Have you ever had one of those moments in the saddle where everything just clicks? That sense of balance, ease, and flow where you and your horse seem completely in tune? Susan Lang, one of the amazing riders I worked with in Wichita, shared her experience after attending a clinic:
“It is amazing how my body remembers the new feel and position each time I ride… My horse also thanks you.”
Her words perfectly capture what tapping and proprioception can do for riders. These simple yet powerful techniques help you become more aware of your body, allowing you to ride with more comfort and connection. In this blog, we’ll dive into why proprioception matters, how tapping can enhance it, and how working with a certified Rider Biomechanics trainer can elevate your skills.
What is Proprioception and Why It Matters for Riders?
Proprioception is your body’s internal sense of where it is in space. For riders, this awareness is key to staying balanced and coordinated with the horse’s movement. By improving proprioception, you’ll move more fluidly in the saddle, which helps you communicate more effectively with your horse.
Without good proprioception, it’s easy for your posture to become unbalanced during transitions, leading to tension in the saddle. Developing this sense allows you to naturally adjust to changes in your horse’s gait, making both of you feel more comfortable and connected.
How Tapping Improves Proprioception
Tapping is a simple technique that stimulates your nervous system, increasing body awareness and preparing you for a more balanced ride. By tapping areas like your shoulders, hips, and legs before riding, you can wake up your muscles and help your body adjust more quickly to your horse’s movements.
This practice also helps release unnecessary tension, allowing you to move with more ease and flexibility. The result is a more centered, confident ride where both you and your horse can perform at your best.
Why It’s Important to Work with a Certified Rider Biomechanics Trainer
A certified Rider Biomechanics trainer specializes in understanding each rider's unique biomechanics. With a trained eye, a biomechanics trainer can assess how your body moves in the saddle and pinpoint specific areas that need improvement—whether it’s posture, alignment, or coordination.
Personalized guidance helps prevent common mistakes that can lead to discomfort or injury. With the right corrections, not only will your riding improve, but your horse will move more freely and comfortably as well.
Incorporating Tapping and Mobility for Better Riding
Start adding tapping and mobility exercises to your routine today, and feel the difference in your riding. Whether you want to improve your balance, posture, or overall connection with your horse, these tools are a great starting point.
I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments or contact me directly to learn more about how to incorporate these techniques into your everyday practice.
Ale
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