fab lesson

[sophie33]

Went for what will be one of my last lessons at riding school, as share is starting in a couple of weeks. RI was away, so the YO taught us. It was a completely different kind of lesson. We trotted standing in the stirrups, then in 2 point position, then cantered in that position (never done that before - I mean I've kind of leaned forward a bit on hacks but not come right out the saddle like that). Then we trotted and then cantered without stirrups, then finally rode a 20 m circle in canter. I think I was lucky - sweet little forward going horse who helped me out a lot - but I managed to do it all and really enjoyed it. I think it helped my balance and confidence in canter a lot. But every since the backs of my thighs have been rather stiff!
Anyhow it made me think that when I start having lessons on share horse, I will specify that I want to do no stirrup work. Also that I would like to be able to afford to also keep having lessons at RS (but the money just won't stretch that far!)

[WYORider]

Thanks for sharing!! I also enjoy working without stirrups. On my lease horse Red, I enjoy riding him bareback, because my balance is improved upon on so much more than in the saddle. I can't ride my boy Dutch bareback because he has the typical Thoroughbred boney back and it hurts :-(

Best wishes with your share!!

[sophie33]

Thanks WYO rider, I've never tried bareback, but the teenager who owns my share horse rides him bareback sometimes, so perhaps I'll have to give it a go!

[Peanut]

Sometimes it's good to have the odd lesson with a different instructor. I always find that I pick up useful things that way and enjoy a slightly differently structured lesson.

[horses4eva888]

I love no stirrups but everyone else seems to hate it so we never do any in our lesson which is a shame seeing as it helps you position and mine is not to be desired!:D

[Whatanejit]

Delighted you enjoyed your lesson Sophie.

There is something about riding schools that just when you think about leaving them or moving on for whatever reason they throw in a lesson that overwhelms you and makes you want to stay:rolleyes:

Good luck with the share Sophie. Make sure you chronicle your experiences and keep us informed.

xx

Dee

[sophie33]

Thanks Dee. And you are exactly right. The lesson was so good that now I feel I am going to miss the riding school terribly instead of just guilty for abandoning them (the latter is ridiculous I know - I have to keep telling myself they are a business and I'm a paying customer so I don't need to feel guilty :p ).
But I am so looking forward to the share - and I will certainly keep you updated - probably bore you all senseless!