The posture and physical preparation of the rider

Optimizing your riding position? Being well-seated while remaining effective.

On Friday afternoon, we enthusiastically hosted a workshop at Aulion Sellier's stand at Equita Lyon to engage with the audience on the topic of "the posture and physical preparation of the rider".

Every year, we, along with Vincent Le Gal, the company's director, choose a topic that we believe is important to raise awareness among riders. This year, the choice was focused on the essential gymnastics and careful attention required in developing a good riding position. "It's not just about looking good on horseback," emphasized Corentin in front of the dozens of people attending our micro-conference. "The key is to be effective, and this effectiveness isn't achieved in just any way." There is, therefore, ONE correct position and not fifty, providing Camille the opportunity to remind everyone that regardless of a rider's level, it's useful to take Isabell Werth as an example! "You don't need to be a Grand Prix rider to try to mimic the great champions. For an Amateur 3 rider, the goal is the same as for an international rider. The aim is to gradually get closer to it."

Corentin insists, "Obviously, having the hands lower is more aesthetically pleasing, but it's mainly because the contact is much better, and the connection to the horse's mouth is clearer." He points out that having lowered legs and steady hands improves the horse's understanding and responsiveness, while Camille explains, "By engaging the abdominal muscles more, the rider manages to stay in the saddle without clinging to the reins and the horse's sides. Independence, precision, and subtle aids also come from the ability to sit well."

For the saddle maker, a good saddle is designed to facilitate the adoption of the ideal position. "We often hear riders complaining about having to readjust themselves in the saddle after lengthening the trot, for example. This should not happen. The saddle should naturally keep you in the right place to minimize your effort." To the recurring question "Is it necessary to have a good saddle when you're a beginner," the answer is unanimous and unequivocal: "I would even say that the more you're a beginner, the more important it is. Isabell Werth could probably perform her Grand Prix test bareback or in an ill-fitting saddle. But an amateur rider should be maximally aided by the equipment. It's the same issue as choosing a horse. When you start, you need to choose a quality horse to immediately develop good habits and have the right sensations," Camille responds. Vincent Le Gal adds, "It's much easier to learn to walk with good shoes! Being well-equipped allows you to correct posture faults before getting stuck in habits that are difficult to correct."

One or two sessions of sports with a coach can change your life, both in the saddle and on foot! The energy you invest will be greatly rewarded with faster recovery after exertion and less fatigue while riding. YouTube is full of tutorials that can quickly transform your riding position!