Runners and Riders

As I'm sure some of you will have noticed, horse riding is taking up a fair bit of my time at the moment and, whilst I'm totally loving it, it means that I've not been able to spend as much time at the gym as I'd like. However, this week I've managed to fit in three visits and I've ran a grand total of 9 km (a tad disappointing given that my weekly total used to be 15 but I'm not going to beat myself up about it) and, whilst running the other night, I got to thinking about the similarities between horse riding and running and here's what I came up with.

Running

1. Lipstick is optional but I always wear it.

2. Warm up first. I always have a brisk 2 minute walk which not only loosens my muscles but also gives me time to focus. Always cool down too with some stretches.

3. Relax your shoulders and hands (try not to clench your fists, it does make a difference).

4. Keep your back straight and run through your hips and core.

5. Breathe.

6. Pace yourself. Don't take off like a greyhound out of a trap because the chances are you'll just crash and burn.

7. When you think it's time to give up, don't - push yourself just that little bit further (not to the point of collapse though!).

8. Pat yourself on the back. You deserve it!

Riding

1. Lipstick is optional but I always wear it. Application of lipgloss is not necessary for the horse though.

2. Warm up your horse first. A nice steady walk for a short while should do the trick. Cool him down afterwards too.

3. Relax your hands (try to envisage holding coffee cups or, in my case teacups), legs and shoulders. Any feeling of tenseness will transmit to your horse and this may not make for the most comfortable of rides.

4. Keep your back straight, ride through your hips and use your core for balance.

5. Breathe.

6. Maintain a steady rhythm and feel your horse's motion.

7. If things aren't quite going to plan and your horse is acting like Kevin the Teenager, don't give up and, most of all, don't lose your patience or temper. A balance of assertiveness and kindness will usually win the day.

8. Pat your horse. He or she will deserve it!

So, you see, there are plenty of similarities. One other thing, enjoy what you're doing. When something becomes a chore, it's time to give up.

In case you're wondering about today's image, it started off as somewhat of a joke on Twitter and was very kindly drawn by the wonderful Henry Jones. Henry is uber talented and you can see some more of his wonderful work here. Well worth a look. You can also catch up with his wit, wisdom and wonderful humour here on Twitter.

(Ps For the ladies out there who'd like to take up running, I can't recommend "Run For Life - The Real Woman's Guide to Running" by Sam Murphy highly enough which is full of great, practical advice.)

(PPs If you're more horsey inclined, I'm reading "Perfect Manners" by Kelly Marks at the moment and am thoroughly enjoying it.)