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
Hands-Free, Brain-On: Unlocking Rider Balance Through the Lunge Line with My Trainer & Mentor, Cailin Sanford
This week on The Mane Brain Podcast, Audrey welcomes one of the most important guests in her riding journey: her trainer and mentor, Cailin Sanford, a USDF Level 1 Certified Instructor known for her thoughtful, biomechanics-backed approach to horse and rider development.
Following last episode's conversation about “The Learning Sweet Spot” and how simplifying a task creates the ideal environment for motor learning, this episode brings that concept directly into the arena — through lunge line lessons.
Whether you’re a developing rider or an experienced adult amateur trying to refine your seat, the lunge line is one of the most underused but most powerful tools you have. Audrey and Cailin break down:
🔹 Why lunge line lessons work from a neuroscience perspective
How reducing the task's demands frees the brain to focus on balance, timing, symmetry, and postural reflexes — without the steering responsibilities.
🔹 Two types of lunge line lessons (and why riders can benefit from both)
Cailin outlines how each type targets different pieces of rider development, and why they might help shed light on a missing puzzle piece in the learning process.
🔹 Exercises that may be best accomplished on the lunge line
From no-stirrups work, to stability drills, to upper-body coordination — these are the game-changing practices that build a truly independent seat.
🔹 How Audrey and Cailin blend Franklin Method into their clinics
They share why these sessions are popular each year and how this type of training can strengthen a rider's balance, proprioception, and confidence.
🔹 Safety considerations for riders and horses
How to determine if you have the right combination for a lunge line lesson - from thinking about the horse, environmental setup, and handler experience (as well as when NOT to schedule a lunge line session).
🔹 Why lunge line lessons aren’t “just for beginners”
Cailin explains how even seasoned, competitive riders can unlock breakthroughs with this style of training.
This episode combines evidence-based motor learning theory with the practical wisdom of a seasoned and experienced instructor — and echoes the deep trust of a trainer/client relationship.
If you want better balance, better posture, better timing, and stronger connections between your brain and body… this episode is for you.
Interested in working with Cailin & Audrey? Look for details here
Click to learn more about Cailin Sanford, Level 1 USDF Certified Instructor & Winterwood Farm
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.