Does anyone have ideas to help me with my seat?

Hi to all Eurodressage members,
I have been riding for many years and have been unable to solve this puzzle. When I sit the trot, I move too much in my seat. If I hold my seat in place, I bounce a bit.
I have a 16.3 han gelding with a very large and bouncy stride and the problem is more obvious with him. I assume that I am absorbing too much of the movement in that area (I notice that some people absorb it in their necks and their heads nod, etc.) but I'm not sure how or where to redirect the absorption Perhaps I am absorbing it in my lower back and should move it more to my hip flexors? Or if I should continue to absorb it in my seat, but perhaps in a different way? I'm a bit unsure and look forward to hearing other ideas. Thanks!!

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by lesley bruce on June 4, 2008 at 10:15pm

I'm so pleased Barbara seems you are finding the "magic"

another image for you, given to me many years ago by Cpt. Elwin Hartley Edward the author and horseman.

When I was a young lass in the 60's/ 70's he used come to LLandudno Riding Club and give courses. I went with my first horse Jonas who I'd bought as a foal from Wrexham Horse Sales in 1966 for £29. We arrived at our first course in a headcollar, didn't want to spoil Jonas's mouth you see. he was only 3 ,,,,but that is a tale for another day.

The Image Captain Edwards gave was this.

He stood on the ground and demonstrated adroitly all possible seats to adopt for riding in all disciplines. He never once fell over.

He simply said if you take your horse away you should not fall over. I can still see him now you would have sworn there was a horse under him.

Bye for now, must go to bed it's 4.15 am. ... Gasp!!!

Permalink Reply by Barbara F. on June 4, 2008 at 10:22pm

Great image. It's a wonder you could explain it so clearly in the middle of the night (morning?)! I'm usually unconscious by 10:30!

Permalink Reply by Karen on July 1, 2008 at 9:43am

Is his back hollow? Have you got him going forward where he's found his balance, lowered his neck and raised his back? You haven't said anything about his frame in the trot.
I have a horse with a bouncy trot too but when he is closer to being "through", his back comes up and then I can sit his trot.
On the other hand if he is going correctly it could be your position which is a whole other story.

Permalink Reply by Barbara F. on July 1, 2008 at 9:49am

Yes, he is definitely much easier to site when his back is really up. I have changed the angle of my seat and have also gotten a saddle that fits me much better and both have helped greatly.

Permalink Reply by Karen on July 1, 2008 at 9:54am

Oh the saddle is such a help! You sit in the right place, don't have to hold yourself there. All that gripping is disastrous!