EngagedRider Resistance Bands | Equisk

Resistance bands are being increasingly used by riding coaches, especially biomechanics coaches or those with physiotherapy backgrounds, as we understand how important they are in helping riders engage the correct muscle chains.

You will immediately feel an increased awareness of your asymmetries and weaker muscle groups while wearing the bands. After even 10 - 15 minutes of riding in the bands, most riders report feeling increased muscle fatigue as a result of consistently engaging the correct muscles. You can start wearing them for longer periods as you become stronger.

Long-term, they will help you to be a straighter, more stable rider. Your position will improve and become more effective. Advanced riders may use them especially to correct crookedness in lateral movements, flying changes and even piaffe/passage.

Riders of all levels will find them helpful in noticing and addressing differences between riding on the right rein and the left rein at all paces.

What level of rider can use EngagedRider resistance bands? 

We recommend the EngagedRider resistance bands for intermediate and advanced riders. We do not recommend them for beginners as a basic degree of stability and coordination is required to confidently use the bands. The resistance bands are a tool to improve and refine rider position and symmetry. 

What happens if my horse plays up while I'm wearing the bands?

The bands can easily be released by lifting up the knee with the toe pointing down. Due to the nature of the fabric, the band will not snap back on the horse's side. However, the bands are a training tool to be used in a controlled environment. We do not recommend using the bands on an unreliable or spooky horse.

Are fabric resistance bands or latex resistance bands better?

We believe that fabric resistance bands are better, as they are more comfortable and more durable. They can also be easily washed. Also, they will not snap onto the horse's side if released in an emergency.