HorseWise: Getting Back on the Horse After a Fall

eagerness to try it out at a faster pace adds anxiety and risk.
Path If each section of the horses body is compared to a train car the path is the track and lateral control describes a riders ability through the use of different aids to keep each car on that track. Without mastering this control how can you direct your horse to the center of a jump? A horse that bulges toward the gate or picks up the wrong lead can be corrected if the rider understands lateral control. Keeping the horses body aligned during a spook or buck will prevent the situation from getting completely out of control.
Position This is my term for having your horse on the bit in a frame similar to a coiled spring it increases maneuverability and responsiveness. All smooth transitions such as stepping into a canter without the racing trot beforehand and making accurate turns all require a measure of collection. The horse is much more focused elastic and comfortable to ride when hes in a frame minimizing your chances of falling off.
Position also points us to the riders position on the horse. A rider who isnt firmly anchored on the horse with independent control of her hands and legs is heading for a fall. The principles of centrifugal force and inertia we learned about in science class come to life when riders try to eliminate important steps!
After a Fall
If a fall does happen the old saying is to get right back on. I can go along with this principle ONLY after taking some time to analyze what went wrong. What were the steps that led to the incident? How can it be prevented in the future? Do I need to drop down some steps to rebuild the skills and confidence of my horse
 and myself? 
Becoming an accomplished rider skill by skill may not appeal to thrill seekers but like we learned with the story of the tortoise and the hare slower is faster in the long run!