REF TRPOSB

When on a horse, the rider is held by the saddle. He can lean forward or backward or even seat crooked without falling. It explains why numerous riders won’t pay much attention to the quality of their position. We don’t find that issue in most of the other sport involving balance. Unfortunately, the longer we let the bad habit take place, the harder it will be to change it.

To confront the facts, the rider can rely on a video or a shrewd eye like an instructor or an informed person. The rider will then become aware of his problems and will be able to analyse when and why his position deteriorates. For instance, if the legs get too far forward, the rider should be able to realise it and understand why: is it when the horse speeds up? …or is it close to the jump? …Is it linked to anxiety? …or maybe to a saddle that doesn’t fit the rider?...

In case the bad habits are well anchored, it is important to allow a period of time to make the modifications. “Rome was not built in a day”. For that matter, even though the rider will make great progress, the rider should stay alert at all time as it is extremely easy to fall back into such bad habit. As Michel always says: “I’ve been improving my position between age 50 and now”. Achieving a good position is a daily training and requires a strong will….Bad habits die hard. That said, everyone can progress, whatever the level or the age.

Michel shows us the exercise, riding an 11 year old grey mare. After explaining the advantage of his method, Michel goes over an “easy to do” set-up of ground poles and cones.  To begin with, you can replace the ground poles with some cones to go through or around. The exercise is to be done at the lower gaits first and then if successful on it, at a canter. Once you have well mastered the exercise, don’t hesitate to modify the track. You can also practise it on a small course of cavalettis keeping in mind that the upper body relaxation is key.