How to Gallop Bareback

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.

Things You'll Need

• Trustworthy horse
• Bridle
• Helmet
• Leather boots
• Long pants

Instructions

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

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

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

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

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

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.