THE RATE POINT
When you’re in the saddle, the first thing that decides whether a ride feels smooth or chaotic isn’t the reins or the rider’s posture – it’s the rate point. That split‑second moment when your brain sends a signal to fire the muscles that will cue your horse to move. If you miss it, you’re always reacting, never leading.
WHY IT MATTERS
Your horse lives in the present. It can’t wait for you to think about a turn or a stop. The moment you decide to go right, your core, glutes, and hip flexors must already be engaged, creating a clear, steady cue. The better your body anticipates the movement, the clearer the signal you give, and the more balanced the horse’s response.
COACH THOMAS’ QUICK CHECK
1. Stand in your saddle without the horse. When you imagine a cue – say, “transition to trot” – notice how long it takes for your core to engage. If it feels delayed, that’s your rate point lag.
2. Notice the breath. A shallow inhale before a cue usually means your nervous system is still waking up.
3. Feel the timing. The muscle activation should happen **before** you even think about the cue, not after.
BUILDING THE RATE POINT
Practice the “pre‑cue” drill on the ground. Sit on a stool or a gym ball, feet flat, spine neutral. Close your eyes and visualize the next riding cue – a left turn, a halt, a canter transition. As soon as the image forms, contract your deep abdominal muscles (draw the belly button toward the spine) and engage the glutes. Hold for two seconds, then release. Do this 10 times for each cue you use daily. This trains the brain‑muscle loop to fire ahead of the thought.
IN THE SADDLE
Next ride, pick one cue – maybe the “away‑from‑the‑saddle” leg for a transition. Before you even think about moving the leg, take a deep breath, engage your core, and then execute the cue. Feel the difference: the horse responds instantly because the signal was already primed.
WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK
1. Choose two riding cues you use most.
2. Perform the pre‑cue drill on the ground for each cue, three sets of ten reps.
3. During your next three rides, consciously engage your core **before** you give the cue. Write a quick note after each ride: did the horse respond faster?
By training the rate point, you move from reacting to leading. Your horse will feel the difference, and you’ll ride with confidence, knowing your body is always one step ahead.