Lop sided when riding

B.F.G

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8 October 2010
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Can anyone give me some pointers please. I will try to explain best I can!
When riding bareback I notice my right leg appears shorter than left (looking in mirrors) but I am central so guessing my hip/pelvis is slightly forward?
When riding with a saddle and especially when doing a seated canter my right leg seems to be looser and rise up. I am going to see a physio for exercises next week but thought I'd ask if anyone here has had similar problems and how they were overcome? TIA
 
Welcome to my world! I’ve not overcome it but I ignored it for so many years.
I’d love to hear any replies.
I do various stretches and standing in my stirrups out hacking- this definitely helps a lot.
 
I used to think it was just the horse but I've ridden quite a few lately and have the same problem on them all so definitely me not horse or even saddle! 🙄 I've tried different stirrup lengths etc but again no joy. 😜
 
I'm somewhat hitched up on the left side, the reasons are rather long term and complicated but definitely improved with some chiro/physio input.
 
I have a left hip that doesn't really work well - physio has given me some rather horrible exercises to loosen SI and periformis. It's probably got so tight from 20+ years sitting in an office chair. :rolleyes: When I ride and don't check myself a lot, I end up being a good 3 inches over to the right. It's definitely worth going to get some help.
 
As a result of my treatment not only am I more balanced when riding, but I have practically zero back pain (I had major pain following a twist injury) and I now do powerlifting. I never thought I would be able to do it due my back but it's made such a massive difference. All down to my chiropractor! I go once a month for a tune-up to keep me aligned. I would recommend chiropractic treatment to anyone who feels a bit lop-sided, one-sided or having some sort of musculoskeletal pain.
 
Go to a clinical massure or Chiro - make sure they can straighten pelvises then find a good personal trainer who can give you exercises to strengthen your weak spots then find a good yoga/Pilates class.

Hard work but your horse can never be straighter or more supple than you (unless you are utterly brilliant)!
 
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