Mane Brain: The Science of Smarter Riding
Welcome to Mane Brain, the podcast where neuroscience meets the saddle! Hosted by Audrey Paslow, a board-certified neurologic physical therapist and expert in rider biomechanics, this show dives deep into the brain-body connection that makes great riders.
Each episode explores the science behind balance, coordination, flexibility, strength, breathing, and timing—essential elements for equestrians looking to improve their performance. Through expert interviews, rider fitness strategies, and neuroscience-backed insights, you’ll learn how to train smarter, ride better, and unlock your full potential in the saddle.
Mane Brain: The Science of Smarter Riding
The Learning Sweet Spot: How Simplifying Your Ride Maximizes Motor Learning
As riders, we’re often asking for more from our bodies on each ride - be it more refined communication, better timing, or better balance. Trying to train for MORE of these elements may seem helpful, but neuroscience says otherwise. In this episode, Audrey unpacks how the brain truly learns new movement patterns and why simplifying your ride — by reducing variables and focusing your attention — can lead to more progress, not less.
You’ll discover how the Challenge Point Framework, a concept from motor learning research, reveals the elements to find the optimal “sweet spot” for skill acquisition. When challenge and skill level align just right, your brain gets the highest return on its investment: faster encoding, more efficient balance reactions, and smoother coordination.
Audrey also explains:
- Why removing complexity can actually help your nervous system learn faster
- How feedback and - yes, even mistakes! - can strengthen your brain-body connection
- Why the brain's attention matters in skill acquisition
If you’ve ever felt frustrated by slow progress or inconsistent breakthroughs, this episode will help you understand how to set your brain — and your riding — up for true learning success.
Mane Brain Podcast is part of Anchored Seat's mission to bring neuroscience to the saddle! Learn more about training programs and clinic opportunities at www.anchoredseat.com.