Exercise to improve position / stability

[Walrus]

Right, whilst furloughed from work I need something to keep me motivated. I have read loads about core work, pilates etc that helps riding. I think I have worked out that my fundamental problems are tight hips and general floppiness and instability in the saddle.

Can anyone recommend any idiot proof books or online resources they have used to help. And how often did you exercise and when did you see an effect. I have to admit I try things a couple of times and then give up so so know i need to stick at something for longer!! I also find a lot of the pilates exercises very subtle and i dont always feel I'm having much of an effect?
Idiot proof (and cheap, currently furloughed!) rexommendations welcome . thank you.

 

[Wheels]

Pilates and core work is great but dont neglect the rest of your body is my advice. If you are not feeling pilates having an effect then you aren't doing it right I'm afraid

There are loads of places doing online classes right now that are not expensive and there is lots of stuff on youtube.

I dont specifically do pilates, I prefer full body workouts that include some core work and pilates type exercises. I like lifting weights and i have a bench etc at home but there are lots of bodyweight exercises you can do if you dont have weights and dumbbells.

I also spent a few years in the gym getting weekly PT sessions so got some great exercises and feedback on keeping the right form etc.

Heather Robertson is someone I follow on youtube, she has a free 12 week follow along programme which I'm currently doing but do my own sessions too.

Another good one who describes different exercises very well but doesn't do follow alongs is AthleanX.

Have a search on youtube and find someone you like but it's worth getting proper lessons if you can too.

How long did it take to notice a difference? Probably 2-3 months of 3 sessions a week.

 

[mini_b]

FitOn app

it’s so user friendly, you can “join” with a friend, it tracks your progress.

there’s tons of Pilates and strengthening work using your own body weight.
you can choose your level of ability, the time you want to exercise for, whether you have equipment or not
The videos are clear, easy to follow and have a big timer on so you know how long you have left before you can lie very still in a puddle of sweat.

Seconding that if you can’t feel Pilates, you aren’t doing it right. It’s super important to have correct form otherwise you’re just waggling your arms and legs about. I’m absolutely rubbish at things like this so the videos really helped me with what


and it’s FREEEEEEEE

think there’s some kind of premium option which also worked out pretty cheap but you don’t need it.

hope this helps x

 

[Trinket12]

Dressage Rider Training on you tube, short yoga routines specific to riders and core exercises as well. I was using them before the lockdown and use a lot more now!

 

[Walrus]

Thanks all, I have been googling the stuff mentioned. Its given me the kick up the backside to try and sustain something for longer than a session! Done 2 home workouts now, combination of hit, core and then some stretches targeting the hips. ??

 

[AFB]

Pilates is very easy to cheat at - if you're not feeling the benefit then you're likely falling in to that trap. It really does benefit from a good instructor being able to be hands on which is obviously not an option at the moment, but for future reference.