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How to Gallop Bareback

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

There is no feeling like the feeling you get galloping a horse while riding bareback. It's exhilarating. There are a few items to consider before trying this at home or at the stable, however. Follow these tips to gallop a horse while riding bareback.

Difficulty: Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Trustworthy horse
  • Bridle
  • Helmet
  • Leather boots
  • Long pants
  1. Step 1

    Start a few weeks early exercising your legs and back, paying special attention to the thighs, for strength to cling to the horse's back.

  2. Step 2

    Have a very gentle horse that you trust will not buck.

  3. Step 3

    Wear protective gear, such as leather boots, long pants and a helmet. Use an appropriate bride on the horse.

  4. Step 4

    Get accustomed to riding bareback at the walk and trot. Trotting bareback is harder than galloping, so if you can ride bareback at a trot, you'll be fine. Walk and trot for 10 minutes first to warm up the horse.

  5. Step 5

    Sit up near the horse's withers, relax and breathe normally.

  6. Step 6

    Travel straight out in a walk and then urge the horse into a trot, holding the reins with one hand and a portion of the horse's mane in the other, near the base of the hair.

  7. Step 7

    Squeeze slightly with your thighs and knees. Keep your seat firmly planted on the horses back, heels down and elbows in.

  8. Step 8

    Urge the horse into a gallop, but be ready for a bit of a rough transition from the trot to the gallop.

  9. Step 9

    Keep your reins under control, while giving the horse his head. Cling with your thighs and be ready for another rough transition when the horse slows or stops.

Tips & Warnings
  • Gallop bareback on a horse in a plowed arena at first, in case you fall off. The landing is softer.
  • Practice keeping your seat planted when riding bareback by placing a tissue flat under it to see how long you can hold it there.
  • Never ride alone.
  • Always check your tack for cracked or weak points, and replace when needed.
  • Wear protective gear.

Comments  

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on 3/18/2008 I love riding bareback and I agree one hundred percent that trotting bareback is harder than galloping bareback, but instead of immediately transitioning into the gallop from the trot, calmly urge the horse into a slow canter and build up speed until you are galloping. It is much easier and smoother that way, trust me!

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