In horse training, good posture is often viewed as the most important goal to achieve—a hallmark of balance, strength, and grace. But what if we shifted our mindset? Instead of striving to achieve good posture through control or force, what if we allowed it to arise organically? This requires a different kind of effort—one rooted in balance, trust, and connection from back to front, and a clear inner picture that guides both horse and rider toward harmonious movement.
Balance: The Foundation of Natural Posture
True posture begins with balance, not just in the body but also in the mind and emotions. A horse that feels mentally and emotionally settled can relax into their natural movement, finding their unique balance point. This balance is not imposed; it is discovered.
Our role as trainers is to help the horse find this balance by creating an environment where they feel safe and free to move without tension. By working on fundamental exercises that encourage relaxation, rhythm, and suppleness, we pave the way for the horse to explore their balance and alignment. Once this connection is established, posture becomes a byproduct of the horse’s self-carriage, not something we impose.
Connection from Back to Front
When a horse moves in true connection from back to front, their energy flows freely through the body, from the hindquarters through the back and into the soft dialog with the hands. This connection allows the horse to carry themselves with ease and grace.
But this connection cannot be forced. If we push or squeeze a horse into a "frame," we risk creating tension that disrupts the natural flow of energy. Instead, by focusing on the fundamentals—balance, rhythm, and suppleness—we create the conditions for connection to emerge naturally. Through patient guidance and clear aids, we invite the horse to move in harmony with us, building strength and posture gradually over time.
The Power of a Strong Inner Picture
An inner picture is a powerful tool. It’s the clear, vivid image of what we aim to achieve—a balanced, supple horse moving freely and joyfully in relaxed activity. This picture guides not only our actions but also our energy and intention.
But an inner picture is not static; it is alive, supported by the feeling of what we wish to create. This feeling communicates with the horse on a deeper level, providing them with an example of what we are asking for. Horses are highly sensitive to our energy, and they respond to the clarity of our intention. When our inner picture is strong, consistent, and free from doubt, it becomes an anchor for the horse, helping them align with us both physically and mentally.
Patience and Trust: The Keys to Allowing Quality to Arise
Patience and trust are essential when we take this organic approach to developing good posture. It can be tempting to try to speed up the process—to push for quality before the horse is ready. But true quality cannot be forced. It must be allowed to arise in its own time, through a partnership built on trust.
When we trust the process and the horse’s ability to grow into their own potential, we create space for their natural movement to shine. Patience allows us to celebrate small moments of progress, knowing that each step is building toward something greater. Trust allows us to let go of the need for immediate results, focusing instead on the relationship and the journey.
The Organic Path to Quality
By guiding the horse with balance, connection, a strong inner picture, and an unwavering sense of patience and trust, we create the conditions for good posture to arise naturally. This organic approach is not only more sustainable but also more rewarding for both horse and rider.
As we train with this mindset, we discover a deeper connection with our horses—a partnership built on mutual respect and understanding. And in that connection, we find the true beauty of good posture: not as something we impose, but as something we allow to bloom.
So, the next time you ride, take a moment to connect with your inner picture. Feel the balance, trust the process, and let good posture arise from harmony.
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