Collapsing Hip: Horserider’s Problems and Solutions
A featured entry in the “Deep Seat” series
Collapsing Hip
Usually, a rider is not aware that she is collapsing on one side, but this is a very common problem. Take time to evaluate whether you have even contact with both seat bones. If not, you are in danger of being unseated and of making your horse crooked.
Problem
If you pull your shoulder down and the hip up on the same side, you are collapsing your hip. When this occurs, the connection between the seat bone on that side and the horse is not adequate. This posture causes you to be off balance (Illus. 36).
Solutions
Dowels — Imagine that there are dowels (very straight sticks) that are attached to your seat bones, and stretch straight up to the top of your shoulders. Think about stretching both sides equally (Illus. 39).
Ruler — Imagine that a ruler is stretching up into the armpit and down into the hip. The hip and armpit will stretch apart (Illus. 40).
Balance the bowls — For this exercise we want you to imagine that your head is a bowl; another bowl resides in your chest and a third bowl in your pelvis. These bowls are filled with water. If the bowls tip to the side, forward, or backward at all, the water will slosh out. Therefore, you must keep the bowels balanced (Illus. 41).
Build teamwork and good horsemanship as you work through these fun and rewarding exercises. With clearly drawn arena diagrams and step-by-step instructions for each exercise, your team will become a cohesive unit as you progress from basic skill-building drills to fun and challenging synchronized formations. Debbie Kay Sams even includes 10 complete performance routines with choreography that incorporates the skills and exercises you’ve mastered. Get ready to dazzle the crowd at your next event!
