We have seen the people who embrace horse riding with perfect balance and poise, flowing together with the horse in perfect harmony. How can something seem so simple to some, and out of reach for the rest of us?

The secret is core strength. Strong abdominal muscles are the key to reducing back pain and the chance of injury while riding. Since balance on horseback is achieved from your abdomen, seat and legs, it only makes sense that if your core muscles are weak you will flop around in the saddle, have poor mounted posture, and be unable to avoid a fall. Low back pain is the result of trying to maintain your seat with a weak core; your back will take the brunt of keeping you straight in the saddle. Strengthening your core muscles is an important step to achieving any horse riding goal, whether it’s a safe trail ride or the challenges of endurance or jumping.

Many exercise programs address strengthening core muscles. Yoga and pilates are two that focus on balance and strengthening abdominal and lower back muscles while promoting greater flexibility. The most basic exercises in these programs help increase your balance and reduce back pain while horse riding.

Ab belts such as the Flex Belt are another way to strengthen your core; these use electronic nerve stimulation to contract your abdominal muscles, providing a targeted workout. Use these in conjunction with programs such as yoga and pilates for quicker results.

Not only is exercise important while horse riding for your safety, it is also extremely important for your horse. Equine back injuries can result from a horse compensating for the lack of balance in his rider.

You can achieve balance and safety in horse riding by strengthening your core muscles as part of your training program.