This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In a message dated 1/2/2007 9:28:32 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: What has not yet happened is installation of a new reflex that overrides the fetal-position reflex when a horse moves suddenly underneath me. Someone suggested sitting on a rubber ball and having someone kick it suddenly, which requires you to readjust your balance. Any suggestions? I want to get beyond the reflex that involves doubling forward and yanking on horse's mouth. That's a hard one. Muscle memory is tough to overcome. My head learned, long before my body could respond, that if a horse does something unexpected, it is far safer to sit back and down and you are less likely to tumble if you just sit a little deeper and sit straight. It helps to not look down, and your shoulder exercises should help too. Abdomenal work will also help keep your core straight.
Even though I have found this effective and it does work, on the odd occasion, while I don't do the fetal thing anymore, I have to work on not standing in my stirrups! My quickest reflex is to put some weight in my toes. Maybe riding without stirrups for a while will take away that reflex!!! Pamela Northern Holiday Horses Welcome Polaris 2 The FjordHorse List archives can be found at: http://tinyurl.com/rcepw
