Summer vacation is heading towards an end and maybe it’s time to replace your swimwear for workout clothes?

To develop as a rider, it’s important that you start with yourself. A riders body demands balance and strength. Therefore, it’s a good idea to also train your own body when you’re not in the saddle. We had a chat with Johanna Norell, dressage rider and personal trainer, and got her best motivation tips on how you get started with your “off horse” training. Take a look!

1.

Find your why.

We have all been there, where we are questioning ourselves whether we have the strength and energy to work out. Once you’ve found your why it will become a lot easier to get the workout done, even if your motivation drops right then and there. We all have our different reasons for working out and it can have to do with wanting to be more stable in your riding or just wanting to avoid wearing out your body at the stable. By reaching your milestones, you are shaping a new and positive habit that is lasting and one that you yourself have chosen.

2.

Set up milestones

Having goals which are too difficult to attain can feel a bit overwhelming. Set realistic milestones.

For example – one milestone can be that you want to work out twice a week or be able to run 5 kilometers within x number of weeks. Whenever you reach your goal (because I know you will), make sure to celebrate! Perhaps you buy something you’ve been wanting for a very long time or you book a training weekend with your friend.

3.

Keep it simple

Working out doesn’t have to be as complicated as you might think. Workout from home or why not a short session outside the stable, while your horse is resting. As a rider I believe that your workouts should be easily accessible and easily performed so that you actually get the workouts done. Today there are many different options, including online workouts especially for riders so that you don’t have to create something yourself.

4.

Have a plan – and create a good routine

Without a plan it’s easy to feel a little lost. The same way as you plan your training with your horse, you should make sure to plan your own workouts. In addition to planning when to exercise, you will thank yourself if you also plan what to do and for how long.. If you have a good plan, you will be able to notice a big difference, regardless of whether you train in the stable, at home or at the gym.

5.

Workout together

There are many benefits with working out together. Not only is it fun, it’s also a good way to encourage and motivate each other. Arrange a workout session with your next-door neighbor at the stable.

6.

Give it some time

Sorry to say, but results rarely come overnight. Neither on the horse, nor with your training. Don’t give up though! Stick to your plan for a period of time and you will notice the difference shortly. As soon as you get positive results, it will immediately become more fulfilling and fun

7.

Reach out for help

You will find a lot of different training advice and it might tend to make you confused and frustrated. Am I doing this the right way? What suits me? and so on. Obviously, anything is better than nothing, but if you are unsure and if you want to develop as a rider I strongly recommend reaching out for help. Today there are many fitness trainers out there and some of them are even focused specifically on riders. This will most certainly help you to develop quicker.