If a rider does not learn correct English riding position from the very beginning of his or her equestrian education, all future lessons will be tainted and the rider will have much more difficulty communicating with the horse. Furthermore, riding in the incorrect position can lead to discomfort in the saddle and potential injuries.
Battle of the Disciplines
Depending on the type of discipline a rider chooses (e.g. dressage, hunt seat, saddle seat, jumping), instructors might teach a different English riding position. However, the basics are the same across the board and the bottom line is how effectively a rider can give commands.
The correct English riding position can be modified later in a rider's education when he or she begins schooling the horse and competing. In the beginning, though, sitting correctly in the saddle will build a foundation for future knowledge.
The Vertical
When identifying the correct English riding position, it is important for riders to understand how their movements impact the horse. Shifting weight from one side to the other, leaning back or pitching forward can send mixed signals to the horse, and therefore a balanced position is ideal.
When sitting correctly in the saddle, an invisible line should exist from the ear to the heel, and should bisect the shoulder, elbow and hip. Elbows should be relaxed and fluid, free to move with the horse's diagonal, and the hips should be square in the saddle and nestled in the deepest part of the seat.
Head and Center
The two most important body parts in the English riding position are not, contrary to popular belief, the hands and the heels. Instead, focus on the head and center. These are the body parts that will direct the overall movement of both horse and rider, and should therefore take priority.
The head, for example, should face forward, with the rider's eyes directed between the horse's ears. When the rider asks the horse for a turn, the eyes should point in the direction of the bend, but the shoulders should stay square.
The center (i.e. the belly button) should also face forward, and should not follow the shoulders on the corners. This will consequently keep the hips square and allow for more fluid movement with the horse.
Knees, Calves and Heels
The rider's legs are the primary tool for communicating direction to the horse. Bringing the leg back, for example, encourages the horse to bend around that leg, often resulting in an over-flexed animal. It is also important to remember that accidental cues with the legs can confuse the horse.
In the correct English riding position, the knees should stay open to keep the horse's shoulders open to move freely. The calves should maintain contact with the horse's barrel, and the heels should remain suspended away from the horse's sides unless the rider wants to cue the horse.
When a rider sits correctly in the saddle, the heels should be down and the reins should be held with the tail end coming out around the pinky finger. The rider should be able to drop the stirrups immediately, which means only the ball of the foot should be resting on the stirrup iron.
These are the basics of the correct English riding position, but riders will find that there are far more intricacies than can be covered in a single article. The most important thing is the comfort of the rider and the horse, so try experimenting with changes if something feels uncomfortable or ineffective.
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