HOEKSTRA DRESSAGE INC.

News and Events

Aug.15.08.

Walter Zettl auditor registration forms are available for the Oct 11th & 12th clinic.

Jul.06.08.

HDI would like to thank the riders and auditors that attended the Walter Zettl dressage clinic on July 5th & the 6th. Please check the website in late summer for more information about the October clinic.

May.29.08.

Portrait of a Master - Jan Kluijtmans, Holland

May.14.08.

What is Fit!

Riding & Fitness Clinics 2007 & 2008

HDI in conjunction with Nu Bodies Fitness hosted a Riding & Fitness Clinic over the last two years. Participants spent the day learning how fitness training can improve their riding skills by training with stability balls and resistance bands to improve their balance and coordination.

By improving your physical fitness you can further your existing riding abilities. Toning your abdominals for dressage, or strengthening leg and ankle joints for cross country and show jumping is essential. A higher level of fitness will make your reactions quicker and improve your balance, flexibility and endurance. If you are in the best shape possible you will compete effectively or just enjoy your ride more.

Thank you to Cynthia Huskilson of Nu Bodies Fitness and all the participants that contributed to the success of the clinics over the last two years!

Cynthia`s Fitness Tip - ``Core strength should be the 'core' of any good fitness routine.``

Your core is made up primarily of your Abdominals, Obliques and Lower Back and also includes the Gluteus. These muscles are so important to a rider because they are responsible for balance and posture. Strong core muscles can help prevent injuries and make your riding experience safer and more enjoyable. Having a strong core will also improve your endurance while riding as weak muscles can prevent you from riding longer periods of time. It is important to include exercises for all parts of the core as strengthening one part without rest can cause imbalance and overall weakness.

Try doing a range of exercises such as crunches to focus on abdominals, side bends to focus on obliques, lower back extensions to focus on the lower back and gluteus. There are many exercises that will help build your core strength. Ask a trainer in your gym for help with these and other effective exercises.

Cynthia Huskilson, Certified Personal Trainer, Nu Bodies Fitness & Tanning World, www.nubodiesfitness.com