2016 was a Paralympic Games to remember for the British equestrian team, as they recorded their most successful Games to date, accruing seven Gold medals within their total medal haul of eleven. All five riders brought home individual medals, with three Golds and two Silvers secured for Paralympics GB. As many people are now expressing interest in para-dressage, popular rider Erin Orford, who was long-listed for Rio, shares her advice on the matter of rider balance.
What is balance, and how does it affect us when riding?
In biomechanical terms, balance is the ability to maintain a centre of gravity, often likened to maintaining a vertical line through the body. This central alignment provides a base of support which minimises postural sway and keeps the body upright and in control.
The centre of balance is found within the inner ear but the muscles and joints contribute to stability as well. The muscles provide strength, whilst our sensory receptors provide vital information to the brain and body. The ‘somatosensory’ system then gives us proprioception, which sends sensory messages from our eyes and ears to the brain, to ensure the body responds appropriately.
Balance and core strength
Although horse riding keeps you fit, it is important to also be ‘fit to ride’! Having good core strength is fundamental to quality horse riding, and goes a long way to promote a balanced, stable and effective riding position. For me, as a bi-lateral through knee amputee, my core is everything! Your balance and core strength contributes to the position of your hips, seat-bones and shoulders, and allows you to cope with the horse's variation in pace; not to mention when they spook, leap or throw their heads up! It is also important to remember that your own balance has significant effect on your horse’s balance.
Which muscles are involved in core strength?
The abdominal muscles are the main muscles associated with good core strength. My sponsor Derriere Equestrian is especially fond of the Iliopsoas muscles, which attach to the front surfaces of our lumbar vertebrae and coccyx, as well as the inner surface of the pelvis. These muscles contribute to pulling the seat bones forward, providing strength and stability when riding. Incidentally, having comfortable underwear definitely helps you to comfortably flatten your lower back in the saddle and allow these very special muscles to do their work!
How can we improve core strength and balance?
Adding core strength development exercises into your daily routine can help to improve your balance, as can Yoga and Pilates, or swimming, which I enjoy. Remember, good balance and a strong core go hand in hand, and a strong core usually means better posture, reduced back pain and an improved performance. To conclude, don’t forget your comfy Derriere Equestrian riding underwear to really help you sit deeply, mobilise your back and torso, and relax your pelvis!
About Erin Orford
Erin is a Grade Two para rider and bi-lateral through knee amputee, so she has no lower legs; she’s also missing the radius bone in both arms, meaning she has shortened lower arms and only four fingers on each hand. A renowned effective and sensitive rider, she says that a good seat and honed balance are key to effective flatwork, whether able-bodied or disabled.
www.derriereequestrian.com
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