Читать книгу Geoff Teall on Riding Hunters, Jumpers and Equitation - Geoff Teall - Страница 21

Physical attributes can help your riding, but they are not necessary. The ideal rider has long legs, a short body, and long arms. That is the easiest type of anatomy to work with.

The more you are restricted by your physical size and shape, the more difficult it may be for you to excel. But, even if you are not the ideal body type, take heart. In my experience, good equitation is never impossible.

A good rider needs a good brain. He needs to be relaxed, interested, determined, disciplined, and strong. In many ways, these attributes take precedence over a rider’s physical characteristics.

I really stress with my riders who are not tall or thin (the aesthetically ideal body type) that riding is a sport. The more you regulate your weight and control it, the more you keep yourself fit and strong, the easier riding will be. Riding can be used to help you get in shape. If riding doesn’t come naturally or easily to you, it will still help you develop physical strength, fitness, and control over your body.

The more your age, weight, coordination, or conformation hinders your progress, the more you have to rely on a solid foundation. The most basic part of your foundation of course, is solid position.

Make yourself repeatedly go back and regroup as you practice the basics. Then practice them some more, until you have such a sound, solid foundation that you are secure, comfortable, and as knowledgeable as you can be on the horse.

2.7 Interest is the most important factor in your riding ability. This older, experienced student’s interest in correct position and perfecting her craft shows in her Schooling.

The less raw talent you possess, the more you need to rely on a slow and steady approach to learning how to ride. Do it for the process rather than for the results. And, bear in mind that success is measured in many different ways.

Riding should never be discouraging for you if you are not the “right size” or the “right shape.” The important things are desire and drive and ambition. Don’t despair. Just get to work and get things done.

Start at the beginning. Start with your leg and work your way up. Continually strive to perfect the correct position.

Work on your abilities one step at a time and methodically learn how to ride. Then, methodically teach your horse how to do his job.

The better your foundation, and the more skills you can master, the better you will be able to deal with the day-to-day challenges that arise. You will also find that once you have the basics mastered, your riding will improve exponentially and you and your horse will be much more of a team.