19/03/2024
I always enjoy discussing equine anatomy and function with Gillian Higgins. It assists in, not only more effective riding and training techniques, but I hold that it can also result in greater horse welfare.
That’s why an insight into how the various soft tissue structures and joints in the horse, especially those in the horse’s neck and back, really function is critical.
I’ve witnessed that it can also act as a lightbulb moment for riders, coaches and governing bodies (the latter when writing judging guidelines) when, after an anatomy session, they reflect on whether some conventional dressage terms - such as ‘bend your horse evenly throughout his body’ - are even physically possible?
My personal concern about these type of phrases is if they result in unnecessary pressure being applied to the horse which can be contrary to its mental or physical wellbeing?
(Note: I’ve only randomly chosen that phrase and I acknowledge that the same or equivalent phrase in different languages can have different effects. Likewise the coach has to tailor their phraseology to the pupil or audience directly in front of them.
I am quite comfortable with phraseology along the line of ‘giving the impression of uniform bend throughout its body’ because with enough knowledge of what is - and what is not - possible in the horse’s body one learns how to create this desired impression/observation to the benefit of the horse.
I have long held this belief as regards some traditional equestrian terms, but taking a wider view I submit there is no better time to reflect and review on the terminology which has been used in the past to study its effect and internal/external perception on equine welfare?
Let me know if you agree or not.
On another note, I’m interested in the horses various neuromuscular responses to the touches we apply via our legs and reins and Gillian and I cover this during the filming.
A release date has not been announced yet but it is part of the Horses Inside Out Academy series so keep an eye out on their web
