In my head Im as bendy as Lilia on Strictly Come Dancing..

[cobden99]

... but its not translating to real life !!
I have always struggled to keep my heels down when riding - and no way in this world can I squat down on the floor without my heels coming up. Now my ankles seem to be stiffening up as well

Can anyone recommend any exercises that may help ? The only thing I can think of is to stand on the stairs and drop my heel down below my toe so it stretches the back of my calf..

 

[jumpthemoon]

Haha! Know the feeling! Oh how awful it is when age starts to creep up on you! Hehehe! Try some pilates or Yoga - they are supposed to be really good for suppleness. The standing on the stairs exercise should help too though

 

[Jemayni]

Heels, dont need to be forced down anyway, I wouldnt be over concerned, otherwise you might end up with my problem (too much weight in heel causes legs too shot forward, causing "armchair chair seat*)

Now, this is only an opinion, so folk dont kill me as it cant hurt! Id recommend getting some books; such as those by Mary Wanless or Sally Swift; who do a fantastic analysis of biomechanics in riding, I promise it will make a lot of sense. Reading such work has helped me to improve my position dramatically, without needing to do unnecessary excercise (we all know excercise is the work of satan!)

Good luck x

 

[cobden99]

Yes I agree, I particularly like MW Masterclass, and Essentials. Unfortunately it was Mary who asked me if I had an injury to my ankle