How to Gallop Bareback

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Last Updated: August 10, 2021

Riding bareback can be both a thrill and a challenge. But more importantly, it is an excellent way to build a bond with your horse and to improve your balance.

Steps

Make sure you are comfortable with all the gaits in a saddle, and in bareback which include the walk, the trot, sitting trot, and canter. You must also be comfortable with your horse.
Never start off with the canter in the ring. That is just asking for trouble, and for your horse to be overworked.
Be sure to always inspect the ground for holes, dips, etc. before you canter. Nothing worse than having your horse trip in a hole, and you falling off the horses neck.
When you are relaxed and your horse is collected, ask for the gallop by squeezing with both legs, and keep your legs against the horse so the horse doesn't quit on you. You should be leaning slightly forward and be moving with your horse. If your horse has an uncomfortable gait, it is ok to slightly lean back, almost as if sitting on your pockets (also think of the dressage canter;scoop forward with your pelvis). You'll know he's galloping by the distinct 4-beat thump, thump, thump, thump. He'll also be going very fast, but do not panic. If you panic, the horse will panic too.
Do not try to go against your horse's motion, or you will fall off! When in doubt, relax, and let your body go with the motion of your horse.
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Question

What do I do if the horse will not go from a canter to a gallop?

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Lean forward, move your hands up the horse's neck, and squeeze your heels hard into his sides, while making clucking noises. If the horse won't move out, stop him, and move him fluidly through his paces. A sharp kick behind the ribs won't hurt him but should give him the message to move with more speed.

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Is it better to gallop in 2 point than 3 point?

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Three-point is better since it is a more secure seat. Only use 2 point if you are going uphill.

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How do I take away the bounce in his trot?

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That's not something you can really change, unfortunately.

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Tips

If your horse starts to run away with you, try not to grip with your legs to stay on-this will only make him go faster. Instead, grab mane and pull back, or turn your horse in a tight circle to make him stop.

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While slowing down bareback, its easy to get a little jarred around! Just lean back and relax. If you are tense, you'll bounce more, and you may hurt your horse's back.

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A cell phone is optional. If you are riding alone, a cell phone would come in handy.

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