Riding on the lunge is a great way to improve your riding and is a fantastic tool in helping develop a better seat. With the instructor controlling your horse, lunge lessons provide the perfect opportunity to focus on your position, your suppleness, and your balance. In this article we share some of our favourite exercises that focus on improving your lower body while riding.
Knee Lifts
This exercise promotes a better ride and feel through the saddle while encouraging your knees to relax when riding. Starting in a neutral pelvis position, work one leg at a time by lifting your knee up, out, and back down.
Pedaling
This exercise helps wake up your hips, engage your core, and is a great exercise to transition to from knee lifts. Similar to knee lifts, working one leg at a time lift your knee up and away from the saddle, and begin rotating your knees as though you are pedaling a bike.
Scissor Lifts
This exercise is great for engaging your hip flexors and core. Keeping your thighs and calves relaxed, work one leg at a time and lift your leg sideways out and away from the saddle. Hold this position for five seconds before returning to a neutral position.
Ankle Rolls
This exercise promotes overall ankle strength and flexibility. Keeping your leg in a relaxed position, in order to allow enough room between you and your horse, begin rotating your foot 5 times in each direction.
Tap Dancing
This exercise promotes flexibility and mobility in your feet and lower legs. Keeping your legs relaxed, begin alternating pointing your toes to the ground and pointing your toes to the ceiling with your heels down.
Remember when attempting these exercises it is important to consider the rider’s ability, and also the horse’s experience. For the best results when mounted, it is a great idea to practice and rehearse the exercises unmounted, either standing or sitting in a chair. For those who have completed these exercises mounted, and are looking for a bit more of a challenge, you can progress to attempting these exercises without stirrups. Remember to always take the advice of your instructor, and go at a pace that is suitable for both the rider and the horse.