2023 Jane Savoie Adult Amateur Fund Grant Recipient: Kristi Bloom

Well, the magic of summer is changing to the north winds of winter here in Minnesota.  With that comes the close of another riding season and winter training time will be here before we know it. 

I have had a terrific summer, plus a few lessons were learned along the way, I might add!  

In May and June, I attended back-to-back shows, and very quickly took note to NEVER do that again!  I was so tired and stiff that I could barely move let alone ride! I managed to eke out my scores at Prix St Georges but was disappointed that the rides did not go better.  When I talked to the weight trainer who is working with me through the Cancer Society’s Survival-2-Strength program, he reminded me that most riders were a lot younger and that I was stiff and weak, but he could help me with that. With committed weight training over the summer, I have renewed confidence with my improved overall strength and flexibility.  Riding (for me at my age at least) needs to be paired with personal strength training if I have any hopes of progressing.  And I do want to progress!  Next goal: compete on my horse Intermediate and on to Grand Prix.  I will keep up with the weights. 

Riding is a lifelong pursuit that has one constant:  Patience!

As a younger rider, I thought about being fit and flexible.  As a senior rider (68 years old), it is about strength.  Don’t get me wrong—overall fitness and flexibility still matter, but the lack of strength creeps in silently and catches you off guard.  So, for seniors, the biggest tip is to focus on strength and strength training.

While riding, I had a major challenge “carrying my hands.”  My trainer is constantly telling me to shorten my reins, lift my hands, and put them out in front of me.  Especially the left hand which tends to drop and hover just over my saddle.  I think about it all the time, yet every time I glance at my left hand it falls into that old, undesirable position.  Very frustrating.  I believe that I am capable of "carrying my hands,” but why can’t I do it?

I brought the matter up to my fitness trainer who helped me realize that I have a tremendous weakness on my left side and would benefit from some weight training work.  Six weeks later I can already see improvement—both with my ability to lift the small hand-held weights but also with my ability to keep the reins up and out in front of me. Thank heavens!!  

Another tip would be to consider a new approach if the status quo is not working.  For example, one could apply for a presidential modification.  With the advice of an informed TD, I applied to the USEF for a Presidential Modification to have a coat waiver.  What a relief!  I was granted the waiver.  The anxiety surrounding wearing a coat and just how hot I would be was eliminated in one fell swoop!  I greatly appreciate the USDF for recognizing that the needs of riders vary and for paying attention.  

Of course, not everyone will have the same problems as they age, but finding kind solutions to addressing the challenges requires thinking outside the box and support.  Trying something new even if sticking with it is not easy.  Still, the extra effort may surprise you!  In my case, the benefits have been tangible.  I just need to stick with it. 

So, I am eager to see what the winter training will bring.  Between feeling physically stronger and being excited about progressing with my horse, my love of dressage continues to bring me great joy.  I will also continue the lessons with Heather Salden Kurtz and the clinics when I can with Emily Miles.  Such great opportunities--I am not sure that it could get any better!!