Physical Fitness Equestrian Style

THE MECHANICAL CORE MUSCLE TRAINER

"This is the low-impact mechanical exerciser that gently and thoroughly concentrates on developing strength in the glutes, upper thigh, abdominal, and lower back muscles, and is especially beneficial for novice exercisers or those unable to tolerate excessive pressure and stress on joints. It allows you to conduct a 20-minute exercise routine while seated, making it easy to perform at home while working on other tasks or watching television. The saddle supports up to 265 lbs., gently tilting back and forth, left and right in preprogrammed sequences that can be selected at the touch of a button. The gentle swaying of the saddle forces the core body muscles to expand and contract, keeping you upright in a relaxed, properly aligned sitting position which helps develop important muscle structure necessary to maintain good posture. The exercise routines also provide a beneficial aerobic workout ideal for those who need to maintain low target heart rates. Any of three basic programs and nine speeds are easily controlled from the panel at the pommel, and a set of stirrups and a handle help beginners maintain proper balance during the slow workout that simulates the gentle back-and-forth motion experienced while riding a horse at a lazy gait. Plugs into AC. 29" H x 16 1/2" W x 34 1/3" D. (82 lbs.)
Item 10958 ($75) ................. $1,499.95"

I came across this item in a Hammacher Schlemmer catalogue (why I was sent the catalogue, I don't know) and got a laugh out of it. I cut it out and posted it on the bulletin board at the barn. I had to share it here, also.

All of us who ride horses realize that the activity is excellent exercise as well as good for the soul. We all growl at and quickly correct the pedestrians who claim "the horse does all the work." Afterall, every horse I've known would prefer to spend his/her days grazing. Anything a horse does that isn't grazing is due to the efforts of the rider!

The machine claims to provide an aerobic workout to help maintain "low target heart rates." However, any equestrian knows that horses can greatly increase heart rates in an instant and provide an adrenaline rush that any Xtreme sports enthusiast would envy.

I suppose the advantage of this machine is that it requires no hay, grain, shavings, veterinary care, farrier visits, tack, turnout/stable blankets/sheets, etc. However, I doubt that the above machine will nicker warmly at your arrival, mug you with a velvety muzzle for treats, fly over fences without wings, share a wildlife sighting on the trail, etc.

I think I'm happy with my selection of Equus caballus, thank you.