Help-tense!!!

[joka]

Has anyone got any ideas how I can relax my shoulders and elbows when riding. For some reason my shoulders get really tense and my elbows lock and though I know I do it I can't seem to stop!! Has anyone got any advice and tips on how I can loosen them up and keep them relaxed?

 

[Oldred]

Try practising diaphramatic breathing. Relax your tummy out, then breathe in by feeling just your tummy pushing outwards and ribs at the waist - low down - coming out sideways. That's your diaphragm pulling down to pull in air and it stops you breathing too high up which often causes the shoulders and arms to get tense. It takes some practice to get it but it really works.

 

[parsley]

LOL! I am sort of glad someone else does this - I have gradually come to realise that when I alter my shoulders my horse goes so much better - its difficult isn't it?

I have been trying to be more aware of my shoulders in everyday life and have found that I tend to have the tensed up a lot of the time. Because of this I regularly make an effort to relax them, which is helping. I'm hoping that eventually I will get out of the habit altogether. Driving in the car is also a good time to practice (I practice a lot of riding techniques while I'm driving).

 

[joka]

Thanks. It's nice knowing I'm not alone. Will definately take both suggestions on board-I spend lots of time driving around so it's an ideal time to practice!! Think the breathing is going to take some work-it's a lot harder than I thought but definately makes a difference.