Pilates for improved riding?

[junglefairy]

I have never really given Pilates much thought, but was speaking to some on yesterday who mentioned that it is great for core strengthening. I think core strength is vital for good balance and riding in general.

Has anyone else has taken up Pilates and found it has improved your riding?

 

[my bfg]

Sort of, my physio uses a lot of Pilate's type moves on my dodgy back and I have found it has helped to relax my lower back whilst riding

 

[dangermouse]

I have problems with my hip and started Pilates just before Christmas found it helped hip problem and general flexibility, so although early days but I think it's good.

 

[starryeyed]

Yes, pilates is very good for riding & core strength. I prefer yoga so go to those classes a couple of times a week, you don't feel as if you're doing a lot at the time but you feel it the day afterwards and I always notice when I miss some sessions!

 

[p87]

I used to do pilates and when I stopped going I noticed my balance and 'lengthening' of my legs weren't as good as they had been, definitely helps with riding

 

[claracanter]

This is sort of related.....I have done yoga for several years and then I heard about a pilates for riders class. I thought that would be great and it would be more specific than general yoga and just target core etc. Anyway I went along for a trial session and found it less effective that the yoga I was already doing. I'm not in anyway saying pilates is a waste of time. I thought however, this specific class was just someone trying to cash in. So IMO you are just as well doing regular pilates than for riders

 

[D66]

The classes are only as good as the teachers - yoga or pilates -yoga should have a spiritual dimension that pilates doesn't. I started pilates in the summer to try to get back to riding effectively, it has helped but we're not there yet. Did yoga many years ago and stopped when I moved house away from the teacher.
Go for it.

 

[junglefairy]

Sounds positive, I'll definitely have to give it a go.

 

[Hippona]

I do it for my back, but it helps with my riding

 

[SaffronWelshDragon]

Having got the 'Pilates for Riders' book by Lindsay Wilcox-Reid for Christmas, I'm fascinated and am sure this is the way forward for me. I'm struggling to find any classes in my area though

 

[Elbie]

There is someone who does workshops in Essex but I don't think they are regular (and they would cost a bit to go to regularly!)

I have a few pilates DVDs (for general pilates, not riding specific) and have found they improved my core. I also got a book for Christmas called "Riding from the Inside Out" which is good and provides exercises for improving your position