THE CLINICIANS
On the second of May 2019 Annelie Hellström, Tessa Roos and Karin Leibbrandt were invited to Täby Ryttarcenter to give an equestrian clinic in Sweden.
Annelie and Karin, both veterinarians specialising in rehabilitation of horses have made it their goal to teach as much as possible about the importance of correct posture, core-stability and healthy fascia to keep horses sound and feeling well in every area. They combine science behind the biomechanics and many years of experience in training and rehabilitation of horses.
Tessa Roos specialising in the riders seat, balance and posture, makes riders aware of their own body posture and connects this with the biomechanics of the horse.
This team has been developing training techniques for horses and riders that help them to find balance and good posture in a very effective way. The horses enjoy the light contact, engage their shoulder sling and they move effortlessly while enjoying their training.
UNDERSTANDING OF BIOMECHANICS IS KEY
Tessa, Annelie and Karin find it important that riders really understand the biomechanics and the rationale behind the training techniques. This way riders are able to do high quality training at home on their own.
Annelie started the clinic with a presentation about healthy posture and the importance of fascia. Tessa then continued the program with exercises for the riders and the entire audience. Using simple exercises and demonstrations, she made riders aware of their posture and balance.
After lunch, Karin started with a short presentation about the healthy posture and the importance of length in the horse’s neck. She especially stressed what factors are necessary before a horse can lengthen the neck in a correct way.
A horse can only lengthen the neck if:
- He is in vertical balance
- The rider is not pulling the reins, but is pushing the reins forward
- The horse is able to lift his back, so no saddle or rider is in the way
- The horse has enough energy, but not too much
- The body of the horse doesn’t have severe restrictions (fascia)
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT!
Thes points were put in practice by 4 demo-riders who were first challenged to optimize their seats and balance and after that integrated the principles of vertical balance to bring their horses into a good posture with a correct length in the neck. The results were amazing, thanks to wonderful horses, riders and a positive and supportive audience!
IF YOU FOUND THIS POST INTERESTING, YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED TO SEE MORE ON THIS TOPIC:
https://www.equitopiacenter.com/videos/developing-your-horses-back-the-biomechanics-of-engagement/
https://www.equitopiacenter.com/shop/compassionate-training-for-todays-sport-horse-2/
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