Riding bareback?

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rforsyth1984

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Does riding bareback do any damage to the horse?

My saddle was stolen this week, and it may be a while before I can replace it. I would like to keep my horse ticking over, but as he is heading for 16 don't want to overstress his joints with lots of lungeing.

I was thinking about a bit of bareback work, maybe just once or twice a week, in the school, and mostly walk/trot, with a bit of canter and maybe some polework? Then lunge maybe once or twice a week?
 
I ride bareback all the time, no damage to the horse unless your reall crashing down on to his back (which I doubt!)
Your notice an improved effect on your riding aswell
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Well, I believe that bareback riding is actually better for the horse than riding with a saddle, and certainly not harmful in any way. My horse is quite 'cold backed' when saddled (yes, back and saddle have been checked and rechecked!
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) but not at all when ridden bareback. He works very well (see my siggie) and it's great for the rider's muscles and fitness too!
 
You soon learn not to crash about when riding bareback as you'll come off if you do! lol I would say it's def no worse that riding in a saddle, and arguably better because of the lack of bouncing about!
 
I went for a hack bare back the other night, was a really lovely ride. He actually seemed very happy with no saddle on as i can move with him a bit more. Im planning on doing it more often
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I don't do it lots but people at my yard do. Hacking, schooling the lot. And riding horse to and from field with just a head collar is almost obligitory! I'd say a more natural way for both you and the horse. Enjoy!
 
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