Re: Re: Training ride today

[Sue Brown <sbrown@wamedes.com>]

At 07:32 AM 9/12/00 +0200, Tracey wrote:
>Hi, all.  I just wanted to add that in my admittedly limited experience, I
>have found that horses who do this (star-gaze) as youngsters often benefit
>from the rider staying OFF the back for as long as possible.  It is then
>easier for the horse to round his back, and you can gradually start lowering
>yourself into the saddle.  And I second, third, fourth and fifth the "no
>gadget" rule.  That's just lazy, lazy, lazy.
>
>Tracey
>
I will add here to *post* your trot (or 2-point) as much as possible
(except gaited horses, or course ;-)) on a green/young horse, at least
nearly all of the time...and always post the trot on ANY horse (except
gaited) when you first start a riding session until they have had a chance
to warm up and lift (start using) those back muscles.  You should feel them
lifting the back up and rounding before you do any seated trot.  When you
*do* sit, keep your seat light...and if you start to bounce, go back to
posting.  Continue to sit "light" during the walk and canter -- do this by
pushing your weight into your heels and spreading more of it along your
thighs and not your seat bones.

Sue  

sbrown@wamedes.com
Tyee Farm
Marysville, Wa.
ARICP Certified Riding Instructor
Recreational Riding II, Dressage I