How to Gallop Bareback

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

1
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.
2
Make sure your horse is warmed up. Never start off with the canter in the ring. That is just asking for trouble, and for your horse to be overworked.

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3
Get your horse to canter on flat, level ground. 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.
4
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.
5
Remember not to slam on your horse's back.
6
Your pelvis should be moving with your horse in a scooping motion. 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.
7
Have fun galloping bareback on your horse!

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Community Q&A

Question

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

Community Answer

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.
Question

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

Community Answer

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

How do I take away the bounce in his trot?

Community Answer

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

Is using a crop with a stubborn horse a good idea?

Community Answer

If your horse does not jump when smacked, use one. If your horse is not used to a crop or can be startled when smacked, use it.