Things You'll Need:
- a horse
- a saddle and bridle
- a helmet
- concentration
- application
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Step 1
The walk is the first of four essential gaits of the horse. There are others, but these will not concern you until you are very experienced in the first three and have developed sufficient strength and balance.
Each gait is defined by the way the hooves meet the ground as the horse moves. The walk is a four beat gait, which means each hoof hits the ground at a different time. You will feel this as the horse moves. -
Step 2
Once you are mounted (see my article on mounting) gather the reins into either hand by stringing them between your little and third finger, over your index finger and resting your thumb on top of the rein leathers. The excess is laid along the left or near side of the horses withers. You should have light contact with the bit in the horse's mouth. In this style of riding you will always hold the reins in either hand.
Correct your posture (see my article on the essentials) and hold the reins a few inches above the horse's withers. There should be a straight line from your elbow to the bit, your elbows should be just in front of your hips and hanging loosely along your trunk. Gently squeeze the horse's sides with your calves and give with your hands. The horse should move off, if not squeeze again until the horse moves. Do not kick the horses sides. -
Step 3
When the horse moves forward, relax and allow your body to match the horse's movements. Do not anticipate the movements, nor move around in the saddle. Your aim is to move synchronously with the horse and not interfere with his movements.
Do not be lazy and sit like a dead weight in the saddle! You are not a back pack! You will cause the horse discomfort and confusion both by being immovable and by moving unnecessarily. -
Step 4
Ask your instructor or another experienced rider to put your horse on a lunge rein so that you can do some exercises to help you become more confident on horse back.
While on the lunge rein ride at the walk without stirrups or reins. Always cross the stirrups over the withers so they don't bang the horse's sides.
Raise your arms to shoulder level and turn from side to side as the horse walks.
Swing your legs forwards and backwards and lean forward to touch your toes.
Turn, reach for and lightly touch the horse's rump with either arm.
Lean forward and touch your toes.
Lean forward and reach between the horse's ears.
There are many more exercises which will improve your posture, strength, balance and confidence.
