If a rider exhibits a front vertical posture with a hollow back and heels up, what is the first adjustment to make?

The first adjustment to make when a rider exhibits a front vertical posture with a hollow back and heels up is to address the pelvis position by implementing a neutral pelvis tilt. This adjustment is crucial because achieving a neutral pelvis position helps to align the spine and establish a proper riding posture. A neutral pelvis serves as a stable base that can enhance the rider's balance and overall effectiveness while riding.

When the pelvis is correctly positioned, it promotes better alignment of the spine, allowing the rider to engage their core muscles effectively. Proper pelvic alignment can lead to a more stable and secure seat, which reduces the risk of falling and increases communication with the horse. This foundational adjustment is often the first step in correcting other issues such as shoulder alignment and heel position, contributing to the rider's overall comfort and performance.

While adjusting shoulders back, heels down, or chest forward may also be beneficial in addressing the rider's posture-related issues, they are secondary to ensuring that the pelvis is in a neutral position first. This establishes a solid framework that can enable effective corrections throughout the body's alignment.