Mastering the Art of Riding Without Stirrups: Techniques and Tips

As a child, I rode my horse bareback, and she was even trained to turn by applying pressure to the base of her neck. Riding without stirrups requires a different approach, focusing on relaxation, balance, and leg control. This article will explore the benefits of riding without stirrups and provide valuable tips for those who want to master this art.

Introduction to Riding Without Stirrups

Teaching a horse to ride without stirrups can be an exciting journey, especially when you have already taught her foundational commands. I once taught my mare to come when called, and then I climbed up on the water trough to mount her. While I didn’t realize it then, these skills are crucial for effective bareback riding or riding without stirrups.

The Impact of Stirrups on the Horse

When it comes to training a horse, the use of stirrups does not significantly impact the horse’s training. However, extra desensitization of the young horse is beneficial, as your legs can have a higher chance of swinging about. The behavior and training of the horse should not change based on whether you are using stirrups or not.

Techniques for Optimal Riding Without Stirrups

Here are some crucial points to keep in mind when riding without stirrups:

Relaxation: The more you tense up, the harder it becomes to ride without stirrups. Try to sit deeply and move with the horse rather than against him. Avoid gripping with your legs; instead, keep your knees and thighs relaxed. Leg Control: Wrap your legs around the horse and ensure your toes point forward. Your legs are essential for balancing and controlling the horse. Keep them in contact with the horse’s sides to help maintain your position. Focus and Attention: When riding without stirrups, keep your focus on the horse and your movements. This will help you stay in control and maintain balance, even at higher speeds.

Many riders, including American Indians and circus performers, have successfully ridden without a saddle. My own trainer used to have me ride with stirrups shortened, lying across my horse’s withers, to improve my balance and leg control. This technique taught me how to stay focused and in control of my “seat.”

Benefits and Challenges of Bareback Riding

Bareback riding has numerous benefits. It’s a fantastic exercise and allows you to get closer to your horse than ever before. I rode my horse without a saddle for the first four years, and it is an incredible experience. You receive direct feedback from the horse, which improves your understanding and connection with them.

However, mastering bareback riding or riding without stirrups does require some skills. The balance is crucial, and if you can ride bareback at a walk, trot, or canter, you don’t need stirrups. They do make it easier to mount and provide more confidence during the ride. During my youth, I was taught to ride without a saddle and stirrups until I could ride well bareback. I was able to jump my horse over 4 and 5-foot jumps while riding bareback, and I never fell off once.

The horse is indifferent to the use of stirrups. They don’t require any additional training to ride, as they are already trained to follow commands. The rider, on the other hand, needs to practice and adjust their riding style to accommodate the lack of stirrups.

Conclusion

Riding without stirrups can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By fostering relaxation, improving leg control, and maintaining focus, you can master this skill. Whether you are an experienced rider or just starting out, bareback riding offers a unique and fulfilling way to connect with your horse.