Mane Brain: The Science of Smarter Riding
Welcome to Mane Brain, the podcast where neuroscience meets the saddle! Hosted by Audrey Paslow, a board-certified neurologic physical therapist and expert in rider biomechanics, this show dives deep into the brain-body connection that makes great riders.
Each episode explores the science behind balance, coordination, flexibility, strength, breathing, and timing—essential elements for equestrians looking to improve their performance. Through expert interviews, rider fitness strategies, and neuroscience-backed insights, you’ll learn how to train smarter, ride better, and unlock your full potential in the saddle.
Mane Brain: The Science of Smarter Riding
Latest Episodes
The Three Riding Illusions: Strength, Effort, and Stillness
Many riders work incredibly hard to improve their riding—but sometimes the beliefs guiding that effort are the very things holding them back. In this episode, we explore three common illusions that can quietly limit progress in the saddle.<...
Why Getting Fit Isn’t Enough: The Missing Layer in Rider Training
You can be strong, flexible, and in great shape—and still struggle in the saddle. That’s because riding performance isn’t just about fitness; it’s about how the nervous system organizes movement.Episode Description...
Train Like an Elite Rider: The Muscles That Matter Most
What muscles do riders actually need to train—and how do elite riders use them differently? Research shows the difference between amateur and elite riders isn’t necessarily in strength, but in how and when those muscles are coordinated to work ...
Strength Training for Riders: Building Power for Brain and Body
Many riders believe that getting stronger will automatically make them more stable in the saddle. Strength absolutely matters—but strength alone doesn’t create harmonious rides with your horse.Strength training is one of the most valuabl...
Fatigue Changes Everything: Why Rider Fitness Protects Balance and Skill
🎯 A key thought as we wrap up our discussion on cardiovascular fitness:Cardiovascular fitness doesn’t make you a better rider by itself, but it does help protect and strengthen the skills you’re working so hard to build.If we are ...