Have my hands improved? Critique Please.

Spastic: Sadly my photographer is a horse noob. I asked him one day if my stirrups were even (sometimes I can't tell because I feel like I'm putting weight through my right leg, when I'm not, or putting too much in it)... he said yes and when I saw the pics, I was uneven until I realised and fixed it myself in the ride.

I have a bunch of walking photos, that show a relaxed horse and rider... three weeks of walking does that But trying to get that in the trot is a bit of work, but I'll get there!

Will try and get a friend to pop out some time soon and help!

Thanks!

Yes, sitting back and tall can suddenly improve lots of things! It helps you to stay in a balanced position over your legs, gives you confidence, and asks your body to use the correct muscles to hold your position: your core. And when your elbows come back, you feel like you have enough wiggle room with your reins should your horse become naughty.

When you feel your horse start to speed up like that, gently bring her back. Sit up tall, yet relax your body deep into the saddle, ease back on the reins through your elbows, and talk to her. Say "easyyyy girllll". Talking helps you to relax as well because you can't hold your breath and talk at the same time. If I were you, I would keep bring her back to the pace you like at the trot. Always do everything like you planned it. Not her running the show. You need to show her you have the confidence to tell her what to do and that you will follow through.

Thank you Gemini, I was given other advice (don't piss her off and just let her run the steam out for a couple of days and then get cracking)... I like to be consistent in my training, but since I respect this person, I went on that advice. I talk to her a lot, it helps with my nerves... the area we're riding in currently is where I fell off and shattered my leg, it's taken us a bit to get out there, so we're both on edge, despite me not feeling like I am, I'm sure my body says otherwise! It's been noted by others who have ridden her out there in the past, that she tenses up too, so I'm sure its a bit of us both. She was quite traumatised by the accident.

Thank you for spending time answering this thread, I appreciate it... will ensure to slow her down to the speed that's comfortable for us both! ^_^