How to Gallop on a Horse

The gallop on horseback is a more advanced gait that you can practice after mastering the walk, trot and slow canter. Despite its speed, the gallop is a rocking gait and is not generally too rough. The following steps explain how to gallop on horseback and maintain control.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Slacken the reins and gather yourself in preparation. When ready, give the horse a signal to gallop. Use pressure with your foot, a vocal command or click of the tongue, or a squeeze of the thighs combined with a shift forward in your weight and seat.
2. Push through the trot. Many horses will trot first, like a runner jogging before going to a full out run. Continue your signal to push your horse into the gallop.
3. Keep your seat. The secret to the gallop is to go with rocking motion of the gait. Place your weight in your seat (your rear end). Keep your seat in motion with the gallop by maintaining contact with the saddle.
4. Watch your form. Keep your elbows and legs in, and manage the movements of your body. This may be difficult for beginners, but the key is keeping your seat in rhythm with the gait and in contact with the saddle.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not pull up on the horse's reins to maintain your balance. Keep the reins slack so that the animal can naturally move its head. Otherwise you will pull too much on the bit in the horse's mouth.