When the rider’s femurs are rolled in, the
human pelvis moves correctly for stability
and balance, as well as receiving the
motion of the horse’s back in the most effi cient way. Note: The head of the femur in
the hip joint moves most efficiently with the
femur turned inward.
The daily monitoring of how you move
while off your horse will help you ride better.
There are many disciplines (yoga, Pilates, tai
chi, dance, etc.) that can help you build fluid,
balanced strength off your horse. The rest is
making a commitment to the mental and
physical regimen of walking and standing in
good balance throughout your entire torso
and neck every day.
Experiment, while walking, with pulling your
pelvis through and under your shoulders by
engaging just your lower abdominals (use the
candle concept mentioned above). Eventually
a firm "muscle sandwich" for the spine is built
and you will acquire efficient torso strength.
Your horse will love you for it and so will your
joints as you age.
Holly Mason lives in Rhode Island and teaches in
the United States and Canada. Her emphasis is on
the biomechanics of horse and rider and has had
articles published on the subject internationally.
Her video "Focus on Flexibility" is available on
her web site dressagebydesign.com.
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Jennifer Cavallaro, a licensed massage therapist
(jennifercavallaro.com) is originally from England.
Now based in Rhode Island, she presents anatomy
and movement clinics for riders of all disciplines.
The effects of incorrect rider torso and
pelvis without proper abdominal control