Back to Basics Dressage & Foundation clinics
Body awareness and improving posture, seat and effect of aids
The Back to Basics clinic by Mariette van den Berg focuses on the biomechanics and rider's seat, posture and relaxation. Classical and balanced riding principles will be applied to increase body awareness and improve the independent seat. A balanced and elastic seat will allow free use of your body and ultimately making the horse more balanced and supple in the movement and responsive to the aids.
Aims & goal of the clinic
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Increase knowledge about biomechanics of rider and horse
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Increase body awareness and improve the independent seat of the rider.
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Improve balance and elastic seat allowing free use of your body and enhance the effect of aids
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Make the horse more balanced and supple in the movements
Biomechanics of rider & horse
Biomechanics is the study of the structure and function of biological systems by means of the methods of mechanics. The knowledge of equine and rider biomechanics turns horse training and riding teaching into a completely logical process. The back to basics clinic and workshop will highlight some of the biomechanical difficulties the horse encounters when carrying a rider and will give suggestions to riders how to recognize these difficulties and how to overcome them.
Classical Principles
"The rider's posture determines his safety and comfort on his horse, as well as the precise effects of his hand and leg aids, and finally the horse's balance, position and gait." (Theodor Heinze, Deutsche Reitkunstschule, (1889, 228, translation: Dr. Thomas Ritter)." In classical terms, the correct seat is first and foremost a functional seat, a seat that allows the rider to influence the horse effectively, because it is balanced, straight, and supple. The outward form of this seat follows its function, i.e. the demands of balance and straightness dictate where the hands, legs, hips, and shoulders are at any given point in time.
Centered Riding
Is a method of riding and riding instruction that is based on the idea of having the rider seated in the most effective position. It combines elements of martial arts, yoga, and Tai chi chuan with knowledge of horsemanship to create a system where the rider is centered and balanced in the saddle. Originally developed by the late Sally Swift.
Riding From The Inside Out
Riding from the Inside Out is a complete guide to posture for riders. It provides a series of riding-specific exercises and posture cues developed by an innovative physiotherapist that will retrain your body. It will also help you to think about your riding in a whole new way, one that is guaranteed to make you the better, more natural rider you want to be.
What are your goals?
Read more about the clinic and what other riders had to say about the lessons in our testimonial section
AGENDA CLINICS
November 2011: 10-13 Nov. Equitana 2011, Sydney Showgrounds
January 2012: Gatton/Toowoomba
February 2012: FNQ (Cairns & Tablelands)
