Correct Body Position to TURN your horse!

Correct Body Position to Turn Your Horse

Turning your horse accurately requires a balanced and independent seat combined with correct alignment. Many riders struggle with maintaining the correct position during turns, leading to confusion for their horses. Here’s how to ensure your body position is spot on for turning.

Shoulders Guide the Turn

Your shoulders play an important role in directing your horse. They should mirror your horse’s shoulders and align with the circle or path you’re riding. For example, if you’re on a 20-meter circle to the left:

1. Your left shoulder should be slightly back.
2. Your right shoulder should come slightly forward.

Avoid over-rotating your shoulders or pointing them in the opposite direction, as this can interrupt your horse’s balance and rhythm.

Hips Stay Straight

While your shoulders guide the turn, your hips must remain aligned with your horse’s spine and follow the forward motion. Over twisting your hips can block your horse’s energy, causing them to lose momentum or stop entirely. Maintaining this separation between shoulder movement and hip alignment is essential, especially in the trot and canter.

Practice Makes Perfect

You don’t need to be on a horse to practice independent shoulder and hip movement. While sitting, try this:

1. Sit squarely on your seat bones.
2. Rotate your shoulders without twisting your hips or collapsing through your core.This exercise strengthens your ability to guide your horse with minimal disruption to their balance and flow.

In the Saddle

When riding:

1. Align your shoulders with the circle or turn, keeping them parallel to your horse’s shoulders.
2. Keep your hips straight, ensuring they follow your horse’s forward motion.
3. Use minimal inside rein and rely on your outside aids for proper support and balance.

By maintaining this balanced, independent position, you create a clear and effective connection with your horse, making turns smoother and more precise.

Practice these tips to master your body alignment and enjoy effortless turns with your horse.

Happy riding!

Amelia