I like this rider. Her eyes and chin are up, her arms form a 90 degree angle with her body. Her ear, hip, and heel form a straight line. Her legs are completely off her horse. On top of that I really like her suit, I'm not sure if you can see it in that picture but its black with a silver windowpane print. Unlike most eq riders she is on the incorrect diagonal on her victory pass like she should be.
I know, I know, this guy isn't riding equitation, but he is a good example of poor equitation. He is hunched over, his heels are actually UP *gasps*. But come on, heels down is basic eq.
The above picture actually her inner calf muscle is on the horse lightly (can be seen in pictures from behind). The bottom of her calf and her ankle are off the horse. The calf muscle on the horse allows for invisible aids which is what is desired for equitation (and all riding really) because she can squeeze and release without drawing attention to the timing. When a rider completely pulls its legs off the horse it is not using its ankle and hips correctly which is very tiring. If you look at the great BNT (old timers included) they may not have a straight back but they have a straight line from ear, shoulder, hip, to heel and a straight line from hand to bit. You have a great idea for a blog, keep it up!
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