by Mary Knetter

Created on: July 30, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

From Indians on horseback to intricate reining maneuvers, bareback riders have thrilled and awed us with their ability to work in fluid motion with their horse. They make it look easy and flawless; and they make us want to try it too.

Adding bareback riding to your current riding discipline can improve the relationship you have with your horse. If you do enough preparation and know what to expect, bareback riding can also help you be a better rider. Here's some advice to get you started.

WHAT YOU LEARN

The saddle evenly distributes weight over the horse's back and puts you in the most effective riding position. It also muffles the feeling of the horse underneath you. In a saddle you can't feel the back muscles tense and relax.

Riding bareback frequently allows your seat to become independent of your lets, upper body, arms, head and hands. Along the way you'll also get a better understanding of how the gaits and muscles feel as they tense and relax because the saddle won't be in your way.

Riding bareback can also improve your strength and give you better balance in the saddle while your upper body learns how to hold position properly. It is a great tool to help you feel the horse act and react to you and the environment.

EQUIPMENT

Bridle-Use a bridle with a snaffle bit or use a hackamore or bitless bridle. A milder bridle will prevent the horse's mouth from being severely injured in case you fall or use your reins to balance.

Halter and lead rope-A lead rope and halter can be your safety net if you choose to use it. Tie the tail end of the rope around the horse's neck so it lies against the shoulders and won't tighten if you pull on it. Use it to hold on when you need extra security and stop the horse if needed.

Comfortable pants-Don't wear brand new pants or show pants when you ride bareback because you're going to get dirty. Grooming cannot remove all dirt from the horse so without a saddle pad, the only place left for dirt to go is on your pants.

Riding helmet-Wear a helmet when riding bareback. In the beginning, it is much easier for you to fall off while without a saddle so be sure to take care of your head.

Bareback pad-A bareback pad is an optional piece of equipment that can provide cushioning and keep your pants clean. Some bareback pads have tacky material on the bottom to keep it in place, but all bareback pads must be cinched tight enough to prevent slipping. Pads with attached stirrups can be dangerous and won't give you any benefit.

Mounting block-It might

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