L-R Ankle behind hips (tipping forward), Vertical line up, Chair seat (weight falling back), Ankle
in front of hip (weight falling back)
Most of us will hope not to have the horse disappear out from underneath us – but this falling back or pitching forward tendency has consequences for your horse. Your weight will be
pitched to the back of the saddle or the front of the saddle (not particularly comfortable for
the horse). When the horse is in motion you are likely to affect its balance and/or forwardness, you may have difficulty having a truly independent seat, clarity of aids and forward hand
and you may affect the horse’s ability to carry its back up and support you as a rider.
The ability to keep your foot underneath you in the saddle can be affected by your conformation, the flexibility of your hip flexors and rotators, the recruitment of your glutes, and
flexibility in your back, hips, knees and ankles. Saddle design and fit can also have a bearing.
Being told to push your heels down will most likely send your lower leg forward as will taking
your knee completely off the saddle.