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Abstract |
Harmony between man and horse, and the rider`s understanding of the function of a horse`s body and mind – these are things that knowledgeable horsemen have demanded for centuries. Constant, focussed attention enables the horse to understand barely visible signals from its herd leader or its rider (!) and to act upon them instantly. Thus it is not necessary to treat a horse as if it were either unwilling or deaf.
When the rider sits in perfect balance, his leg tends to fall “self-actively” against the horse`s trunk as it swings away when the horse`s hind leg on the same side moves forwards. This is the only moment in which a horse is able to immediately follow the signal from the rider to move forwards, sideways, or to hold back. Video footage proves what we already knew more than a hundred years ago, but which our sports organisations have somehow managed to forget. Of course we should not let our leg fall against the horse all the time, because then the horse will not register this as a signal. It is explained how to “switch on” and “switch off” the leg signals.
For the equestrian standards in this country, it is essential that young riders are familiarized with the “self-active” leg, as soon as they are halfway firm in the saddle. Youngsters learn this easily and never forget it again; it is far more difficult for adults, as the pelvic ring is no longer so flexible. As there is a definite lack of good riding lessons, an instructive video on this subject would be extremely useful. Sponsors are urgently required!
For riders who have mastered the balanced seat and can feel how their leg falls against the horse`s trunk as it swings away, riding becomes primarily a matter of self discipline.
If we do not examine these matters scientifically, we are in danger of loosing the most important elements of the equestrian art. With this thought in mind, the author uses this essay to argue once again for interdisciplinary research of equitation at universities, and for the support of these projects by high ranking organisations. |
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