How to Ride Without Stirrups at the Trot

Riding at all gaits without stirrups is good for developing a strong leg, an independent seat, suppleness and security. This exercise must be done correctly, or it will only produce bad habits.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Saddled and bridled, moderately experienced horse
• Approved head gear
• Boots with heels
• Large open arena
• Instructor or trainer to stay in the arena with you

1. Warm up your horse as you normally would. Include transitions from walk to trot to canter and back to a walk. When you are ready to begin work without stirrups, gently cross your stirrup leather across the front, or pommel, of the saddle. Move the buckle down toward the ground, and flatten the flap covering the leathers so there is no bump under your leg.
2. Ask your horse to walk, and when you are ready, cue him to trot. Above all else, you must remain relaxed to do this exercise correctly. Your pelvis must be balanced from front to back and side to side. Sitting tall and straight in the saddle with your back relaxed will help you move smoothly with your horse's trot.
3. Make sure your legs hang relaxed, not gripping in your knee or calf and without tipping your heels up and digging into your horse's sides. Keep your arms and hands relaxed as well, without tensing your elbows and tightening your grip on the reins. Your hands should follow the movement of your horse's head and neck without being restrictive.
4. Stay in the middle of the saddle and ride by balance and not grip. If you cannot do this without bouncing in the saddle, you must relax your back and legs. Try transitioning to a walk, release tension in your shoulders and legs and then start over again. Breathe deeply to better relax your body.

Tips & Warnings

• A beginner horse may not respond correctly to your cues to allow you to practice this exercise.
• Try this on a large 20 m circle until you are secure enough to go around the outside of the arena.
• Always wear the proper head gear and boots with heels.
• Use caution when riding in an arena with other horses.