The feasibility of an 8-week, home-based isometric strength-training program for improving dressage test performance in equestrian athletes

The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of an 8-week, home-based isometric strength training program in equestrians. Also, we examined changes in muscular strength, endurance, and riding performance. 18 riders (≥1 year dressage experience, riding ≥1 h/week, otherwise untrained) completed pre-/post-muscular tests and a US Equestrian Federation Training Level Rider Test. A progressive, 3 day/week riding-specific intervention using TheraBands® was implemented. Feasibility was determined as >50% of riders completing ≥18/24 sessions of ≥2 sets/exercise of prescribed volume. Dependent samples t-tests compared pre/post composite muscular strength/endurance, and riding test scores. 55.5% of riders completed ≥75% exercise sessions. Significant improvements were observed for muscular endurance (pre 149.8±82.2, post 209.2±112.2; P=0.003), and for riding test scores (pre 57.8±7.4, post 60.8±5.1; P=0.037). Exploratory analyses revealed a significant correlation between improvements in muscular endurance and riding test score (r2=0.285, P=0.020). The intervention was feasible and produced improvements in muscular strength, endurance, and potentially in riding test performance.