Re: [RC] Now, saddle fit for rider's bottom? - Susan_Bothern
Good thoughts, Melody.
Sitting in a balanced position with proper body alignment should be, if
anything, easier without stirrups (assuming horse isn't going full
out!). Stirrup length and positioning can sometimes throw you off.
Can you tell me if you are sitting almost on top of the pommel (front) of the
saddle or more back towards the cantle. Has your weight or level of
physical fitness changed? Same question concerning your
horse?
Sometimes a change of pads
makes a hugh difference. If you are hitting the pommel then you are riding
downhill, so less padding especially around the cantle will help. And vice
versa if you are sliding into the cantle. A traditional lift pad may
help.
There used to be a guideline that
you wanted an entire hand in front of you and behind you in an english
saddle. Hogwash! You don't need that much space and will often feel
like you are floundering around.
Now what are you doing to the
horse's back -- oooh, depends upon your horse, how you ride, are you heavy in
the saddle (not your actual weight but do you flow with the horse's
movement). If you have been riding for awhile you might be subconcscious
(ok, I can't spell that word!) compensating without realizing it.
