How to Halt a Horse

"Whoa" just doesn't work like it did for the cowboys in all those Westerns. The correct technique involves proper use of the reins and some body language.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Riding Boots

1. Raise your hands slightly.

2. Squeeze the reins lightly, tightening them while moving your shoulders back and your hips forward.

3. Lower your heels, stretching out your legs.

4. Stop pulling on the reins as soon as the horse begins to respond to your command.

Tips & Warnings

• Say "ho" in a low voice as you signal the horse to stop.
• If the horse is turned to one side when it comes to a halt, it means your reins are uneven.
• Pulling steadily at the reins will numb the horse's mouth.
• Always wear a hard hat and proper riding boots when you ride.
• 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.

[alliona]

on 6/8/2009 also try exhaling as you finish the halt. breathing properly is incredibly important in riding.

[lestigre]

on 5/14/2009 Another good post on horses! Nice!

[baybeyyy]

on 1/2/2009 Hmmm....I think you should say woah before pulling back...this what I do...

1) Stop riding...stop your body
if he/she doesn't stop then....
2) Say woah
If he/she still doesn't stop then...
3) Hold tighter on the reins
If he/she still deosn't stop then...
4) Pull back slightly on the reins

[hjeluvr123]

on 5/15/2008 The proper method is to
1)sit deeper in the saddle
2)sit up straight and push your shoulder's back
3)stop the movement of the elbows with the horse INSTEAD OF PULLING/SQUEEZING/YANKING/etc.

on 7/6/2006 I usually use words before actions when halting the horse. First, use the word whoa. If he doesn't listen, say whoa and pull on the reins a little bit to get him to stop. He will (hopefully) in the future stop only when the word whoa is used.