Having trouble relaxing in the saddle!

[ellaandtia]

Hi all,

Recently, I have noticed myself being very tense in the saddle, and I find myself really gripping with my upper thigh, which sort of pushes me ’out’ of the saddle. It also seems to make my lower leg move around a lot, which really messes up my balance!

Im wondering, does anyone have any tips/tricks to help me relax more in the saddle, and to not grip with my thighs?

Thank you!

 

[Jenni_]

If you have Facebook, look at the Activate Your Seat Programme- it’s designed to help deepen and strengthen your seat

 

[J&S]

I have found that using a seat saver helped me sit deeper. I first used one on the horse I ride for his owner after a bout of sciatica and was amazed at the difference. Heather Moffat designed a good one but I just use a woolly one or I have one made from an old sheepskin coat. Obviously this is not the technical or scientific answer but it did help. The other tip is a Mary Wanless word of wisdom: put your weight down your legs so that the outside edge/little toe is the weight bearing area. It stretches out your thighs so you don't grip up.

 

[kajuin]

I struggle with tension a lot as a rider, but I've been working every lesson this month doing no stirrup-work and breathing exercises, and today i was able to sit the canter totally relaxed for the first time ever ? (and I've been riding for ten years!!) .

 

[Keith_Beef]

I struggle with tension a lot as a rider, but I've been working every lesson this month doing no stirrup-work and breathing exercises, and today i was able to sit the canter totally relaxed for the first time ever ? (and I've been riding for ten years!!) .

Our instructors have us do trot and canter without stirrups from time to time; it seems to help have a more relaxed and deeper seat. And some instructors make a point of talking about the expressions we have on our faces, telling us that we need to smile and to relax our faces to feel more relaxed.

 

[kajuin]

If you travel to a show, show up sooner than sufficiently expected to lead the pony around the grounds. Keep the pony on your guides and make a point to give him anything that may be alarming or bizarre.
Tutuapp 9apps Showbox

 

[HappyHollyDays]

I have to work hard to relax in the saddle because I’m knackered. When I do manage it canter is so comfortable and I shall certainly be trying the tips above so I can make it a more consistent thing.