A new fitness App, designed specifically for the horse rider, has just been launched that offers a huge library of equestrian-specific workouts. The App contains nutritional advise, educational webinars, follow along training programmes designed for riders in their pre-season, off-season or competitive season stage, plus a community where riders can connect and share their wellness journey. All the programmes on the App have been devised by India Parker-Smith, a fitness expert within the equine world. The App guides the user to create a programme of activity that suits their needs and allows them to exercise where and when they want.
The App is designed to help the users increase flexibility and strength, increase stamina, develop stability, reduce the risk of injury and improve recovery after exercise or a competition.
The App, called Chukka Wellness, which is available within an App Store or via the website www.chukkawellness.co.uk/
India says: “As the fitness industry has matured and knowledge increased there are now exercise programmes that can assist athletes requiring particular needs. As these programmes now exist it would seem logical to source them.
“It’s like having a coach in your pocket, with access available via phone or laptop; something that is invaluable to the travelling equestrian.”
The fitness App is based on India’s years of experience – after starting her personal fitness training business over ten years ago India began to concentrate on supporting riders in the Polo world.
It was whilst working with leading polo players that she found that they had very different fitness and well-being needs from other athletes. For instance, most horse riders need a strong core, incredible balance, a secure seat and flexible hips. India has, more latterly, expanded her personal training and wellbeing advice to eventers, show jumpers and those who do dressage.
“After using the App for some core and stretching routines, I have found it easy to use and perfect for when I’m travelling.” says Nina Clarkin (Number one female polo player).
“I am so grateful for the guidance India has given me. She helped me to identify imbalances in my seat and now I have the App to help me with these weak areas.” Ellesse Gundersen (GP Dressage Rider)
India believes that the top echelons of equestrian sport have become increasingly more professionalised and competitive, meaning marginal gains, from whatever source, are a necessity; split second jump offs or a point dropped in dressage can mean the difference between winning and missing out on a spot on the podium. So slight are the margins in many cases that riders have begun to look at proven ways of gaining that extra 1%, be this through a better diet for both horse and rider, use of sport psychologists and, increasingly, through the use of personal wellness trainers.
The ‘Chukka Wellness’ App available in the Apple Store now
EMAIL : india@chukkawellness.co.uk
Facebook Page – Chukka Wellness
Instagram – Chukka Wellness