Debbie Sams: Twisting

Part 14 in the “Deep Seat” series

Twisting

Problem

The pelvis is turning so that one seat bone is sitting farther ahead than the other. This also causes one shoulder to be placed farther forward than the other shoulder. It is possible for only the shoulders to be twisted, but check the pelvis first to be sure (Illus. 42).

Illus. 42

Solution

Practice moving the shoulder and seat bone into their proper places. Have a grounds person tell you when you are carrying yourself straight. This new position will feel crooked to you until it has become a habit. This problem requires much correction from your helper, but the earlier it is caught the easier it is to fix. This difficulty is also related to fitness. A rider who is less fit is more likely to sit in a crooked or twisted position.

Read Part 1 (Sticking to Your Horse with a Deep Seat) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 2 (Deep Seat versus Light Seat) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 3 (Deep Seat Problem and Solution) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 4 (Arched Back — Problems and Solutions) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 5 (Torso Leaning Forward — Collapsed Chest) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 6 (Rounded Shoulders, Collapsed Chest) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 7 (Knees and Heels Creeping Up) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 8 (Toes and Knees Turned Out) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 9 (Gripping with Knees) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 10 (Behind the Motion) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 11 (Heels Up) in the "Deep Seat" series
Read Part 12 (Looking Down) in the "Deep Seat" series

Read Part 13 (Collapsing Hip) in the "Deep Seat" series

Debbie Sams teaches English and Western riding with an emphasis on dressage. At her Springer's Stables in Broadalbin, New York, she also teaches drill team and vaulting. Her farm gives pony parties and holds horse camps for scouts and local community college and elementary school youth programs, as well as for the Sacandaga Bible Conference and Retreat Center. Debbie has been teaching drama and drill team on horseback since 1979; in 1985 she became a Certified Horsemanship Association Instructor. She is the author of 101 Drill Team Exercises and has also put her horse knowledge to work in writing for such publications as Practical Horseman, Equus, and the Northeast Horseman’s Journal.