads to strength imbalances which can lead to repetitive strain or referred strain issues in you, and imbalance in your horse. 

Creating balance and flexibility, muscle memory, proprioception (body awareness), core strength and cardio-vascular endurance (stamina for long show days/ long rides) is more effective when you can work on these areas out of the saddle between your rides.  Working off horse allows you to take your muscles through their full range of motion, reducing the occurrance of knots and risk of strain injury, while improving your ability to absorb your horse's motion.  Working off-horse also allows you to take the time you need to re-set your body's muscle memory patterns or sense of 'straight' so that you can apply accurate aids, and use biomechanics to assist your horse correctly.    

Specifically, off-horse work improves:

• Balance and physical stamina
• Better alignment and more correct posture
• Decreased risk of back, muscle and joint strain and fatigue
• More effective and precise aids in the saddle
• More energy, self-confidence and focus
• Increased flexibility
• Improved body awareness and neuro-muscular control for better response to sudden demand, and independent aids

If you knew the only thing that separated you from better riding and less risk of injury or strain was about 15-30 additional minutes a day of training you could do from your home or barn without expensive equipment- what would stop you from starting today?

With EQUIFITT training programs, you can go to a gym if you want to.  But you don't have to.  We specialize in equestrian-specific, individualized training programs to help you get from where you are, to where you want to be.   Whether you want to get back in the saddle, or stay there, or get to the podium, there is an appropriate fitness plan for you.  Clients range from Olympic team members and competitive athletes, to pleasure riders, to non-riding horse-people who would like to avoid injury and repetitive strain common to choring and horse-care.  Equestrian clients include: para-equestrian, polo, Western pleasure, reining, dressage, hunter/jumper, endurance/competitive trail. 

Like sport-conditioning in other fields, off-horse fitness for equestrians accelerates neuro-muscular development and physical ability in ways which have a direct impact on your sport performance.  Whether you are an occasional pleasure rider, or competitive athlete, cross-training directly impacts your posture and ability to give effective aids in the saddle, and respond to sudden demand while avoiding injury. 

EQUIFITT specializes in helping you improve your riding skill and enjoyment, and avoid strain associated with barn choring through off-horse exercises that target specific muscle groups and issues common to riding and choring.

EQUIFITT uses best practices in fitness training and programs draw from a variety of fitness methods including pilates, yoga and sport conditioning to create a balanced approach you can manage without alot of equipment or need to fit gym time into your schedule. 

Clinics are designed to provide participants with immediate feedback on posture, alignment and body usage and relevant off-horse exercise recommendations to help each rider achieve the desired outcome in the saddle.  EQUIFITT can also be available for at-show coaching and support through warmup routines, stretching and relaxation, facilitated stretch therapy and assistance with preparation and de-stress rituals using sport psychology principles.

Whether you are an amateur or occasional rider, or a competitive athlete, you can benefit from balanced conditioning which helps you develop the strength and flexibility you need to make the most of your time in the saddle, and your investment in riding.  While any complementary fitness activity can help you cross-train, a personalized and sport-specific program targeted to your needs as an individual will have greater impact. 

Whether you're riding or caring for your horses, why not maximize your ability to do what you love, longer and better.  Avoid 'weekend warrior' injuries and strain, and achieve the self-carriage you expect of your horse- so you can help him get there more effectively.

Online Coaching : Get a personalized training plan, virtually anywhere without waiting for a clinic near you.

An 'online coach' option is available for riders who would like a personalized equestrian training program, but are not geographically close to the EQUIFITT studio for personal fitness training.  Programs include weekly or bi-weekly phone support, weekly email support and program re-set to ensure your training plan evolves as you progress toward your goals.  Assessment and program set-up are accomplished through photo or video analysis of your riding posture.  Health history and riding priorities are discussed over the phone much like they would be in an in-person assessment.  Programs can be designed entirely for application at your home or barn, or incorporate gym equipment if you have access to a gym.  All programs address the same key areas a personal training program covers: nutritional requirements, cardio-vascular endurance, strength balancing, stamina, flexibility & balance and core strength. 

It's the perfect solution for getting the 'edge' you need on your riding fitness, wherever you are.  Download more information, or testimonials.

 Online Coaching Testimonial:

"Heather has a wonderfully positive attitude and it is contagious – even through online training.  Her knowledge is easily transferred through phone conversations and detailed emails.  My program was clear and concise and Heather was available by email to answer any questions I might have, as well as providing motivational follow-up messages. I look forward to expanding my online training with her in the new year!" Laura, pleasure rider

"The advantage of the online program was that I could work with a qualified trainer who has experience working with equestrians, regardless of geographical distance.  The exercises were clearly explained to me on the phone and accompanied by pictures and support documents sent by email.  The weekly phone conversation helped me keep on track and allowed me to ask questions about my program.  Heather tailored my program, taking my needs and schedule into consideration.  She made frequent adjustments.  It has been a great way to be in an exercise program and develop daily exercise habits. I am still following the program three months later!" Sylvia, Western rider.

“I decided this would be the year that I started treating myself like the athlete that I expect my horses to be. I made the decision to work with Heather to guide me in my quest because she understands my sport and the issues I face both as an equestrian and a farm owner. Heather was able to view a video of me riding and quickly focus in on my weak areas and recommend exercises to address them. Before I began my program I almost always had pain or stiffness in my hips when I was not on a horse and now I almost NEVER do! I have realized numerous other benefits, including improved stamina and body control while in the saddle, and being able to see my abs for the first time in my life :) I am so pleased I made the investment into developing my own fitness and I expect that it will continue to pay me back in so many ways I hadn't even contemplated before.”   Lori, 45 yrs, Third Level Dressage

Personal Fitness Programs for Equestrians

Equestrian Fitness Testimonial:

"I spend alot of time and money working on my horse's performance.  I finally wised up to understand that I was part of the team as well.  It only made sense that my fitness as well as my horse's fitness had to be addressed.  Heather's program is helping me improve my abilities as a rider." Liz, 52yrs, riding experience over 30yrs

"I noticed improvement in my position and breakthroughs in my riding one month after Heather did my mounted evaluation and gave me my exercise program.  Specifically, I have noticed significant improvement in my lateral work.  I was only able to do small leg yields from a few feet away from the boards.  now I can do them on a full diagonal line and with nice rhythm.  I'm thrilled!" Deb, 53yrs, Level 1 Dressage Rider  

EQUIFITT recognizes that riders are busy, so personal training sessions can be spaced at a frequency that works for you.  A program typically lasts for six weeks, at which point you will need your program re-set so that your body does not plateau. 

Like any balanced sport training program, equestrian programs cover complete body training within the EQUIFITT balanced approach, but are designed to specifically enhance your riding and horsecare fitness needs. 

For riders, the initial consultation includes a session observing you ride and discussion of your needs and goals with your coach, if applicable. To bridge the gap between your fitness training and better riding, it is important to target fitness training areas that will help with your particular riding issues and goals.

Basic components of an equestrian fitness program include:

• Initial Assessment: posture, alignment, fitness evaluation - can include mounted observation
• Program design to match your individual fitness goals and riding needs or horse-care requirements
• Food log monitoring and guidance (ongoing within sessions)
• Personal Training sessions at a frequency that matches your budget, goals and training level (1-3 times per week, every two weeks, or occasionally; private or semi-private sessions are an option)
• Re-analysis at 6-week intervals to assess your progress and reset your program (ongoing within sessions)
• A copy of your program, food log and other relevant training and fitness information

Clinics and Workshops

Client Quote on Equestrian Fitness Classes:

"Heather's class has improved my riding a lot.  The core work we do helps.  I find I feel more in control when I'm riding.  The muscles in my legs and my core seem stronger, and I have better balance and control of my body." Tanya, reining rider 

Workshops & Clinics 

Workshops typically last two-three hours, and are conducted on location at your riding facility, or other designated facility. Participants receive helpful hand-outs and resources, and content covers fitness basics with an opportunity to learn and try various helpful exercises.

Clinics can be a half-day or full-day, depending on the number of participants. At a clinic, fitness assessment includes mounted observation where alignment, posture and other fitness issues are observed.  Mounted observation notes are combined with an off-horse fitness assessment for each participant.  A final step includes a workshop where riders learn applicable fitness principles and exercises, and receive individual exercise recommendations and other take-home material. 

Clinics can also address show preparation, or be conducted in a co-clinician format where riding observation is done during a riders' lesson with another clinician, and off-horse work is done privately with the rider during the untack period.  This format ensures the seamless flow for the primary clinician.  Piggy-backing clinics can make scheduling easier.

Clinic fees are very affordable.  Rider fees include written feedback to take home, clinic workshop handouts, subscription to free monthly fittips and email support in the two weeks following the clinic.  Auditors receive clinic handouts, fittips subscription and may participate actively in the clinic workshop portion, as well as ask questions during riding observation.

The co-clinic option helps when scheduling is a bit tight.  As a co-clinician, Heather Sansom observes the rider during their lesson with the principal clinician or their riding coach.  Observations and recommendations are given to the rider after their ride.

A new combined clinic is also available with sport psychologist April Clay.

Download Workshop and Clinic Flyer for Your Barn!

Download information on the new Combined Mind Body Clinic with Equifitt and sport psychologist, April Clay

Download information about the NEW Yoga and Rider Fitness Clinic Option with Louise Sattler of www.gallopingyoga.com

Clinics, workshops and small group classes can be organized to work for you- if you think there may be interest at your barn or group, contact EQUIFITT and let's see what we can put together.

Clinics & Workshops in 2008/2009:

Starlit Farms         Eastern Ontario Horse's of Course         Franklands' Farm

Steven's Creek Farm/Oxford Downs Pony Club       UGuelph Kemptville 

Emard Stables   Reithof Rumke  Patanal Farms   Bromont Farm Dressage      

Winddance Lane Sporthorses & Arena Footing    EC Annual Convention '09

CanAm Equine Symposium '08    Blueprint Farm     OEF Conference '08   

Green Glen Farm (co-clinic with classical dressage master Paul Belasik)    

Twin Pines Equestrian Centre        Clovelly Stables (Newfoundland)  

Alingsview Stables    Huntleigh Equestrian Centre

Coveside Stables, Nova Scotia (co-clinic with US Olympic Team Member Lisa Wilcox)

RCMP Musical Ride Headquarters (co-clinic with US Olympic Team Member Steffen Peters)

St-Lawrence & Ottawa Valley Pony Club Rally, Rideau Carleton Raceway,

Oakhurst Farm (eventing), Queenswood Stables (dressage),

Canadian Pony Club Annual Symposium, Ashton Rider Fitness Workshop,

Group Classes for Equestrians

For something a little different, added fun, and a way to help you get the most out of your time in the saddle, EQUIFITT can also run a series of weekly or bi-weekly group fitness classes at your riding facility or other location. Many clients follow-up on a clinic with a series of small group training classes that help keep you motivated and on track.  Small group training is a very affordable way to get semi-private instruction and follow-up, without full private training cost.  Contact EQUIFITT to discuss your requirements and inquire about availability.

TO ORGANIZE A FITNESS BOOTCAMP, WORKSHOP or CLINIC AT YOUR BARN, CONTACT EQUIFITT.

Yoga for Equestrians

EQUIFITT recommends yoga as part of a balanced training program for equestrians, particularly useful for flexibility and balance training.  Fitness programs draw inspiration from yoga for flexibility.  NEW: Equifitt now offers a combined Yoga & Rider Fitness Clinic option you can book as a clinic or an unmounted workshop at your facility.  Click HERE for more information. 

Fee Schedule

 Contact EQUIFITT for fees on the following:

Download Clinic Flyer for Your Barn