Читать книгу Geoff Teall on Riding Hunters, Jumpers and Equitation - Geoff Teall - Страница 17

I don’t believe the correct position is “easy.” In fact, when you begin riding it is easier to let your leg and heel come up and to allow your upper body to collapse forward.

It is better, however, if you can keep your weight down in your leg and stretch your legs so they are as long as possible. This ultimately offers a more secure seat and gives you better communication with the horse.

Similarly, it is not easier—but it is better—to hold your upper body straight and strong, while your hands and your arms stay supple. Correct body position gives you strength, security, and balance. At the same time, soft arms and hands allow for good communication through the bit.

An independent seat and independent hands are not easy to develop—but they are necessary. Though classically beautiful equitation is an “art,” every piece of the art form was developed for a reason.

Time has shown us where to be on the horse, in relation to the horse’s build and balance, in order to be the most effective. The fact that it is physically demanding to get there and the fact that it goes against your first instinct doesn’t matter. The fact that it works is what makes it both important and necessary. Therefore, in order to ride well, you need to work hard enough to master the physical demands of correct position.

Mastering the principles of good equitation gives you a tremendous sense of pride and respect. The respect is not only for yourself and for the horse, but for the sport of riding as well.