While they are developing balance, English riders can attach a short leather strap to the dee rings on the front of their saddles.  They can hold this strap at the sitting trot to help them pull their seat deeper into the saddle.  They can also grab it when they lose their balance instead of grabbing at the reins and the horse’s mouth to right themselves.  They can hold on to it when they first start riding without stirrups and reins on the longe line.  When they feel secure enough to let it go, they can add new balance challenges such as riding with their arms out on both sides, with both arms straight up, or with arms out to the side as they twist from side to side at the waist.

I do not recommend riding with bareback pads to develop balance because they encourage gripping with the calves.  A good saddle helps the rider sit correctly and riders must learn to sit correctly in a saddle for most competitions.  So, they want to learn to do this from the start.

Off-the-horse exercises can be extremely helpful in developing balance.  Many people cannot stand or jump on one foot or do a simple squat without losing their balance.  Any exercise that helps them develop balance on the ground will carry over into their work on the horse’s back.

Squats are a good balance exercise.  Riders can start against a wall at first and move away as their strength builds.  Eventually, they can work up to a one-legged squat with the other leg extended out in front of them.  Trampoline work is also great for balance.  Riders can cross train in any of the martial arts, yoga, ice skating, rollerblading or any other exercise program or sport that challenges their balance.

Don’t be surprised to find yourself revisiting balance and relaxation issues over and over again as you gain riding experience.  Just when you feel relaxed and balanced at one gait, the instructor introduces another and your old issues resurface.  Just when you feel relaxed and balanced on one particular horse, you start riding one with completely different confirmation and gaits.  Or you move outdoors after a winter of riding inside, or you start riding on hilly trails after years of ring riding.  As you steadily work toward the goal of achieving an independent seat, these changes will upset your balance and relaxation less and less.  Just keep riding.