Chukka Wellness: Preparation is key

India Parker-Smith is the founder and owner of Chukka Wellness which provides the leading training and movement methodology designed for the equestrian athlete to enhance suppleness, stability and strength in the saddle.India is a Personal Trainer who offers online and offline fitness training designed to elevate the well-being of the equestrian athlete. Using her knowledge of seven years she has created a series of masterclasses, a virtual membership hub and online training programmes all designed to complement the equestrian’s health and wellness both in and out of the saddle. You will find more information on India’s services on her website www.chukkawellness.co.uk and Instagram page @chukka_wellness

Preparation is Key

Stay prepared to stay ahead of the game

As we have mentioned in our last couple of articles; preparation is key in any aspect of life. The more prepared you are physically and mentally for a task; the more likely you are to succeed! Game days are usually very hectic and busy times – so by prepping as much as you can in the days, weeks and months leading up to important games reduces stress creating a better athletic performance. Here are a few steps to help prepare you for those busy polo days…

1. Prepare any snacks and meals that you will need to take with you on game days.

Ensure these snacks are nutrient dense and full of protein to aid in muscle repair post riding. Snack Suggestions - Protein Bar - Protein Shake (our favourite brands are

Essential Gains (10% off with code: chukkawellness10 and Missfits) - Banana - Handful of nuts and seeds - Lots and lots of water!

Nuts, seeds & protein shakes are great snacks for busy polo days

2. Is your body supple, stable and strong?

Rider physical preparation should begin months before the season starts. Preseason training is essential to bulletproofing the body for polo. Top polo Pro

Hazel Jackson stated, “It is crucial to incorporate pre-season training into your training to improve your game.” Hazel adapts her training regime depending on the time of year; pre-season she focuses more on reaction time and training under fatigue. During the season her training turns to body maintenance and lots of recovery. Post-season she takes time to focus on repairing her muscles and joints.

If you are not sure where to start with your own pre-season fitness journey – why not begin by adding in some mobility routines to your workout regime and game day warm-ups.

For further guidance download our FREE ‘Become a More Supple Rider’ e-book (link in Instagram bio) full of mobility routines. Each exercise has been designed to warm-up the necessary polo muscles and keep you playing for longer!

Mobility routines are a great place to start for pre-season fitness Take 10 minutes out of your pre-game routine to: 1. Breathe (in for four, hold for four, out for four) 2. Focus on your game strategy 3. Positive Thinking – a bit of self-talk never hurt anybody… ‘I am a great player’, ‘I can do this’, ‘I am physically prepared’,

‘I have good ponies’, ‘I have great team mates’.

Then take 10 minutes out of your post game routine to reflect on your performance, your string’s performance, your shooting technique, your shot accuracy. From this what do you need to work on in order to prepare for the next game?

For more mental game preparation, we recommend contacting Nick Dann; a mental skills coach based down in Midhurst.

Chukka Wellness has just launched their 8 Week Pre Season Training Programme. Their tried and tested formula aims to help riders become twice as supple, stable and strong in preparation for their next season. Benefits include: enhancing the control and power of the swings, improve overall balance and control in the saddle, recover quicker after games, improve flexibility and reduce risk of injury.

You will gain access to daily 25 minute follow-along workouts, daily mobility routines and meal plans, PLUS discounts on associated equestrian brands!

Start your seven day free trial now and head over to www.chukkawellness.co.uk

3. Mental Focus and Reflection

Polo is a mental sport and very rarely do we see players take time out of their busy schedule to mentally prepare for action or even reflect on their performance post game.