SHOULD YOU RIDE WHILE PREGNANT?ANT?

If you’re expecting, it can be hard to decide whether or not to ride. NHS advice does not list horse riding in the exercises to avoid category, but rather states that: ‘exercises that have a risk of falling, such as horse riding, downhill skiing, ice hockey, gymnastics and cycling, should only be done with caution.’ Nevertheless, there can be a perception that women are taking an unnecessary risk. But for many riders, quitting for nine months is not an option. Dressage rider Laura Tomlinson is currently expecting her second child and explains that she has to keep riding when pregnant: “you do when it’s your job.” She avoids youngsters and riskier activities, like hunting. Following the birth, Laura’s advice for getting back in the saddle is pragmatic. “Don’t rush it – especially if you’ve had a difficult birth or your baby is a non-sleeper. There can be too much pressure to carry on like before. Take your time and you’ll enjoy it more.”