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When a horse starts speeding up, it can be scary for some people. Here's how to avoid falling off.
Steps
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1If your horse tries to run away with you, stay calm. Sit back in the saddle - think of it as sitting on your back pockets. Don't lean forward. This way, if the horse veers, you won't keep going over the top of his head.
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2Grip with your thighs and keep your lower legs relaxed. Try not to let your legs flop around or nudge the horse with your calves. He will think you want him to go faster.Advertisement
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3Sink your heels down into the stirrups; this will push you down into the saddle and keep you on the horse.
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4Shorten one side of the reins, using your other hand to keep a strong grip on the leather as you slide the first hand forward. Let the short-rein hand sit on your thigh and pull the horse into a turn. The horse will have to slow down. Keep pulling, forcing him in small and small circles until he stops. You'll have more power if you keep your arms close to your body.
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5If you've lost a stirrup, don't lean over. Find it with your toes.
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6If you need more stability, grab onto the saddle. On an English saddle, there is often a little strip of leather called a bucking strap. On a Western saddle, grab the horn and press your seat down into the saddle. You can also hold onto the horse's mane at the withers - the little crest at the base of his mane. It won't hurt the horse.
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7If you lose the reins, sit back, hold on, and wait for your horse to come to a stop. Whatever he's got in mind, he's not going to keep going forever. Just concentrate on keeping your seat, and you'll be all right.Advertisement
Community Q&A
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QuestionWhat if the horse moves faster the more I pull the reins to stop?
Community AnswerFirst, try gently pulling back on the reins, if that doesn't work, say "Woah!," then if that fails, start moving your horse in a circle, keep moving the head in closer so it becomes a tighter circle, eventually the horse will slow down, not being able to turn quickly. Then have someone take the bridle of your horse, then dismount. Continually try to use the light rein method I mentioned first. -
QuestionHow do I keep myself from bouncing around too much?
Community AnswerMake sure that your stirrups are the right length. Rise to the trot, sit for the canter, and lean over your horse's back for the gallop. -
QuestionWhat tips do you have for cantering? I have had a go at cantering but kept bumping up and down really hard and I almost fell off.
EquestriangooseTop AnswererRelax, and allow your hips to roll to the horse's canter. Take some lunge lessons on a quiet horse to improve your seat. Use a grab strap so you won't hurt your mount's mouth.
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