How to Ride Horseback

For a smooth ride ...

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Horse Riding Lessons
• Horses
• Horse Reins
• Riding Boots
• Riding Helmets
• Saddles

1. Mount your horse (see the Related eHow for details).

2. Gather the reins toward you, gently taking up the slack.

3. Squeeze both legs against the sides of the horse, behind the girth (the strap under the horse that fastens the saddle securely).

4. Push your hips forward as you squeeze your legs.

5. Relax the pressure of your legs when the horse responds and move your hands slightly forward to prevent jerking on the horse's mouth.

6. Relax and follow the movement of the horse as you sit tall in the saddle.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your legs under you, not swung too far forward or back.
• Keep your feet parallel to the horse's sides. Don't stick your toes out.
• Keep your heels down and your arms, wrists and fingers relaxed.
• Don't ride alone. Have an instructor or experienced rider nearby.
• Horseback riding is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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[Seryl]

on 11/14/2008 ...and you do point your toes. like a / so that when you kick the horse it'll feel it.

[Seryl]

on 11/14/2008 You don't do anything with your hips when you want the horse to go. The horse can't feel it, so it doesn't do anything whatsoever.

on 8/28/2006 When you're cantering, it's important not to keep your hands still, with a medium length rein like you must in the trot. If you hold your hands still, you're pulling on the horses mouth as he canters, and moves his neck forward and back. Consequently, the horse may slow to a trot again, or get mad, and try to buck or something of the nature. The way I've been taught is to move your hands with the motion of the horses neck, that way you can keep your reins the length you need, and not hurt the horse. I've also seen people ride at the canter by lengthening the reins.

on 8/8/2006 Horseback riding requires much practice and balance. I extremely recommend that you take lessons. Even though they may be costly, they are worth it!

on 8/8/2006 Don't forget that you have a voice, and don't be afraid to use it. Your horse will probably respect voice commands much more than hard kicks and jerks on the reins. When you want to speed up, cluck your tongue. When you want to slow down, tell your horse "easy." When you want to stop, tell your horse "whoa." Some horses are also trained by the words of the pace such as walk on, trot, canter, and halt. But always remember not to yell at your horse. Good luck and speak up!