Anettte Willson | 0447337276
Anettte Willson | 0447337276
If you watched the recent Badminton Horse Trials 2026, the winner, Ros Canter, has the most stable lower leg of any rider. You too can train this skill.
Many instructors preach that the “seat” is the first priority. However, as a Physiotherapist, I challenge this. The lower leg is the most important body part to train first. Without a stable lower leg, your seat has no anchor to stabilise upon.
Do you find your leg swinging forward or away from the horse’s side, especially at the trot?
In many cases, riders push their heels down using their quadriceps (straightening the leg), which actually displaces the lower leg. When the lower leg is unstable, the seat becomes dislodged during spontaneous movements or spooks. The result? The rider instinctively grabs the reins for balance.
A leg that swings without control creates constant, unintended “noise” against the horse’s sides. When your leg moves inconsistently, the horse receives a barrage of accidental pressure signals, leading to confusion and frustration. Over time, the horse may become desensitised or “dead” to the leg, or conversely, become anxious and reactive because they cannot find a moment of peace.
Beyond the communication breakdown, an unstable lower leg is a major safety risk. If your leg is swinging forward or back, your centre of gravity is constantly shifting. This makes it nearly impossible to maintain a deep, secure seat, leaving you vulnerable during sudden movements or spooks.
A quiet leg is not about “gripping” harder; it is about achieving a stable, independent alignment through correct muscle engagement. By training your body to stabilise the lower leg, you remove the unnecessary noise and can deliver clear, precise aids. This quietness is entirely achievable with the right biomechanical training, allowing you to ride with less effort and more harmony.
Stability comes from the hamstrings and the pelvis, not the calf muscles.
The Movement Pattern: When your hip is stable, and you engage the hamstring, your heel stays deep, and your leg stays solid against the horse without applying unnecessary pressure.
The Result: Once the leg is still, we can then train the pelvis and lower back for a truly deep, independent seat.
Important Note on Safety: If you are currently managing an injury or chronic pain, please seek professional medical advice. Riding with physical imbalances can lead to long-term compensatory patterns. Always consult an expert to ensure your exercise routine is safe for your specific needs.
If you want to stop the “bounce” and start riding with professional stability, I have two ways to help you:
If you want to focus specifically on core activation and strength, or muscle strength, or movement patterns, browse my Short Online Courses. These are perfect for riders looking for quick, effective fixes.
For a complete overhaul of your biomechanics, join my Online Rider Biomechanics Training. This is my comprehensive “Long Course” that covers every movement pattern in detail, from the lower leg to the independent seat.
If you want more information on this or just want some advice, please LIKE my Applied Posture Riding Facebook page and put up a post. I’m sure your question will be the same as many others’.
Enjoy your riding and good luck
Annette Willson.
Remember to look at yourself before you blame the horse.
Look Good Feel Good Ride Well
