Controlling the Shoulders Q&A

This week we are zeroing in on controlling the shoulders - how your rein placement, leg aids, and bend keep the forehand on track - plus quick coaching on rehab riding, stiff-sided horses, and whether (or not) to show. 30 Days to Round is underway, and the first live call covered what “forward” really means (spoiler: not just faster).

Highlights

• Hands: Left hand stays left, right stays right—no crossing. Ride leg to hand with an elastic feel.
• Legs = rails: Inside leg creates bend; outside leg + outside rein control the outside shoulder so it doesn’t leak out.
• Rehab on straight lines: Ride shoulder-fore left, then right along the same long side; add only big circles if allowed.
• Stiff on one side: Start with 5 minutes of groundwork (turns on the forehand), then ride and change direction often (hard → easy → hard).
• “I get it, then lose it”: Return to the sequence: Groundwork → Forward → Bend → Round. Small correct moments build topline strength.

30 Days to Round Recap

• Our first live lecture was all about Forward and the recording is now available. Next up is Aids for Roundness on Monday 22nd! I cannot wait for this lecture!

Happy Riding,

Amelia

PS. There's still time to join 30 Days to Round and catch all of the incredible lectures and content! Check it out here!