Where Should the Upper Body be Positioned?
The upper body moves independently of the base and legs. The body should be upright with the chest open and the shoulders back and stretching down. A slight arch instead of rounding the lower back will help support it. Too much arch in the lower back and the seat will come out of the saddle. A slouchy back will cause the seat to rise from the saddle and move the legs in front of the vertical.
The head should be held high and proud with the eyes parallel to the ground at all times. The chin should not jut out in front of the body, it should sit comfortably in line with the chest. The head should turn around with the eyes to look around corners before the horse turns.
The upper body should be relaxed, natural and elegant. The upper body should be strong enough to influence the horse's back and hind legs, but relaxed enough to follow the horse’s motions. A rider’s weight is an aid and should not be abused.