The Importance of Leg Postion in Dressage

The Importance of Leg Position in Dressage

            In dressage, the rider’s legs are used in conjunction with the seat and reins in order to effectively communicate with the horse. Correct leg position is important because it impacts the rider’s balance and influence in all movements. A dressage rider’s leg should be relaxed and long, with a slight bend in the knee. When an individual is sitting correctly, an imaginary vertical line should connect the rider’s shoulders, hips, and heels. In order for the upper body and seat to be stable and aligned, the legs must be in the correct position. Upon gaining the desired placement of the legs, it is important to evaluate the length of the rider’s stirrups. If the stirrups are too long, the rider’s seat will be disconnected, tense, and the heels will not stay down. Likewise, if the stirrups are too short, the seat will lack relaxation, true connection, and there will be too much bend in the knees.

            Once the rider’s legs are positioned correctly, the placement should ideally be maintained throughout the ride. A correct position of the leg provides the rider with stability and balance. The legs should lay quietly on the horse’s sides with the heels down. Over time, if the rider’s legs are constantly moving and pushing, the horse will become dull and lazy to the rider’s aids. The control and positioning of the heels become especially important when the rider wears spurs. Bad heel control will lead to accidental use of the spurs. Some horses will ignore the mistake and become dull to the spurs, while other horses can become hot or even explosive.

            A good test that illustrates the importance of leg position involves imagining that the horse disappears from under the rider. If the horse was gone would the rider land standing up and be balanced? If the rider’s legs are too far back, gravity will cause the rider to fall forward to the ground. Likewise, if the rider’s legs are too far forward, the position of the upper body combined with gravity will result falling backwards to the ground.  

            Many times, horses tolerate and become used to the rider’s bad leg and body position. However, with time and determination anyone can improve a weak or incorrect position. The legs are an important factor in communicating with the horse as well as in the rider’s overall balance. A correct leg position will improve the use of the seat, the effectiveness of the aids, and the overall movement and disposition of the horse. The goal of dressage is to create harmony and fluidity between the horse and rider. Incorrect leg position can restrict and hinder the natural abilities of the horse as well as the true capabilities of the rider. The position and effectiveness of a rider’s legs should be monitored and strengthened throughout the levels of dressage. The use of the seat and legs can always be improved whether an individual is riding at the lower or higher levels. Successful riders never become completely content with any aspect of their position. Dressage is a continuous process of education, patience, and the never ending desire to achieve a better partnership and communication with the horse.