Accomplished horsewoman and fitness expert Emily Harrington offers advice on dealing with an injury and getting back in the saddle.

Have an equestrian fitness question? Comment below, and we'll work hard to find you an answer!

By: Emily J. Harrington

Question:

I recently had foot surgery, which involved inserting a rod and screws. I really need to work out, but I’m not sure where to start.

Answer:

The very first thing I would ask is if you were given any guidelines from your doctor. Because I am not aware of the scope of your injury or reason for surgery, I cannot answer your question directly.

However, there are many exercises that can be done without engaging the lower body:

Learn more about Emily Harrington

• Upper body workouts with or without weights
• Swimming with a lower body buoy
• Arm cycling
• Seated on ball core work and/or stretches
• Floor exercises focused on the core

The most important thing is that you heal and get back to doing the things you love to do.

– Emily J. Harrington, CPT, equestrienne fitness trainer, is a multiple AQHA world champion and top-10 World Show finisher.

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