Out Of Shape Equestrian: The First 2 Weeks

Come along for the ride with Amanda Ronan as she exercises for the first time…ever.

Two weeks ago I decided to cross train for the first time in my life. I mean, sure, I played tennis in junior high, but seeing as how I’m about to turn 32… I doubt that still counts. I do ride as much as possible and keep my three horses at home, so I clean stalls, lift hay bales, so on and so forth.

But I’ve never “worked out.” Gyms scare me.  I imagine them filled with judgmental body builders that will scoff at me when I use the 5 lb. weights.

This year I really want to improve my riding, though, which means getting in shape. To guide me through the process I hired a certified personal trainer. He also happens to be my daughter’s Tae Kwon Do instructor. He looks all innocent and charming when he’s holding my daughter. Trust me… he transforms into a cruel master of fitness when it’s just me and him.

So far our basic routine consists of 18 minutes of cardio and another 20 minutes of weight training. Check out my first video entry for all the details:

Let’s recap.

And, oh yeah, people at the gym are actually super nice and friendly. That’s it for this week, Horse Nation!

If any of you out there want to come along for the ride, I would love to see your exercise video diaries, tips, and confessionals in the comments section!

Go Riding!