slightly bent at 90 to 100 degree angle, head up, back relaxed but
straight, and fingers resting on the chair or table at elbow height.
Now rise and fall as if you were posting. Concentrate on keeping your
hands motionless on the table.
Getting Some Wear and Tear?
If the inside of one leg is getting chaffed check that you are sitting
square in the saddle. Check that your stirrup leathers are the same
length. Compensate for differences in leg length with a shim in your
boot. Most people have one leg longer than the other affecting balance
in the saddle. Chaffing on both legs means your legs are swinging.
Practice keeping your lower leg still and wear riding pants with
leather knee patches or tall boots for extra grip.
Secure Your Seat
You may already be familiar with exercises in the saddle and you
should be able to do them at the trot. These are easiest and most
safely done on a longe line. Try reaching forward and touching your
horse's ears, turn and touch its tail, bend to touch each toe and ride
with your arms out spread eagle. The exercises encourage muscle tone
and balance.
It's Not About Strength
Don't try to pick yourself up with your upper body. Your shoulders
should stay relaxed. There shouldn't be a lot of brute strength
involved in posting. A few muscles might start complain and you could
get winded. Horseback riding is exercise. It may look like sitting,
but then so does bicycle riding. Think of the balance and effort it
takes to ride a bike. What would happen if you were to stop balancing
and pedaling?
Go With the Flow
Allow yourself to be lifted by the impulsion. Some beginners bend
forward. Your back should be almost vertical, with only your pelvic
bones making the up and forward arc
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