Alignment is arguably the MOST IMPORTANT part of your position. Whenever I see a new student, I always start with getting them in the correct alignment from their ear-shoulder-hip-to heel!
Why?
Finding and maintaining the correct alignment gives you stability in the saddle and helps you to stay on when your horse does something unexpected!
The correct alignment also puts your body and spine in the correct position where you can absorb the motion of the horse!
Your center of gravity is actually higher when you are riding than it is when you are standing which is why you often feel top heavy and unbalanced in the saddle. Finding the correct alignment and keeping your hands down helps to lower your center of gravity – and this is so important for your stability in the saddle.
What are the biggest alignment issues?
Riders tend to either lean forward and their lower leg goes back, or they end up in a chair seat with their shoulders too far back and their heels out in front.
Which are you? Do you tend to tip forward or do you end up in a chair seat?
When you are not in the correct alignment, you are not able to absorb the motion of the horses’ back. Your hips lock up the instant that you are not in the correct alignment!
For the sitting trot and also the canter, the alignment is particularly important. If you feel that you are bouncing or unable to follow the motion of the horse it could be that you are not in the correct alignment!
Another important factor in alignment is saddle fit. The design of your saddle and knee rolls should help you to maintain the correct leg position. Some saddles can end up putting riders in a chair seat or tipping them forward!
So pay attention to your alignment and let me know how it goes for you!
