Help with position please!

[sleepykitten]

I've posted a few threads on here as I have a relatively new horse who is nappy on his own but perfect in company. A friend of mine has come over this morning to hack out with me, and she has commented that I don't sit up very straight and tend to lean forwards and don't bend my elbows enough. She said it was a wonder my horse doesn't just bolt with me!! I had no idea I was doing this, but I have previously lost my nerve and thought I had it back, but now I'm not so sure! What can I do to improve my position? problem is, its all subconcious, but may be a contributing factor into why horse naps on his own. All contributions gratefully received!

 

[aimeejay]

If you can try and get someone to take some photos of you. Look at the photos and see what your faults are, (i.e if you're heel, hip, shoulder, ear arent in line)
Try working on the faults, then get someone to take some photos again after a few times out riding to see whether they've improved.

Just an idea

 

[Foxhunter49]

We all develop bad faults if there is not someone to tell us what we a re doing wrong so no need to get down hearted about being criticised. It doesn't sound as if it was said in a nasty way but that your friend was trying to help you.
So, be aware of tilting forward, this means that you are not using your seat which is a big factor when riding and one that will help you to master your horses napping.

When you are riding be it in the school or out hacking take your reins in one hand and with the free hand insert two fingers under the pommel of the saddle and pull the saddle off his withers, this will make you sit deep and once you get the correct feel take your fingers away from the saddle. Master the sitting trot and you are halfway there.
As for your hands try to think of the upper arm as being like a strong piece of elastic that stretches and takes from the horse's mouth.

Get videos of you riding and get someone to stand on the ground and tell you what you are doing wrong. You will get there if you try hard.

 

[Stacey6897]

For schooling youngsters or something that's a bit sharp, I tend to use a lighter seat, more weight in knees than seat and have my hands wide and low, sounds like you have your own version of this!

 

[sleepykitten]

Thanks guys, must admit foxhunter, I was quite upset as she told my OH that I was all hunched up and rode like I was petrified! I'm NOT petrified actually and I know I'm not THAT bad!!

 

[sleepykitten]

Like you say Stacey, I've ridden a few horses that buck and I do tend to keep my seat light to try to avoid being launched - its how I ride my mare, to avoid getting bucked off! However, I need to sit up straighter and ride deeper then maybe buggerlugs black b*****d will go forward!