Any horsepeople out there trying to lose weight?

Calling all horsepeople! Anyone else thinking of their horses when you're slimming down? It's definitely been a factor for me- thinking of being lighter on his back and making the experience more enjoyable for the both of us!!!

I just assumed care and ownership of a horse I've been riding for years now. As part of it, I moved him to a barn by my work so I can save money by providing him with full care. This is my first week and I've noticed that my life has changed dramatically. For the better, for sure, but a big black hole has fallen over my schedule, especially where my regular work outs used to fit in. After work when I used to hit the gym, I am instead at the barn.

Any suggestions for fitting in workouts around such a time commitment? I know stall cleaning and riding burn cals, but I need more cardio. Anyone else have the same thing? And, at the very least, we can just talk about horses. :)

Happy to talk horses!  :)  I'm a 20 y/o student who's been riding since 6.  I also rode my horse for years before I took over her ownership when I was 17.  Horses are one of the most important things in my life, and I've definitely thought about that aspect during my weight loss quest.  Not sure what kind of riding you do, but I know I'd like to look better in a pair of breeches :P Beyond that, of course, I want to be a lighter and softer rider, as well as have better stamina and position.  I'm sure my mare would appreciate a stronger seat and a lighter rider when whether we're jumping or on the trails :).  I also want to become a more avid competitor someday, and I hope with weight loss will come confidence that I can apply to that.

I just started an office job, so before my 9:30 shift begins I'm trying to fit in a morning workout, since after work I need to rush through traffic to make it to the barn before dark.  Is a morning gym visit a possibility for you?  I've even thought about riding really early, but I don't want to cut out of my horse's breakfast time since she's pasture kept.

What does your full-care program entail?  Do you have to feed him?  If not, maybe you can give him a couple days off during the week and make those your workout days, if all else fails.  I currently have a sponsor riding my horse 2-3 days a week, which gives me a little extra money and time (though it's hard to share ;)) 

I'd be happy to be a weightloss- and horse-pal!

Good luck,

Jenna

Hi Jenna,

thanks for responding! Yeah, I wouldn't mind looking better in a pair of breeches either. And,  my horse is 17 years old so I wouldn't mind taking some more pounds off his back. I mostly do trail riding but am starting to learn some dressage, which has been fun.

Morning workouts and definitely a possibility, if I can get my A** out of bed. I am realizing that after work is just not gonna happen, that is my ride/care time. I do have to feed him, but I am going to try and trade with someone else a few nights a week so I can get some workouts in. I CAN'T work out every morning, it'll kill me.

I'll add you to my friends list!

Hi there,

I used to be a professional equestrian for many years prior to transitioning to an office job several years ago (bad back injury made it impossible to be on my feet all that time, and I couldn't ride multiple horses that jarred me when I rode...let's face it, when you're the trainer..you have to ride the horses when they're bad!).  However, I have a few bits of wit that I can share with you that I've learned from my time on both sides of the fence.

First, you can do some Pilates/yoga routines while watching tv, and that includes those balance balls.  Twenty minutes several times a week will improve your stamina, balance, flexibility and strength dramatically...and will also help those breeches look better on you when you notice those pounds slipping away.

You could also try purchasing a couple of light dumbbell weights and add those to your ball routine, so that you get a bit more isometric strength and muscle definition.

In addition to that, I'm a big fan of swimming...has been a lifesaver for me and my back.  Not only does it help with your overall fitness, it does wonders for your sanity...along the lines of what a good grooming and visit with our four-legged friends does for each of us!

Good luck to you!

Ariel