Hello, getting back in the saddle in my 30's - in Holland!

[rmriver]

Hello, I am a returning rider, older and hopefully a bit wiser!
I grew up riding welsh ponies and Cob mixes in the hills of South Wales, lots of local shows, jumping, bit of cross country and a lot of hacking. I only realise now what freedom and luxury i enjoyed as i return to riding in my mid 30's in Holland. I am having private lessons to regain my confidence and dust off my technique but hoping to buy a horse of my own and find a friendly stable to hack and enjoy. I find i have the muscle memory but not the strength, any advice for a rider coming back to it appreciated!

 

[sbloom]

How about a rider conditioning programme such as:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/507725203764342
https://www.facebook.com/activateyourseat
https://www.facebook.com/RefinedRiding

 

[SheriffTruman]

Welcome! I'm also in The Netherlands. I returned to riding in my forties. Strength came back gradually as I rode more.

Rider fitness is a great idea, like here: https://dressagetoday.com/rider-wellness/rider-fitness. (Though I'm generally to lazy to exercise after work and yard chores. Hoping said chores will me make me stronger!)

 

[I don’t like mondays]

Hi, I came back into riding after a long break too. My brain knew what to do but my body didn’t have the strength it used to. I was fit (from the gym) but not riding fit. I could plank etc but sitting to a horse with big paces was a different matter. The best way I found to get fit is time in the saddle (and patience and not being hard on yourself). Your strength will return (as will an addiction to horses!!)

 

[ycbm]

I can't help about coming back to it but welcome!