Synofit
Like mother, like daughter. Marlies (42) and Coby van Baalen (66) are both Olympic Dutch dressage riders. How do they make sure they stay fit?
How important is vitality in your life?
Coby: “Very much so. As a dressage rider with your own horse business as well, you have to have good stamina. We work here seven days a week, from early to late. You can only manage that if you are fit and physically strong. Also in terms of competitions. If you ride under pressure, it makes a big difference if you feel mentally and physically strong.”
Marlies: “I couldn’t agree more. Dressage is not a sport for which you necessarily have to follow a special diet. But you soon notice: the fitter, the better. A healthy lifestyle gives me more energy and better focus. If the basics are right, you can perform better.”
Staying fit and healthy, how do you guys do it?
Marlies: “Horseback riding is the basics. In this, you only use your muscles somewhat unilaterally. To keep my body more balanced, I have been doing strength training, running and yoga for years. I also eat healthy, with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. I top it off with supplements and vitamins. These give me just that little bit of extra support.”
Coby: “By walking and biking a lot, I maintain the basics. I also cook every day with healthy, good ingredients. I love vegetables! Going to bed on time is also essential. With enough rest, you feel like getting up, picking the day and going at it.”
What do you do differently now than you did before?
Coby: “Running a half marathon – which I used to do sometimes – is no longer possible. But now I jog about four times a week. It’s great to clear my head and be outside.”
Marlies: “Three years ago I broke my back while riding. Since then, it has been even more important for me to roll out my yoga mat daily.
Furthermore, I am increasingly aware of the importance of taking a holistic approach to your health. So in addition to exercising, I regularly go to the physio or book a massage.”
What else helps you stay flexible?
Coby: “I like using Synofit’s Green-lipped Mussel Plus for my joints, as well as their Skin Care product. This one contains no perfume and is greasy enough for my sensitive and somewhat brittle skin. Ideal.”
Marlies: “I also take good care of my joints, which is very important with aging. For that, I like to use Synofit’s Green-lipped Mussel Plus, as well as Joint Care. That lubricates easily and works well for muscle pain. Admittedly, I have more energy now than when I was 20, but it’s still important to take good care of yourself!”
Author: Lisette Jongerius
