How to Keep Your Butt in the Saddle

Staying in the saddle requires balance.

Learning to ride a horse is challenging; one of the biggest challenges is developing your balance in the saddle. Achieving the proper sitting position takes practice and concentration. Using saddle accessories designed to help the saddle, and you, stay put can also help.

Things You'll Need

• Saddle
• Breastplate or breast collar
• Crupper

Instructions

1. Monitor your posture in the saddle. According to Stock Horse Show Source.com, a rider should have a straight line from ear to shoulder to hip to heel.

2. Refrain from tensing your lower back. This can make your body lean forward and your hips lift. Your weight should be equally balanced through your hips, with your "butt" planted deep in the saddle.

3. Place the balls of your feet in the stirrups and keep your heels down. Your knees shouldn't grip the saddle.

4. Pay attention to the rhythm of your horse. If you can develop a feel for its movements, you'll be able to adapt your own to match its pace and rhythm.

5. Use a breastplate/collar and crupper to help keep the saddle in place. A breastplate or breast collar will help keep your saddle from slipping back; a crupper helps keep it from slipping forward. Both will help you maintain your position.

References

• Stock Horse Show Source: Horse Riding Tips
• Endurance Training: Endurance Training Tips