
The science behind SteadyHands gloves and how to get the most out of them

The short version...
SteadyHands gloves are linked by an elasticised Velcro band with a quick-release clip.
The band can be adjusted to keep your hands at a wider or shorter distance apart.
The clip releases very easily with a short sharp movement, but under constant pressure stays clipped up.
You will use the band like a resistance band, and push your hands slightly apart against it.
This will engage the correct muscles to keep your hands:
1. Upright
2. The correct distance apart
3. In a forward-feeling position
4. Steadier
You will also notice that you are using less hand, and more seat and leg - and your horse becomes happier as a result.


The long version...
The band that links the SteadyHands gloves together (which is adjustable, elasticised and equipped with a safety-release clip) acts as a resistance band across the back of the rider's hands.
By pushing slightly against the band, the rider will engage the muscles of the back, shoulders and upper arms, specifically:
1. Deltoids
2. Latissimus dorsi
3. Serratus
4. Pectoral muscles
5. Abdominal muscles
6. Triceps
7. Brachioradialis
All these muscles work in conjunction to stabilise the rider's seat and arms, resulting in better contact and hand position. Many riders also report an improvement in the effectiveness of their seat.
SteadyHands gloves are not designed as a crutch. Once the rider has felt which muscles to engage, try to see how long you can keep them activated without wearing the gloves. Over time, you will use SteadyHands less.
Having said that, even advanced riders competing at the highest levels use SteadyHands gloves to make minute refinements to their contact.
Which muscles are activated?

Deltoids
These muscles provide dynamic stability of the shoulders. In horse riders, when correctly engaged, they help to keep the shoulders back.

Latissimus dorsi
These muscles stabilise the spine and support good posture. They are important to keep a good, upright position without slouching.

Serratus
This muscles connects the shoulders to the rider's core, and is crucial to good posture. It is a deep muscle but when engaged, it is a very important stabiliser.

Pectoral muscles
These are one of the largest muscles in the upper body and they play a key role in stabilising the shoulders and combatting slouching.

Abdominal muscles
Most riders know that engaged core muscles are the cornerstone of a stable and supple seat. Through the activation of muscles chains, core muscles are engaged when using SteadyHands gloves.

Triceps
These upper arm muscles help riders to keep their arms by their side and stabilise the shoulders. They provide (along with other muscles) the ability to keep the contact forward feeling without moving the upper body forwards.

Brachioradialis
These are the large forearm muscles, which primarily flex the forearm at the elbow. Properly engaged, they stabiliseandencourage a bend in the elbows. This is key to achieving a steady contact, as the elbow is often thought of as the link between the seat and the bit.
I am using these gloves to help me develop more CONSISTENT quiet hands. They are making a big difference! Thank you Equisk!
These gloves are a great training tool, but when I ride with the strap over top of my hands it encourages "piano hands". Easy fix, however, if you use the strap under your hand, it actually will help fix piano hands as well as forcing you to keep your hands together. Overall a great product!
I have been working to keep my hands forward with a confirmed contact. This glove system is a good tool to remind me to apply my leg and seat instead of fiddling with my reins when I try to slip back into old habits. They are very high quality and are easy to connect when mounted. This may be obvious, but one thing to note is that the rider will not be able to use an open leading rein when the glove system is in use.
Thank you for your review Carol! We're so glad to hear that our SteadyHands Riding Gloves have been helpful in improving your hand position and contact with your horse. Happy riding!
Amazing. Simple as that!!
Thank you for your positive feedback on our SteadyHands Riding Gloves. We are thrilled that you find them amazing and we strive to provide simple yet effective products for our customers. Happy riding!
My granddaughter loves them. Says they be improved her hand position in two lessons .
Thank you so much for leaving a review for our SteadyHands Riding Gloves, Judith. We're thrilled to hear that your granddaughter loves them and has already noticed an improvement in her hand position after just two lessons. That's fantastic!