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  Discussion on Swinging Lower Leg
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Posted on Tuesday, Mar 7, 2000 - 1:40 pm:

I have a problem keeping my lower leg still. It tends to swing at the trot and canter. I try to sink my weight into my heels and try not to grip with my knees, but my lower leg still seems to swing. Hopefully, this problem with correct itself as I ride more frequently, but I need some suggestions as to why this happens and how to correct it.

Posted on Tuesday, Mar 7, 2000 - 3:33 pm:

Tami,
I had that problem for years and the best way to solve it is riding without stirrups. It will strengthen your leg and help with your overall balance. Try walking first without stirrups, concentrating on keeping your legs and feet in the correct position. Then move on to a slow sitting trot, then posting trot (boy, that one is fun!). Try trotting in two-point for awhile and you'll realize how much strength it takes in your legs. Do a bit of this each time you ride and before you know it your position will improve and your lower leg will stay where you want it to!

Posted on Tuesday, Mar 7, 2000 - 3:35 pm:

My trainer last night was griping at me for the exact same thing. It is all because of my knee and it is only my left knee that pinches. She had me do exersizes that strengthened my use of my calf and yelled everytime I pinched with the knee. She had me turn my foot out a little bit further than normal and to close my calf on his side more firmly. Hopefully this will help you, I know it made a difference for me.
Carol

Posted on Tuesday, Mar 7, 2000 - 4:00 pm:

Tami,
I can sympathize! It is something I have been working on for a while now. If you can get a copy, try and read For the Good of the Rider (Mary Wanless).

What I like about the book is that it explains in detail those things that the more experienced / talented riders do automatically (and because it is automatic, they never think to tell anyone else!). You will find doing the exercises suggested by Carol and Jennifer will also make alot more sense. Good luck!
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