Training for Dressage

Training for Dressage

Dressage is a physically demanding sport; not just for the horse but for the rider as well.  Here are some of the key muscles used by the rider during dressage and how to train them:

Iliopsoas

Iliacus and Psoas Muscles Combine to form Iliopsoas



Iliopsoas is key to controlling and maintaining good posture on the horse.  This muscle group prevents you from tilting backward.  Two good exercises for iliopsoas are side plank and single leg raises.  Single leg raises are simple:  lie on your back and raise each leg separately until straight above - then lower to the floor.  Below is a good photo of side plank:

Side Plank





Abdominals

Strong abdominals work to hold your erect posture on top of the horse.  Low plank and crunches are great exercises for developing strong abs.

Low Plank

Adductor and Abductor Muscles

These muscles move the legs together and apart respectively.  These are important for maintaining control of your position on the animal.  Below are a couple of good exercises for adductors and abductors:

Adductor/Abductor Machine

The Adductor/abductor machine is excellent if your gym has one.  Most machines like this are dual purpose - they reconfigure in a few seconds to apply resistance inward or outward depending which exercise you want to do.  Plié Squat (pictured below is great for inner thighs - the adductor muscles).

Plie Squat with Weight

These are but just a few of the major muscles used in equestrian and dressage.  A well-rounded training program and a lot of riding, are important for the overall fitness that is required for dressage.

Tom

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