I had no idea that I had poor posture until I started showing horses at age 16… After seeing all of the photographs that my trainer had taken of all the exhibitors, including me, at one of our shows, it was clear that my equitation position needed improvement.
The ShouldersBack by EquiFit was new to me, and frankly, I was very skeptical that a product made of lightweight mesh fabric and velcro could help my situation. I remember the first time I tried the ShouldersBack on at the barn during a lesson, and to my surprise, there was a significant difference! Besides the first-hand visual effect it had, this also helped my overall center of balance. I noticed myself leaning less into corners; sitting more squarely in the saddle which allowed my horse to stay more comfortable.
The ShouldersBack was developed by orthopedic specialists and is designed to gently pull your shoulders back into correct alignment. The comfortable, vest-like back brace adjusts to reduce the likelihood of your back rounding, while still giving you a full range of motion while riding, sitting, or standing. Make sure that you purchase the correct size for your body for optimal results; it is available in three sizes: Small (up to 24″ chest), Medium (up to 38″ chest), and Large (up to 50″ chest). The care is easy and straightforward, simply hand wash and then line dry.
With consistent use during training rides, I continued to make noticeable improvements. Occasionally, I even would try a lesson without wearing my ShouldersBack and was pleased to find that correct posture came more naturally. The ShouldersBack has been subtly training my muscles to remain in a more upright position, no longer rounding my shoulders or rolling my back. Whenever I wear it, I typically wear a tank top under it (to prevent chafing), and my normal shirt on top. It is virtually impossible to tell if someone is wearing it. When competing, I wear it over my show shirt and under my hunt jacket.
This product is not specific to equestrians. It can be used during everyday activities, such as sitting at the computer desk at work or going to shop for groceries. While it was designed for equestrians, EquiFit reports that it is also popular among professional athletes, dancers, chiropractors, dental hygienists, actors, and models. I truly think that anyone could benefit from wearing it and improving their posture, it can also be worn as a preventative to safeguard against perpetual shoulder rounding. The ShouldersBack is very lightweight, breathable, and practically weightless. I find it to be exceptionally easy to put on and take off.
I have owned my ShouldersBack for nearly five years now. I have continued to use my ShouldersBack when riding daily so that I can be ready to compete as soon as we can get back into the show ring. Hopefully, 2021 will be a great show season. Although these photos are several years old, it is clear the difference the ShouldersBack can make in your posture and equitation simply by strapping it on!
This product is very high on my recommendation list for anyone dealing with poor posture or rounded shoulders. A solution is here, and, with persistent use, the Equifit ShouldersBack can help alleviate a common problem in (and out) of the saddle! And, did I mention, it is even made in the USA!
Alicia is the Assistant Sales Manager at The Cheshire Horse. She’s a very friendly, hard worker and also knowledgeable in boot fittings. She enjoys showing with her horse Zippy in Western halter and English pleasure. When she’s not working or riding, she enjoys being outdoors on her 4-wheeler.