How to Ride Sidesaddle

Riding sidesaddle used to be the only way women rode horses. Though it has fallen out of favor in many circles, there are still enthusiast groups across the country.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Sit on the horse as you would a regular saddle but with your right leg across the saddle in front of you. Sit straight up as normal with your shoulders and hips even and square with the horse's hips and shoulders. Your back should be straight.

2. Adjust your weight so that you are not leaning into the left stirrup or hanging on with your right knee too much. Your weight should be balanced and even so as not to cause you or the horse's back to become sore.

3. Keep your shoulders and hips even on both sides. Your right shoulder and hip should not be sitting any further forward than your left shoulder and hip. You will have to remind yourself of this in the beginning.

4. Turn to the right when you are first learning to ride sidesaddle. You can keep your balance better when the horse is turning to the right because of the position of your body.

5. Walk and trot towards the right while learning, slowly working your way up to a lope.

6. Stop your horse by pulling slightly more on the right rein. This will also help keep you balanced.

7. Ride towards the left only after you feel comfortable with your weight and placement of your legs.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't try to do perform any difficult maneuvers before you and your horse are comfortable with riding sidesaddle.