The Sports Medicine & Science Institute (SMSI) Rider Development Clinic covers the science of classical ballet training, used in Eastern Bloc development programs for gymnastics and figure skating, as the reference point for the optimization of precision classical dressage technique.  Combined with the lecture, practical exercises in postural analysis and correction provide the participants with a functional understanding of fundamentals that are crucial to a riders capacity to achieve their potential in the sport.  Private consultations are also offered to provide hands on analysis of the spine and extremity mechanics, introduction of corrective work to increase joint range of motion and application of  corrections into the rider specific mechanics of a connected seat, posting, halt/half halt, turn mechanics, spiral seat and lateral movements.

Lecture Duration: 3 Hours

Lecture Outline:

1.  Introduction: Understanding the most advanced science of human movement mechanics today, Classical ballet training as a model for optimal fundamental movement mechanics in all sports.

2.  Postural Mechanics:  Upper Extremity 

• Correct alignment and muscle control 
• Understanding Common Mechanisms of Upper Extremity Joint Injury: Cervical Spine, Shoulder Complex, Arm, Wrist, Hand 

• Correct alignment and muscle control 
• Understanding Common Mechanisms of Lower Extremity Joint Injury: 

4.  Equestrian Specific Application:  Rider Mechanics 

• Rider specific movements: seat, posting, halt/half halt, turn mechanics, spiral seat and lateral movements.
• Understanding the Mechanism of Common Rider Injuries 

• Upper Extremity Alignment, Flexibility and Muscle Control 
• Lower Extremity Alignment, Flexibility and Muscle Control 

A.  Explanation of Private Analysis, Correction and Retraining Sessions for the Rider. 
B.  Application of the corrective procedures to increase functional range of motion on the international level dancer and Olympic level athlete to yield immediate changes in the performance of high level equestrian performance in hunter-jumper, dressage, cutting, barrel racing and reining disciplines.

Private Consultations: 

• Rider Biomechanics Consultations
• Equine: Expanding Human to Veterinary Biomechanics Applications

For questions or additional information, contact: 
.
Stephen M. Apatow
Founder, Director of Research & Development
Sports Medicine & Science Institute
BalletEquestria: Rider & Equine Development Programs
Humanitarian University Consortium Graduate Studies Center
for Medicine, Veterinary Medicine & Law
Phone: 203-668-0282
Email: s.m.apatow@balletequestria.org
Internet: www.balletequestria.org