For many riders, the struggle may stem from a lack of solid basics, or a simple misunderstanding of just how active a “quiet” hand really is.

Pan Am Games silver medallist Chris von Martels of Ridgetown, ON, says the secret to his own enviable hands is simple: many, many years of practice. “Having a quiet hand is something I feel is very important in order to create true harmony and contact with your horse. A lot of riders struggle with not having quiet hands for several reasons: first, because of a lack of connection, or acceptance of the contact. The horse has to have an honest, soft contact in order for the rider to have a quiet hand. Second is the rider’s weak seat and lack of core strength in the saddle. Riders must not use their hands for balance. I also often see riders using their hands to try to create impulsion, which obviously never works. The horse must be honestly in front of your leg.”

Von Martels is quick to point out, however, that still hands are not the same as quiet hands. “Quiet hands must not become static or stiff. Most of the time, stiff or too-still hands create stiff and strong horses. Riders often make this mistake in fear of doing too much with their hands. The reality is you have to use your hands, but in a soft and dynamic way.

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