The Pelvic Floor: How Horse Riding Can Affect It

The pelvic floor plays an important role in posture, stability, and comfort while riding. Because horse riding involves repetitive movement, pressure, and muscle engagement, many riders begin to wonder how it affects this part of the body over time. Understanding how riding habits influence pelvic comfort helps riders make more informed, body-aware choices in the saddle.

What is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a set of muscles and ligaments that close the abdominal cavity in its lower part. Its function is to hold the pelvic organs (bladder and urethra, uterus and vagina; and rectum) in the proper position because their normal functioning depends on it.

A weakened pelvic floor can cause urinary incontinence, discomfort, prolapse (loss of intra-abdominal organs), back pain, and even sexual dysfunction. If you have any of these symptoms, consult your doctor to assess the state of your pelvic muscles.

Most riders are unaware that some high-impact exercises can damage these muscles. The impacts due to the movement of the trot and gallop of the horse can expose the pelvic floor to increased pressure.

When direct compression occurs in the lower pelvic area, it can alter the nerves in the area (pudendal) and blood vessels. For this reason, when not receiving the correct irrigation, discomfort occurs.

Therefore, to avoid these future problems, it is important to follow these tips:

Make sure you are riding with a correct seat

It is very important to avoid shifting the position so the pressure with the saddle is correctly placed and balanced. 

Start with a smooth routine

If you are just starting in the world of horse riding, start with simple rides and avoid long intense impacts. Also, if you have abdominal problems, it is better to start with easy hacks in nature and increase the intensity slowly.

If you have just given birth it is important to wait two months to ride again. The muscles until then will be weak, so this period should be used to rehabilitate them. On the other hand, if you have had surgery in the perineal area, it is advisable to avoid riding until the muscles have fully recovered.

Perform complementary exercises to horseback riding

A good option is to combine horse riding practice with Kegel exercises to avoid possible discomfort and keep the pelvic floor toned. This routine consists of contracting the pelvic floor muscles up and in for a few seconds to strengthen and tone the pelvic floor.

You can find these exercises detailed in our blog.

Use padded underwear

Padded underwear will reduce and dispel the pressure in the intimate area in contact with the saddle. It will also absorb accidental drops and keep the leakages at bay in case of urinary incontinence.

Take care of your pelvic floor and keep on riding!

 You might also find interesting...No Taboo: 7 common equestrian intimate health issues

 Disclaimer: Please note that the information in this document is of general nature. It is not intended to, and cannot substitute for a medical consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does horse riding affect the pelvic floor?

Horse riding involves continuous muscle engagement, balance, and pressure. For some riders, this can influence pelvic floor fatigue or awareness, especially during long or frequent rides.

Can horse riding weaken the pelvic floor?

Horse riding does not automatically weaken the pelvic floor. However, posture, riding intensity, and muscle fatigue can affect how the pelvic floor responds during and after riding.

Is pelvic floor discomfort common among riders?

Some riders report pelvic discomfort at different stages of their riding routine. Sensitivity varies between individuals and often depends on riding duration, equipment, and recovery.

Should riders stop riding if they experience pelvic discomfort?

Many riders do not need to stop riding altogether. Paying attention to posture, comfort, and recovery can help reduce discomfort. Persistent symptoms may benefit from professional guidance.

Can riding posture influence pelvic floor comfort?

Yes. Riding position and how pressure is distributed in the saddle can affect pelvic comfort. Small adjustments in posture and riding habits often make a noticeable difference.

Last updated: 2026