When you teach you should always be checking your rider’s alignment from the back. It is easiest to do this when they change directions through the middle of the arena – also a good time to add a tack check. When they pass, check if their spine is straight, their shoulders even, their hips even, and their heels even.
The following rider is not even:
But if you look closer, it’s not just the rider, but the saddle and maybe even the horse that are also uneven.
That picture comes from the Equine Chronicle article “Saddle Research Uncovers New Theory in Asymmetry” that I highly recommend reading. You’ll learn how rider asymmetry has so many more intertwining factors than just the rider, and the pictures are great examples of what points/lines on the rider, horse, and saddle to check for alignment.
Enjoy!
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Note: This is not professional advice, this is a blog. I am not liable for what you do with or how you use this information. The activities explained in this blog may not be fit for every rider, riding instructor, or riding center depending on their current condition and resources. Use your best personal judgement!