AM I STRAIGHT?
For many riders, the concept of ‘straightness’ - in relation to their horse, to themselves, and to the line they ride - can be somewhat baffling.
Rider Biomechanics
We know that straightness is vital for balance, throughness and engagement. We also know that it is important in every equestrian discipline - whether it is cross country, showjumping, dressage or barrelracing - and achieving it can see a marked difference in a rider’s results, whether they are competitive or personal.
Lucy Williams Based in South Australia, Lucy is a registered BHSI (British Horse Society Instructor) holding her IGEQ level 3 international coaches passport. Lucy worked for and trained under Christopher Bartle (current German Olympic coach) at the Yorkshire Riding Centre as one of the instructors. She inspires riders with knowledge and understanding, leading to confidence and the desire to continue to learn. FB: Lucy Williams BHSI Equestrian or Web: www.lucywilliamsequestrian.com
by Lucy Williams
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hen we discuss straightness in equestrianism, we use terms such as ‘on-line’ and ‘in-line.’ For the horse to be ‘on-line’ it must be travelling with its shoulders actually on the line of where you want to go - whether that is the 20 metre circle, the centre line, the related distance between fences, or the tight line through the offset double of ‘skinnies’ on the cross country course. It doesn’t matter where you are but that the shoulders, which we steer, are on-line. Then, we need the poll and the hindquarters of the horse in line with the shoulders, on that line. These are the three most prominent areas, which are susceptible to be coming misalinged. Straightness promotes longevity in a horse’s working life, as loading the lateral legs evenly rather than unevenly (a key priority of straightness) greatly minimises wear and tear on joints and soft tissue.
True and consistent straightness involves both the horse and the rider, and requires harmony between the two. So, knowing how important straightness is for the horse’s health, longevity and performance capabilities, riders need to have an understanding of what straightness actually means and how to achieve it. But perhaps the most important question that they need to ask is … “Am I straight?”