Happy New Year!

What have you got planned for 2016?

This is the time of year we all vow to become fitter, healthier and better people in the next 12 months. If you have got a health and fitness goal in mind why not make it fit in with your riding goals too?

For example, if this year you are determined to improve your transitions or your dressage scores, and you are also determined to shed half a stone, why not consider taking up Pilates or investing in a workout programme that focuses on shedding fat and improving your muscular strength and control at the same time? So you could be shedding the lbs and improving your riding at the same time?

If you do have a particular horse related goal this year, why not spend January concentrating on your own performance in the partnership rather than your horse? I think we are all guilty of blaming our horse when things don't happen as we'd like instead of looking at what areas we need to improve on before we can help our horse.

So, how is your posture? Are you symmetrical ? Are you adequately flexible and supple enough to give light but correct aids? How is your balance? Do you tire quickly when riding? These are all things that can have a huge impact on your horses performance and are all down to you.

Why not spend January investing the dark, rainy nights indoors to working on your own weaknesses in order to help your horse help you achieve your goals as a partnership this year?

Equestrian Fitness will be offering personalised exercise programmes for £25 throughout January.  You provide your exercise goals, background, riding goals, any issues and/or injuries and within 7 days I will provide you with a personalised 4 week exercise programme with accompanying videos. Just email nicola@equestrianfitness.co.uk for further info.

Also, let me know what your goals are and what riding issues you would like me to cover. I love to give you content I know you will find helpful!

Here's to a great 2016!

Nicola