Here are some pics which Mike took of me after I had got him a bit more settled. There are some of us working on the flat and some doing some trotting poles in walk and trot.
Because I was having so much trouble with my lower leg I tied the left stirrup to the girth. I only had one strap. I made a huge difference and I am going to try tying both in future.
I look like a bliddy Potty Man... Do you remember Michael Bentines Potty Men?
Anyway today I was concentrating on my lower leg and My contact. I reckon there is a nice difference by the end. He is more relaxed and his head carriage is better.
Here are a couple of us doing a leg yield at a walk
And finally us doing a couple of trotting
poles
2 comments:
Hi Gail,
Thought it may be better if I put my comments on here rather than my usual email, that way you can keep it all together for reference.
Well done with the 'pics. I don't have a big problem with the idea of the leg straps although I would prefer we worked on your seat/position and then the legs will come naturally but I understand how frustrating this early work is and how desperate you are to change.
Remember the things we worked on especially 'feeling' Endy's stride and letting him move you (kinda like a moving massage). Ultimately it is very important to understand the movement of the horse but it is a gradual process and kicking away the stirrups and letting your legs 'hang' will be good for developing not only your seat and leg position but also for you feel of the horse's movement.
Last comment for now. HANDS!! remember how we held them close together (ideally the bit's width apart) and offered forward. In some of your 'pics your hands are very wide and down on your thighs, remember to 'carry' them so that they allow your seat to develop. Wide hands tend to make your seat more vunerable and insecure and also block the horse if you drop them too low.
Keep up the great work, Trudi
Gail,
I salute you!
What an honest and genuine blog!
You are using professional teaching to improve your riding for your horse's sake, and look at the miraculous improvements you have made already!
You deserve to feel proud of yourself - and of your horse - for the work you are doing together.
As a teacher myself, I know how resistant most people are to change, yet you are prepared to change and grow and show others the way by writing your blog.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading it and look forward to the next instalment.
Best wishes,
Gill from London
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