The foundation of all correct riding is a balanced position on the horse.
To be effective, riders of all disciplines need to achieve a balanced, secure, and independent seat (position) on the horse. A correct seat will bring confidence in the saddle. Without correct, quiet, and supple equitation, no rider can communicate clearly or EFFECTIVELY with their horse. Our horses will only be able to perform as well as we enable them too. It is our responsibility as riders to make our horse's jobs as effortless and enjoyable as possible. We do this by learning to stay consistently over his center of gravity, becoming "plugged-into" the horses movement (not above, behind, or in front of it), while supporting ourselves with good posture and tone, and taking more of our weight off his back when he needs us to.
To do these things takes a great deal of strength in the rider’s core and legs, but it is a different kind of strength than what most rider's instinctively use or are taught to use. Also, there are profound differences in the way that men and women naturally use their bodies while riding. This is why one set of instructions may be very correct for a novice male rider and not at all helpful for a novice female rider. Seat work is an integral part of all lessons at Cessna Stables. Beginners can expect to spend a lot of time on a lunge line where they will have the opportunity to focus solely on their balance and position. Intermediate and advanced riders will benefit from work on the lunge to improve and fine tune the effectiveness of seat. It is an invaluable tool for creating a great rider! The principles taught in these lessons are applicable to all riding disciplines. Balance on a horse is based on physics and both the horse's and the rider's bio-mechanics. It is not subject to change as a result of a particular fad or show-ring style. The horse's balance (center of gravity) changes based on his level of training, the way he is carrying himself, and the particular movement he is performing at any given time. The rider's balance (center of gravity) must be able to change to support that movement. For instance, when a horse is galloping, his frame is extended and his center of gravity is more forward. Therefore, if the rider is to stay with his horse and be a help to him, he must be able to balance himself in a forward position. Not in front of or behind the horse's particular center of gravity at that particular moment. When you know how to balance yourself over the moving animal, adapting to his dynamic balance, you will understand how to make the changes necessary to support your horse through all kinds of movements, not based on discipline or style but on what is functional. To schedule a discounted trial lesson, please call 330-461-2318 or write [email protected]! |
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