In the competitive world of equestrian sports, fitness and wellness are just as important as skill in the saddle. Clare Gangadeen, a rider fitness and wellness coach, has made it her mission to help riders not only improve their physical abilities but also build confidence and resilience both on and off the horse. In a recent conversation, Clare shared her journey, the philosophy behind her unique coaching approach, and how she's helping riders achieve their dreams.
From Corporate Life to Equestrian Fitness
Clare Gangadeen’s journey into the world of rider fitness began after a personal transformation that sparked her passion for health and wellness. Originally from a corporate background, Clare fell in love with fitness following her weight loss journey. This newfound passion led her to create Rider Size, a program dedicated to helping riders enhance their performance through tailored fitness routines.
However, Clare’s approach goes beyond just physical fitness. She’s evolved from being a traditional fitness coach to becoming a wellness mentor, focusing on a holistic approach that includes not just physical training but also mental and emotional support. “Fitness is not equal,” Clare explained, emphasizing the importance of targeted fitness that caters specifically to the needs of riders.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach
Clare’s coaching philosophy is centred on understanding the individual needs of each rider. She recognizes that what riders often truly seek is not just better fitness, but improved confidence and resilience, which often stem from past experiences like falls or negative feedback. Her approach is comprehensive, involving not just fitness training but also mindset coaching, life experience, and even rehabilitation for those recovering from injuries.
“It’s about giving riders the tools they need to walk their path alone,” Clare said, underscoring her commitment to empowering her clients to become self-sufficient. By taking a 360-degree approach to rider fitness, Clare ensures that her clients achieve not just physical strength, but also mental and emotional stability, allowing them to perform at their best.
Celebrating Successes: The Power of Persistence
One of Clare’s proudest moments in her coaching career involved helping a client who was on the verge of giving up her dream of riding. After a serious fall down the stairs, unrelated to riding, this client lost all confidence and even stopped visiting her horse. Clare worked with her through small, achievable steps, eventually restoring her confidence. Today, this client is not just riding again but is actively participating in clinics and horse camps, living the dream she once feared she had lost.
This story highlights the deep impact that Clare’s holistic approach can have, especially when combined with her dedication to understanding each rider’s unique challenges. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about enabling riders to reclaim their passion and joy for the sport.
Reducing Injuries Through Fitness
Clare also emphasizes the critical role of fitness in injury prevention. Equestrian sports can be physically demanding and risky, and Clare’s programs are designed to prepare riders’ bodies to withstand the physical demands of the sport. By focusing on full-range movements and conditioning the body, Clare helps reduce the severity of injuries when falls do occur.
“I’ve always got up [after a fall],” Clare shared, attributing her resilience to her fitness regimen. Her programs are designed to ensure that riders can enjoy their sport while minimizing the risk of serious injury, making fitness not just a tool for performance but a crucial element of safety.
The Strong Confident Rider Program: A Comprehensive Solution
Clare’s flagship offering, the Strong Confident Rider Program, is a comprehensive six-month course that addresses all aspects of rider fitness and wellness. It includes personalized fitness plans, mindset coaching, and nutrition advice, all tailored to the individual needs of each rider. With regular check-ins and support from Clare and her team of coaches, participants are guided through a transformative journey that builds not only their physical strength but also their confidence and resilience.
After completing the program, riders are invited to join a membership community where they continue to receive support and celebrate their successes. This community aspect is a crucial part of Clare’s approach, fostering a sense of belonging and ongoing motivation among her clients.
Looking to the Future: Expanding Impact Through Education
As Clare looks to the future, she hopes to expand her impact by training other coaches to adopt her holistic approach to rider fitness. Despite challenges in the industry, she remains committed to filling the gaps in rider fitness education and helping more riders achieve their goals by mentoring new coaches who share her passion for comprehensive, rider-centric training.
Conclusion
Clare Gangadeen’s work is a testament to the power of a holistic approach to equestrian fitness. By addressing not just the physical but also the mental and emotional aspects of riding, Clare is helping riders transform their performance and achieve their dreams. Her dedication to her clients’ success, coupled with her innovative programs, makes her a standout figure in the world of rider fitness.
If you found this conversation insightful and want to learn more about how to enhance your riding performance, be sure to listen to our podcast! Dive deeper into Clare’s approach and discover more tips and stories that can help you become a stronger, more confident rider. Tune in today!