Table of Contents

Introduction: Riding in Balance
My Story
The Five Rider Fundamentals
Overcoming Challenges
Exercises
Simple Exercise Equipment
More Nuts and Bolts

Fundamental 1: Mental Focus
Coordinate Your Breathing with Movement
Exercises to Coordinate Breathing with Movement

Fundamental 2: Proper Posture
23 What Is Balance?
26 Anatomy of Posture
Exercises to Align Your Spine
Exercises to Engage your Deep Abdominal and Back Muscles
Exercises to Strengthen Your Core
Exercises to Stabilize Spinal Alignment
Exercises for Symmetry and Lateral Balance

Fundamental 3: Body Control: Legs
Anatomy of Legs
Exercises for Gluteal and Hamstring Muscles
Stretches for Gluteal and Hamstring Muscles, and External Rotators
Exercises for Adductor and Abductor Muscles
Exercise for the Quadriceps Muscle
Exercises for the Iliopsoas Muscle
Exercises for Differentiating Movement in the Hip Joint, Pelvis, and Spine
Exercise to Learn Core Stability with Leg Movement
More Pain Issues

Fundamental 4: Body Control: Arms
Anatomy of Arms
Exercises to Connect the Arms, Shoulder Girdles, and Torso
Common Arm Position and Function Challenges

Fundamental 5: Understanding Movement
Exercises to Develop Independent Movement
Exercise for Supple Elbows
Riding Exercise to Improve Sitting Trot
Riding Exercise to Improve Transitions
Riding Exercise to Improve Timing of Aids

Final Comments
Learn More!
Quick Reference: Rider Fundamental Exercises
Suggested Workouts
Bibliography
Index