[Lonannuniel]

I have been riding all my life, so its not like riding is a new activity for my body. Its been 10 yrs so i should be fit enough to ride how i do. I am a dressage rider, and at my level im not doing anything too demanding. Kai ( my horse) is fit, and he doesn't become out of breath, or start huffing and puffing, but i do. I don't think i hold my breath while i ride... does anyone have any breathing technecs that i could try?

 

[Scoutrider]

I hold my breath at the canter sometimes. I used to more at the trot, but then I'd get awful side aches so I managed to break myself of it at the trot. The only advice that I can really give is to consciously remind yourself to breathe. Shoot, I've been known to ride around muttering to myself "Heels down, elbows at hips, thumbs up, back straight, breathe, chin up, watch heels, keep breathing..." It takes a while, but soon it becomes habit just like the rest of equitation.