Pre-Ride Stretches (Rider)

[Doug]

Good Evening,

When I am riding I notice that it takes me a good 10 minutes to get my leg into the (properly) correct position; it seems to be that I need to stretch before I jump on the horse so I was wondering if anyone could recommend good stretches to do?

I am specifically looking at stretches to open up my hip, groin and upper quads. I only ride a couple times a week but I play other sports which don't require the same leg position so my normal stretches aren't that effective.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Cheers

 

[Palindrome]

This is a stretch you do on the horse but helps with hip and leg. So when you are in the saddle your lift one tight away from the saddle and slightly backward (the rest of the body shouldn't move). Then you do the other and repeat a few times each, holding it for longer/farther as you get stronger.

 

[Pearlsasinger]

in a mounted physio session, I was given an exercise to help with a stiff hip - stand in the stirrup at halt or walk. I must admit, I find it easier to do at walk going uphill.

Another is to remain sitting on seat bones with upper body in correct position, with lower legs in front of the saddle, again at halt and in walk.