Debbie Sams: Not Using Shock Absorbers

Part 15 in the “Deep Seat” series

Not Using Shock Absorbers

Problem

The hip, knee, ankle, and lower back joints are stiff, not allowing absorption of the shock (Illus. 42A).

Solution

Know where the shock absorbers are and how to use them — initially remind yourself that your shock absorbers are located in the hip, knee, and ankle. These joints should be soft and movable to do their job. Spaghetti noodle legs are helpful here. Exercises found in Illus. 8, 10, and 16 are also very helpful in teaching the lower back to allow the shock-absorbing motion to happen.

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
Read Part 14 (Twisting) 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.