A stiff neck not only is a literal pain the neck but it will affect your riding too.

Do you have a stiff neck? Do you suffer from tension headaches? Forwards head posture or a hump on the back of your neck?

A stiff neck limits your ability to turn your head smoothly, which can affect how quickly you respond to situations. A stiff neck can throw off your balance, making it harder to stay centered in the saddle, especially during transitions or sudden movements. Neck stiffness often leads to compensatory tension in the shoulders, back, and arms. This can interfere with your rein contact and your ability to give clear aids to the horse. Pain can reduce your focus and enjoyment, making you more prone to mistakes or accidents.

I have selected my favourite exercises to help relieve a stiff, restricted neck and put them into a couple of short 10-15 minute sessions. Some of the exercises are repeated in both sessions, some are different. Try them for a week and see how you feel. You’ll find them in the ‘Mindfulness and Relaxation’ section.