How to Get Better Equitation in Riding

Equitation refers to proper form in horseback riding. Good equitation allows a rider to control the horse more effectively and reduces the incidence of riding related injuries and strains. To improve equitation, combine practice on horseback with a complementary exercise regimen that allows you to strengthen riding-related muscles on the ground.

  1. Lunge Line Lessons

    • Because it's difficult to focus on improving your equitation while also directing the horse, the best place to make changes in your riding is on a lunge line, under the eye of a competent instructor. The instructor controls the horse's speed and direction while giving you feedback on your body position. Riding on the lunge line without stirrups is especially valuable for developing a secure, independent seat, which is the basis of good equitation.

    Visualization

    • Riding instructor Sally Swift pioneered the practice of employing visualization to improve a rider's form. When riding, imagine a hook at the top of your helmet pulling straight up to the sky. Visualize weights hanging from each heel, pulling them down. Hold the reins in soft, closed hands as if you were holding two baby birds. Use soft eyes, keeping your gaze pointed forward while still paying attention to things in your peripheral vision.

    Fluidity Lessons

    • Trainer and educator Linda Parelli helps students improve their equitation using a concept called fluidity. To maintain harmony with the horse, a rider must mirror what the horse's body is doing with her own body. When riding at the walk, the rider employs a subtle walking movement through her hips and shoulders. When trotting, the hip and shoulder movement changes to a jogging motion. When cantering, the movement changes to a smooth skipping motion, like a child riding a stick horse.

    Core Strengthening

    • Maintaining the proper position on horseback is hard work, and requires strength in several small muscles that don't get much use otherwise. It also requires strong core muscles, particularly the abdominals and lower back muscles. Because most equestrians don't ride every day, it's difficult to build these muscles only by riding. Exercises such as Pilates and yoga, that stretch and strengthen the core, make it much easier to ride with proper equitation, and without paying for every ride with sore muscles.