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| "Dusty" |
"Blue"
I hadn’t realized it has been about five months since I’ve really ridden after my fall in November. When I was able I did get on Blue for a walk around the indoor but that was all I did with him. I’ve been mainly longeing Blue and Dusty trying to get them in shape. Dusty is coming along nicely and I’ve been riding her at the walk to build up her stamina and strengthen her muscles. Blue is still overweight and not fit enough for any extensive lessons just yet.
I rode Dusty this weekend and she hasn’t forgotten anything she’s been taught in the past. You’d think she never had a year off. On the other hand Blue was not into being ridden at all but we took a few turns around the arena anyway. He was as slow as molasses running uphill but we made it through.
Well enough about the horses. I actually bit the bullet and had my daughter video me (said video will never see the light of day except by me or a blind person). I absolutely stand by videos as a testament to pointing out every single fault you could possibly make while riding. I looked god-awful and felt it too.
My position was all wrong while riding Dusty. She’s just a little too comfortable and my legs were in the worst position and it seems I was also assuming the chair position with my seat. Not good. When I got on Blue we worked on getting my position more secure. Using my thighs and calves and not standing in the stirrups. I will be living in the two -point for a long while I’m afraid. Got my seat position right so that’s a plus. Have you ever practiced posting at the walk very slowly…well it’s good for balance and leg strength so we did some of that too.
So the conclusion is: not only are the horses not fit for riding but neither am I. It’s an ongoing process and I have to start the whole riding fitness regime again to gain back what I lost with a few months off. Like Yogi Berra said “It’s Déjà vu all over again!”
Until next time
Quote for Today
There are only two emotions that belong in the saddle; one is a sense of humor and the other is patience.
