Core Strength

In my mind, core strength is more than just a strong core. My opinion is that inner strength is also part of the concept. Core Strength, for me, means mental strength to continue despite adversities, to keep fighting when it feels like you can no longer cope, to be able to focus despite distractions, to influence others to stay calm and positive in unforeseen situations, and of course to have strength, flexibility and control of the core.

All of the above is of utmost importance for equestrian athletes, but also for practitioners of virtually all sports I’d say, and to be honest in everyday life of most people.

Being able to focus when you have an early rail or a misstake at the beginning of the dressage program. Motivating and helping the horse to avoid making a mistake even though the lactic acid is building up. To cope with the last kilometer in the cross country course, when both horse and rider have maximum heart rate and sweat running. To continue the course or program even though someone on the stand is interfering or the rain is poring down. To quickly regain concentration and control if your horse has been frightened by something.

All of these are typical examples of things happening on the course in all disciplines, but also similar scenarios, without horses of course, in other sports and in everyday life.

So for me, burpees, side planks and mountain climbers are not enough to build core strength. I want to identify your weak spots, so these can be strengthened. It may well be that the exercises mentioned are needed in that work, but to get a stronger core, we have to look at the big picture.