Eventing Fitness - Expert how-to for English Riders

Eventing Fitness

Modern scientific research has described the galloping position we should use cross country. I like the feeling of poise and focus that Sharon White and ?Inspiration (Bounce) give me in this photo. Bounce is secretly taking a bit of a grip on the reins, and Sharon has closed her hands against the neck to stabilize her speed. Notice she is using her hands against the neck to control her horse, rather than to control her upper body. In a perfect world, I would like Sharon's seat a little closer to the saddle, with her knee bent a little more. From this ?position, Sharon's weight will correctly rise and sink into her knees and ankles. This position absorbs the shock of galloping and reduces Bounce's workload. Besides being scientifically flawed, standing straight-legged in the stirrups at the gallop is unstable and potentially dangerous.

Help your horse feel as good at the end of cross country as he does at the beginning with a solid horse fitness plan.

By Jim Wofford
Apr 13, 2020