Rider Position – Hamstring Stretch

In this video, I share a simple hamstring stretch you can do right at the mounting block to help even out your seat bones in the saddle. If you ever feel like one seat bone is heavier or more tucked under than the other, this stretch is a great place to start.

Overactive hamstrings, especially on one side, can tilt the pelvis and create asymmetry in your seat. The goal here is not to force flexibility, but to gently deactivate the tight side so your body can use the correct muscles for balance and stability.

How to Do the Hamstring Stretch

Set your mounting block next to you and use the second step, not the top.

Place one foot up on the block and stand up tall. Do not fold forward. Simply standing upright will already create a stretch for most riders.

If you need a little more stretch, place your hands on your thigh and hinge slightly at the hips while keeping a neutral spine. Only go to the point where you feel light resistance, never pain. Then stay there and breathe.

If this feels too strong, move your foot down to the bottom step instead.

Finding Your Tighter Side

Try the stretch on your right side first and notice how it feels. Then switch to the left side and compare. Whichever side feels tighter or more resistant is the side you should spend a little extra time stretching.

Many riders find their right hamstring is more overactive, which can pull that side of the pelvis slightly under and make the seat bone feel tucked. This stretch helps correct that pattern.

What to Do After You Stretch

Right after this stretch, it is important to activate your glute med muscle. In this video, I demonstrate this by standing on the rail and lifting the leg back. This helps lock the pelvis into a more stable position and supports better symmetry for your ride.

This simple sequence of stretch first, then activate, can make a noticeable difference in how evenly you sit and how balanced your horse feels underneath you.

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

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I'm Amelia

I help foster a trusting, confident bond between horse and rider. By combining natural horsemanship with classical dressage, I create a holistic training approach tailored to the unique needs of each horse and rider.
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