Answer

By Your Horse

TTeam Practitioner Claire Marr replies:

Only get back in the saddle when you feel ready to do so, but remember plenty of riders hold tension in their lower backs.
I suggest you find an You’ll be able to use the knowledge of posture and balance you gain from the Alexander lessons and transfer it to your position on the saddle which, you should find, gives you a more secure seat.It’s also worth having your horse checked, as rushing and bucking can indicate tension in his back. His back, saddle fit and teeth should be checked by professionals. Pay attention, too, to his feed – call some feed company lines for advice.
I like Simple Systems feed, which is a fibre-based diet that uses lucerne and unmolassed sugar beet. Alexander Technique teacher, who is also a riding instructor, who can work with you. The Alexander Technique looks at posture and balance assisting the body in ‘finding itself’ again. The technique is non-forceful and gentle and I believe you would find it very useful.When you feel more comfortable, you can then think about riding. You could start with some lessons on a safe schoolmaster before you ride your own horse.
Try the website for the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique – STAT – (www.stat.org.uk). Other useful websites for information on Alexander Technique and riding include www.rideinbalance.co.uk, www.bodysenseuk.com, and www.jonibentley.co.uk
The absence of sugar in a diet like this can have make a marked improvement in some hyperactive horses.