AQHA Professional Horsewoman Jessica Johnson talks about body position in hunt seat equitation during the 2016 Merial AQHA Region Two Championship Show. Here some of Jessica’s tips from the show.
Hunt seat equitation is about showing your individual horse and showing off your skill at riding him.
That’s what exhibitors at the 2016 Merial AQHA Region Two Championship Show learned September 16 during a clinic with AQHA Professional Horsewoman Jessica Johnson.
1) Jessica – a four-time world champion in hunt seat equitation as an amateur and a two-time world champion as a youth – said each horse is an individual and must be ridden as such.
2) “Think about how your horse is built and find a style that works well for your horse,” Jessica said, from the size of your circles to the placement of your pattern in the arena. “Not every horse will work the same size pattern.”
3) When you’re planning your pattern, try trotting through the whole thing to keep your horse from anticipating.
4) Make the pattern even. If there are two circles, they should be the same size. Make your circle
s round not oval.
5) Always look up and plan where you’re going.
6) Elements should flow from one to next in fluid transitions.
7) Stay in frame when your horse stops. Don’t let him wallow around.
8) Keep your horse in frame throughout the pattern. Keep a consistent rhythm.
9) Maintain your own position. Keep a straight line from shoulders to hip to heel. Keep your body balanced with a nice bend in elbow and your ears over shoulders. Don’t break your wrists.
Thanks Jessica for these great tips!
