Mary Wanless, an internationally recognized expert in rider biomechanics, joins Rupert Isaacson for a deep dive into the science behind effective riding. With decades of experience in equestrian coaching and a background in physics, Mary has revolutionized the way riders understand their bodies and interact with their horses.
See All of Rupert's Programs and Shows:🌐 https://rupertisaacson.com
Mary was a pony-mad kid who began riding in a British riding school. While studying for her degree in Physics at Bristol University, she was an active competitor in student competitions, including internationals. Physics and riding provided intellectual and emotional ‘safe havens’ for her during a challenging time.
After graduating, she obtained the British Horse Society instructing qualifications and competed in Eventing. Frustrated with her lack of progress, she eventually quit the horse world entirely and moved to London, immersing herself in psychotherapy, biofeedback, theatre improvisation, dance, Tai Chi, and healing arts.
After six months, she found herself drawn back to riding but with a fresh perspective. Instead of striving to be a good rider, she began observing what was happening in her body and the horse. This shift led to remarkable discoveries that evolved into her empirical research on rider biomechanics. Over 40 years, she has decoded the hidden laws of the rider/horse interaction and developed a structured approach that supplies the ‘how-to’ information missing in traditional riding instruction.
Mary has authored seven books, produced 12 DVDs, and created an online membership site to share her work. She continues to work with riders across all levels, from Grand Prix competitors to dedicated amateurs.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The Science of Rider Biomechanics & Postural Restoration (Starts at 02:20)
How Mary’s physics background shaped her approach to riding.
The dangers of cutting out the student-teacher feedback loop.
Why understanding Anatomy Trains (Thomas Myers) is key for riders: https://amzn.to/4ibrGgN
Postural Restoration techniques for riders: https://www.posturalrestoration.com/
✅ How Neurology Affects Riding & Feel (Starts at 16:10)
The lack of neurological pathways between the pelvis and the brain.
Why riders tend to overuse their hands and how to fix it.
Developing true feel through structured biomechanics.
✅ Bridging the Gap Between Language and Riding Experience (Starts at 36:27)
Why elite riders struggle to explain what they do.
The power of specific language in coaching.
How to make biomechanics accessible to all riders.
✅ Core Principles for Effective Riding (Starts at 56:10)
How to properly align your body in the saddle.
The importance of bearing down and proper breathing.
How to let your foot rest instead of pressing down.
✅ The Role of Flow in Riding & Training (Starts at 1:14:22)
Understanding flow state in riding.
Why joy is a subset of flow.
The key to unlocking fluid, natural riding.
✅ Training Tools & Exercises for Riders (Starts at 1:36:27)
The Balloon Breathing Exercise: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDbm8LxfzaI
Using groundwork to enhance under-saddle biomechanics.
Developing a deeper connection with your horse through movement.
Memorable Moments from the Episode:
📌 The revelation that "feel" can be taught (12:03).
📌 How increasing internal pressure affects balance and stability (1:04:00).
📌 Why the feedback loop between rider and instructor is essential (45:36).
📌 The connection between postural restoration and effective riding (1:42:38).
📌 The role of biomechanics in joyful, effortless riding (1:44:17).
Related Videos:
▶️ Mastering Classical Dressage for Horse & Rider | Helios Harmony - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxNDv-ej3m8
▶️ Ep 12: Warwick Schiller – Attuned Horsemanship & The Journey On Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGLv4OwAmkw
▶️ Face Your Bull – The Neuroscience of Overcoming Fear - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFXKjmXxSgI
Connect with Mary Wanless:
🌐 Learn More & Courses: https://mary-wanless.com
📘 Online Training: https://dressagetraining.tv
📕 Books:
Ride With Your Mind Essentials https://amzn.to/439QEcc
Ride With Your Mind Clinic https://amzn.to/43hgqvn
Rider Biomechanics https://amzn.to/3D8j5wu
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