Fitness Trends 2002

Whether you're a novice rider or a competitive jumper, its time to quit horsing around and get the most out of you and your horse! Pac Six Equestrian Program at Equinox Fitness Clubs will get you off your high horse and into the gym where you can hone your riding skills and techniques for maximum performance on the trails or in the riding ring. This is a six-week intensive training program specifically geared to develop muscles, balance and equilibrium, core stability and skills that will enhance your horseback riding technique for optimal performance and enjoyment.

It all started when Anne Kursinsky, (four time Olympian Horse Jumper) went to the gym at Equinox in NYC to find a way to train for career longevity and stay in peak condition for at least two more Olympics.

The specific demands of horseback riding and jumping fences eight and nine feet high translated into a series of fitness exercises to target the sport specific demands of riding and jumping.

Pac Six Equestrian training program incorporates wobble boards for balance, foam rollers to train the complex network of muscles in the feet for stability in the stirrups, and wide, half squats to strengthen muscles used to straddle a horses back. Decision making skills and visual perception drills are also part of the program to help riders judge distances and take off’s and landing when jumping.

Pac Six Equestrian allows you to improve your riding skills even when you can’t get in the saddle, assuring your next ride will be more confident and enjoyable.

Pac Six Equestrian is available at Equinox Fitness centers: www.equinoxnyc.com

Stephanie Oakes is a fitness correspondent for Discovery Health Channel, a contributing editor for USA Weekend Magazine and the LA Times, and appears on NBC's 'Today in New York'. She can be reached at soakes@beststuff.com.