You know that feeling when you're in the saddle, and everything just flows?
Your seat moves with the horse, your hands are soft yet effective, your legs communicate with precision. It feels effortless.
But then there are the other rides...
The ones where you feel like a block of wood. Your shoulders creep up, your arms stiffen, and your seat? Forget moving with your horse—you’re practically perching.
If stiffness is your riding struggle, you’re not alone.
Many riders deal with unnecessary tension in their shoulders, arms, hands, or torso. Not only does this impact your balance and responsiveness, but it also interferes with your horse’s ability to move freely, lift their back, and transition smoothly.
The good news? You can soften up by show season—with the power of better breathing.
Why Are You So Stiff?
Stiffness in the saddle can come from a few different places:
Anxiety & nerves – Maybe it's show jitters or fear of making a mistake.
Lack of support – Without internal stability, your body defaults to bracing.
Holding your breath – Without realizing it, you might be restricting your own movement.
All of the above – Because let’s be honest, these issues like to team up.
How Breathing Helps You Ride Softer
Your breath is more powerful than you think. It’s the key to unlocking better posture, relaxation, and control in the saddle. When you breathe well, you create support from the inside out. This means:
A stronger, more stable core without unnecessary tension.
Relaxed muscles that can respond instead of react.
A calmer mind, which tells your body it’s safe to let go.
Simple Ways to Breathe to Overcome Rider Stiffness
Want to shake off that wooden feeling? Start incorporating breathing exercises into your daily life—and your rides.
1. Check Your Breathing Throughout the Day
If you’re holding tension at your desk, in the car, or while scrolling your phone, you’ll carry it to the barn. Practice small, even breaths into your abdomen and lower ribs to build better habits.
2. Breathe With Intention in the Saddle
Before you mount up, take a few slow breaths, expanding through your lower ribs. Once in the saddle, do a quick body scan—where are you holding tension? Exhale and release it. If you feel comfortable, count how many strides your horse takes during your inhale. Repeat during your exhale.
3. Exhale During Transitions
Transitions require relaxation, responsiveness, and support from your body to your horse's. Exhaling as you ask for an upward or downward transition helps prevent bracing and allows your horse to move more fluidly.
The Bottom Line
If you want to ride softer by show season, start with your breath.
It’s the simplest, most effective way to release tension, improve balance, and support your body from the inside out. Because when you breathe better, you move better—and when you move better, your horse does too.
Want to learn more about how breathing can transform your riding? Let’s talk.
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