A dressage/classical seat?

Question

I've ridden hunters for the past 15 years in close contact saddles so pretty much almost in a half seat. I'm wanting to take up dressage and finding it really hard to learn to shift back and down around the horse. U know how it is trying to re-learn something. Any suggestions on developing a nice classical seat? Well besides tons of walking and sitting trot without my irons?

Oh especially those that work on posture and position, not so much on balance. Apparently i do a funny thing with my back and arch in instead of pulling my center back through my spine towards the horses tail.

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

Try some bareback riding it is very similar to riding without stirrups but harder to stay on.  It will help you to strengthen your torso and leg muscles which in turn will help to stop your back from arching.  Try to relax your torso and move with the horse.  You should get a much better feel for the horses movements.  If you have never done it before it will be quite scary but once you get used to it I'm sure you will enjoy the sensation.