Rider position · Free playbook

The Rider’s
Foundation.

Build a balanced seat, clearer communication, and a stronger connection with your horse.

By Scott Purdum Horse Behaviorist & Rider Confidence Coach

A balanced seat starts with how the pieces work together. Use this system check before every ride, then return to the part of your position that needs attention. Give yourself room to learn; you do not have to fix everything at once.

The System Check

Complete this five-step guideline to become one with your horse. Use this quick assessment before every ride, no matter which discipline you ride.

Scott Purdum demonstrating a balanced riding position on horseback — Check each part of your position before you begin.

Midsection
Upper body
Lower body
Hands
Mindset

Step 01

Midsection Mastery

Close view of a rider’s pelvis and midsection aligned in the saddle — Let the seat bones point down while the lower back stays soft and flat.

Start with the foundation of your position.

Begin with your midsection. A well-aligned pelvis creates the position you need to move with your horse. Let your seat bones point straight down into the saddle and keep your lower back soft and flat instead of arched.

Seat bones: point them down into the saddle.
Lower back: stay soft and neutral rather than arching.
Breathing: allow your belly to expand and your weight to settle through your seat.

Scott’s coaching note

Check your pelvis before adjusting the rest of your position. Everything above and below it connects to that foundation.

Step 02

Upper Body Precision

Think chest up, without pulling your shoulders back.

Your head should align with your hip, rather than sitting in front of or behind it. Instead of forcing your shoulders back, think of a subtle lift through your chest.