The way I remember learning was on a lunge line, with no reins, and my instructor standing in the middle going up,down,up,down,up, down until i got a feel for it. As far a leg strength, just doing lots of 2 point or posting will build it up. The body should be in a straight line from helmet shoulder hip heel. Toes up heels down. =) It may be helpful to everybody to videotape lessons so that you can go back and actually show them when they're right and wrong