by Susie Gilliland

Created on: July 30, 2008   Last Updated: December 14, 2009

So, you are certain you are ready to "dive in" and learn to ride your horse bareback. You have come to the right place to gain some simple but important knowledge so you can safely get started. Riding your horse bareback has many benefits to both you and your horse.

For instance, it is a great way for beginners and experienced riders alike to build great balance and posture. It also compels you to use and exercise many different muscles you probably don't generally use on a day to day basis. It also allows you to become more familiar with your horse and learn to study and understand your horse's movements. With a saddle you have to be concerned with getting your leg stuck in the stirrups but not when you are riding bareback, this concern is eliminated. Not to mention the benefit of having and creating a deeper bond with your horse. Your horse will appreciate not having all that heavy riding gear on that can add an additional 50-100 pounds and your horse will generally stay cooler as well. You are also building trust with yourself as well as your horse which can be extremely rewarding.

Before beginning, select a good riding horse that is known to be docile, well-trained, has a smooth gait and is familiar to you. This will make things a lot easier and safer for both you and your horse. Also, you will need to always wear a helmet to protect yourself if and when a fall should occur.

Some riders prefer a shorter horse for bareback riding for the simple fact if you have a shorter horse you have a shorter distance to fall. Be sure your horse has a bit and reins or some sort of rope slightly tied around the neck for control and in case you slip while riding. Make sure if you do you a rope or strap of leather around the neck that it is secure but not to tight on the neck of your horse. A bareback pad is optional depending on how you feel about using one. Some experts and more experienced riders do not like them due to the fact that they have a tendency to slip, other riders like the fact that they are more comfortable than nothing at all the choice is up to you.

Also, have an emergency dismount plan in place for when you fall and even the most experienced rider will fall in the beginning. Lean forward, quickly drop your reins, and throw you leg over the side of your horse. Do this as fast as possible so that you have a better chance of landing on your feet and not you head. This is also a lot less painful way to fall when you do take an unexpected spill. This is why

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