Legs

[luv2ride]

Does anyone have any tips/exercises to keep my lower legs under me when I ride. They can be on or off my horse. I used to think my legs came forward when my shoulders went forward. But now I can keep my shoulders back well, but my legs still creep forward. When I post without stirrups my lower legs are in the right position, but with my stirrups they are too far forward. Anything ideas would help

[triana411]

Try tying your stirrup leathers to the girth. It will help to keep your leg in the correct position.

I do this all the time when I'm teaching beginners

[qwerty]

I have exactly the same problem!
I don't think my instructor would let me do that though!

[Maci]

When you put your shoulders back, make sure your not actually tipping your torso back! Doing this sends your legs slightly forwards! Ask your instructor to check throughout the lesson that you are sitting up straight! Make sure you have your weight gently in your heel- don't force them down! This will help keep all your weight under you!

Tying your stirrup leathers to your girth might be a bit risky. If something were to happen, your stirrups would be tied down, not loose "freely" (which is safer and gives you the secure feeling). For example, if you fall your foot might not come out, and result in dragging or worse (I speak of the dragging part from experience- NOT FUN!).

Good Luck!
Maci