Rider Biomechanics: Technical Development for Dressage and Equestrian Sports
Stephen M. Apatow, Biomechanics Specialist, Director of Research and Development for the Sports Medicine and Science Institute has expanded a specialized program for the elite dancer in Classical Ballet Training into Olympic Development Programs. The guideline "Rider Biomechanics: Technical Development for Dressage" was compiled for the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Instructor Training Program.
(PRWEB) April 15, 2005 -- Biomechanics can be defined as the study of
biological systems (such the human spine and extremities) in terms of their
physical properties, structure and function. Classical ballet is the most
advanced movement mechanics training system in the world. This system
encompasses an eight-year progressive program resulting in the development of
optimal strength, alignment and control of the human frame in space. Therefore
the biomechanics of classical ballet represent an ideal postural alignment for
the human body in all athletic disciplines.
Dressage, in essence, is the
classical ballet of equestrian training encompassing a relationship of precision
control of the human frame in coordination with the precision movements of the
horse. The rider's control of his/her body and center over the horse's center of
gravity provides the optimal pathway for communication and cooperation between
horse and rider.
The ideal equestrian development program would begin
with instruction of a rider who has correct fundamental movement mechanics on a
well-schooled horse. Proper mechanics of the rider are defined by correct
alignment in riding specific movement.
The classical ballet mechanical
ideal for postural alignment represents the most balanced, integrated and
non-stressed relationship of the joint complexes of the spine and extremities.
It is crucial to understand that any deviation from correct alignment
corresponds with a degree of stress and compensatory changes. This foundation
will prove important not only for sports training but for everyday activities,
such as walking, climbing stairs, working at a desk, etc. The goal is to provide
the rider with tools that will not only benefit equestrian performance, but will
facilitate a positive lifestyle change.
The guideline "Rider
Biomechanics: Technical Development for Dressage" was compiled for the United
States Dressage Federation (USDF) Instructor Training Program
to:
· Provide the trainer with an understanding of
the biomechanical ideal of postural alignment from classical ballet
training
· Emphasize the importance of
flexibility
· Give insight on how to use this
standard reference point to enhance the rider development from beginner through
advanced levels.
To download a copy of the complete article: www.esportsmedicine.org/equestrian/ref/rbdownload.pdf
For
additional information on the Sports Medicine & Science Institute Equestrian
Development Programs, visit: www.esportsmedicine.org/equestrian
Stephen M. Apatow,
Biomechanics Specialist, Director of Research and Development for the Sports
Medicine and Science Institute has expanded a specialized program for the elite
dancer in Classical Ballet Training into Olympic Development Programs and at the
request of the medical community, orthopedic applications that include
entrapment neuropathies, scoliosis, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, fibromyalgia,
friedreich ataxia, multiple sclerosis and veterinary cases (canine,
equine).
In conjunction with this work, he is also president of the
nonprofit organization Humanitarian Resource Institute (www.humanitarian.net), and
serves as a specialist in strategic planning and project development of
initiatives associated with human medicine, veterinary medicine and U.S. and
international law. Current programs include the internet based Biodefense
Reference Library, Foreign Animal and Zoonotic Disease Center, Bioinformatics:
Pathobiological Diagnostics Center and Biodefense Legal Reference Library.
Educational resource development for the veterinary and medical community
include the Foreign Animal Disease Online Course and the Zoonotic Disease Online
Review. To enhance collaboration between Humanitarian Resource Institute and the
international community of scholars, the Humanitarian University Consortium was
formed to enhance the development of initiatives associated with economic,
social, cultural and humanitarian issues worldwide.
Related educational
initiatives include:
Dressage Today: Ask The Expert (April 2000): Workshops
on the topic of rider biomechanics is offered to clubs and equestrian facilities
throughout the United States. Url: www.esportsmedicine.org/equestrian/dt42000.html
Expanding
human to veterinary biomechanics applications: Sports Medicine & Science
Institute. Url: www.esportsmedicine.org/equestrian/veterinary/biovet.html
International
Veterinary Public Health Consortium hosted by Pathobiologics International, the
consulting arm of Humanitarian Resource Institute and the Humanitarian
University Consortium, World Veterinary Association. Url: www.worldvet.org/Article2085.phtml
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Source : http://www.prweb.com/releases/2005/4/prweb229337.htm