The Art of Movement, through Science.
by Marie-Claude Ainey and modified by Danielle Bussières,
translated by Sasha Ouimet and modified by Heidi Rohrbach.
Biomechanics :
|
MWhen we associate the behavioural aspects of the horse to the principles of the physiognomy of movement, this becomes extremely important in our understanding and respect of the horse in his entirety. The study of equine biomechanics allows us to define our training techniques, producing performances of sound, equine athletes, allowing the elimination of problems. By using the understanding of biomechanics, we give consideration to the movement of each horse. The ultimate goal of this method is to provide the horse with optimal coordination and effort in the use of his body, allowing him to deliver the work that is required of him.
The technological and scientific advances permit a better understanding of the functional physiology of the equine. Performance equitation is progressing steadily towards this ideal. The team of trainer-rider develop an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses, thereby adjusting to each horse's particular training needs. The goal is to actualize full potential, without compromising the horse's health or soundness. It was once said, by one of the great riding masters of the Cadre Noir of Saumur, Colonel Margot : «There is no glory in a victory made at the detriment of the health of the horse» (The Meaning of Life, by Jean-Luc Cornille).
The understanding of the biomechanical notions of riding, provide the basis of the teaching strategies, that allow for a better connection between horse and rider. This in turn, allows for a more harmonious ride which is beneficial for both! In light of the scientific research, the modern technologies of today and the literature provided to us by the great masters, proper training without the use of “gadgets” should be a priority. By understanding the biomechanics of the horse and its application , most of the miscommunication between horse and rider can be avoided. It then becomes a lot easier to resolve the problems encountered while training, making it easier for both!
|
Adapting the training technique to treat, rehabilitate and prevent injuries and physical problems |
Take for example, lameness. Once it appears, traditional medicine most often treats the horse's leg. Using a biomechanical approach, we focus mostly on the origin of the pain, usually found in the dorsal region, to then strategize a treatment plan via a training plan. Equine rehabilitation after an injury, has only recently been developed as a field of research. It isnow being taken more seriously in veterinary medicine. It is now possible to affirm that traditional rehabilitation cannot be beneficial if traditional training is continued, as the original training, is the cause of the injury. As Einstein said, «You cannot resolve a problem with the same type of thinking that created the problem.» (110 sayings Albert Einstein-Strategies for Daily Living)
Finally, the general principles that can be applied allow training without pain! It is now proven that the more movement a rider produces, the more the horse's dorsal muscles contract and tighten. The same tightening effect has also been proven through the taking of electronic readings of neck muscles at rest. It has also been established that the rider sits on precise points on the horse's back, affecting the horse's balance and interfering with the horse's longitudinal movement. |
These findings even if they seem problematic, are not! On the contrary, these critical points are where the rider has the most influence on the movement of the horse. What kind of influence, that is the main question!
In short, whatever approach is used to treat, rehabilitate, or prevent injuries, the discoveries of The Science of Motion have grasped the interest of the equine world. In the unraveling of the mechanisms that control the movement of the horse's spinal column, the principles prove that the rider's movement influences the horse's back. |
Solo uses the application of ground-work and understanding of the principles of equine and rider biomechanics to establish a balanced ride, in harmony and without injury to both horse and rider. In an etheological approach versus a biomechanical approach, the only way to treat a cause and not a symptom, is to respect the horse. Treating the problem as a whole, allows for solutions and experimenation, creating a pathway for a dialogue with the horse, rather than forcing him into submission. This form of work goes beyond the rules, the techniques of submission and the techniques based on artificial aides. This method of training always considers the intelligence, sensitivity, empathy and sense of fairness of the horse. The training method therefore becomes a conversation with the horse, preparing him to mentally optimize his potential in using his body efficiently for the work asked of him!
|
Collaborative performance |
One of the problems in the equestrian world today, as well as in our modern society, is the pressure placed on riders to obtain results as quickly as possible. Even with the best of intentions, the respect and soundness of the horse are compromised in order to attain immediate success. In order to achieve this success, the horse is often forced into submission. Some training methods used in performance gauging, indicate a false sense of collaboration between horse and rider. Horse enthusiasts now a days, believe that there is more than one way to attain efficiency. Many followers have expressed an increasing desire to work with their horses by establishing a confident connection, providing them with a more competitive edge.
|
The biomechanical approach is supported and now validated through scientific research and discoveries. How do you build up a horse in his movement with only aides and technique? How do we keep it beneficial for his body, yet achieve results? In taking the time to dissect each bit of information, understanding thoroughly the basic physiology and respecting the horse as a whole, the methods of Solo Halle allow the horse to become the formidable machine that it is. A true HORSE. In the long term, the advantage of this method allows for optimal efficiencies in the horse's performance and use of its body. This training method is a long term process, requiring much patience and commitment ! A horse trained in this method will enjoy long term success, as well as a long and sound life.
|
The challenge of maintaining a horse which is sound, balanced and in harmony with his rider, without the use of gadgets, is nothing to dismiss. It is with consistency, perseverance, honest interaction and an understanding of the morphology of each horse, that this can be attained. According to Solo's methods, regardless if the goal is pleasure or competition, both amateurs and professionals relinquish the outdated methods and consider the nature of their horse. Many trainers and instructors are empowered by the knowledge of the basics of equine biomechanics. Since they have discovered the existence of methods that are more reasonable, they can now achieve a better performance, through a more balanced body and spirit! As we look towards the advancement this sport and as the horse-rider relationship evolves, we must always remain humble!
|
References :
The New Ride with Your Mind Clinic: Rider Biomechanics-Basics to Brillance, Mary Wanless
Equine Biomechanics for Riding: The Key to Balanced Riding , Karin Blignault
"The Practical Application of the Most Recent Discoveries on the Biomechanics of the Horse's Vertebral Column" and “History of Equine Back Research Studies”, Scienceofmotion.com, Jean-Luc Cornille
Gerd Heuschmann, Biomechanics of the Horse, www.gerdheuschmann.com
And the precious collaboration of : Solo Hallé, Art du mouvement, FEQ Certified Trainer
Geneviève Dumais, FEQ Certified Trainer
The New Ride with Your Mind Clinic: Rider Biomechanics-Basics to Brillance, Mary Wanless
Equine Biomechanics for Riding: The Key to Balanced Riding , Karin Blignault
"The Practical Application of the Most Recent Discoveries on the Biomechanics of the Horse's Vertebral Column" and “History of Equine Back Research Studies”, Scienceofmotion.com, Jean-Luc Cornille
Gerd Heuschmann, Biomechanics of the Horse, www.gerdheuschmann.com
And the precious collaboration of : Solo Hallé, Art du mouvement, FEQ Certified Trainer
Geneviève Dumais, FEQ Certified Trainer