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Nov. Phelps Column – Learning to Ride Relaxed

It has been made clear to me by no less than four of my instructors that I need to learn to ride RELAXED.

Most notably, I have been informed that my arms are “too rigid” affording “no flexion” in my elbow when using my reins. This is so apparently true that in one (particularly fun) lesson I was likened to the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz, in need of a good oiling!

Add to this my tense back (causing my horse to be the same) and uptight shoulders (practically touch my ears). I am constantly being told to “shake it off” or “loosen up” or, my personal favorite, “take a breath.”

In self-defense, I have to say that I find riding relaxed somewhat of a dichotomy. I mean honestly, how can one be in a tranquil, calm or stress-free state when atop a 1200 lb hot horse barreling towards a series of fences (without the aid of pharmaceuticals)?! To read the whole story, visit www.phelpssports.com

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