Duration Approx. 50 minutes

This is the second video by Sylvia Loch and forms part of a collection of videos for the Classical Rider The Classical Seat and The Classical Seat III

In this the second video in her series, Sylvia works with a variety of students mounted on either their own or her patient Portuguese schoolmaster horses to demonstrate the preparatory work necessary to rebalance the horse. Bringing the hocks more under the body mass to lighten the forehand is the first requirement to help put the horse on the aids so that he may happily carry out the precision work of the manege. We see the correct and incorrect riding of circles, looking for common mistakes involved in applying the aids and understanding how to rectify them. From circle work, the idea of on the hocks is introduced (the quarter pirouette) for turning away from the perimeter wall and an understanding of a more balanced turn (without falling onto the forehand) for approaching the track. The importance of flexions and riding good corners is discussed and how to prepare the horse for lateral work. Early shoulder-in and travers work is explained with the required exercises again using both novice and more advanced horses as guinea pigs. Sylvia rides with pupils, of varying levels showing how to strive for a quiet balanced and elegant seat throughout these exercises. She demonstrates how a lack of force and an understanding of the mechanics of the horse is so important for all combinations.