Ridng bareback

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bhpride

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I've ridden bareback two days in a row and it's all rather embarassing I had no idea my balance was so bad, managed a small jump/canter yesterday which was good and quite a bit of trot but was hanging on for dear life for most of it esp as Tia tried bombing over the jump so am feeling rather a shamed
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Is riding without stirrups better for improvement or bareback? Would be a big help to know, usually done everything without stirrups. Thank you
 
I find bareback is best for improving balance. Being without stirrups help, but the ultimate test is saddle less. I go without a saddle frequently and find that when I go back to riding with a saddle, I notice a big difference.
 
But bareback isn't always good for a horse's back. Why not get a really squishy sheepskin numnah/saddle pad and anchor it firmly with a roller and sit on that? Best of both then: no stirrups or saddle, but a comfy horse! And possibly a comfy bum for you lol!!!
 
I was worried about her back suffering as I found my balance. I'll get into the habit of riding bareback once a week, my oh filmed me both times as will which is useful - aching a bit this morning..must get the camera out soon and post some photos!
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I always worry about hurting the horse's back when riding bareback but every now and again isn't going to hurt. It was one of my aims this summer to ride bareback every week and I have managed it, more or less, without any detriment to T's back (had the back lady out a few weeks ago and he was ok).
I ride in the school and hack out, even managed to brave a (very) small jump last week. It has helped my balance & confidence and I'm sure it's helped my lower leg position, especially when jumping. I find it must easier to canter bareback, but I think it's due to a back injury of mine as I find it easier to go with the movement of the horse without a saddle.
Go for it, I say. If you're worried about Tia's back just keep an eye on it and note any changes.
 
I love riding and jumping bareback. Personally I feel it is great for developing balance and an independent seat, especially if you ride on a loose rein so there is no temptation to use the contact to aid your balance. A neck strap is useful if you find yourself getting unbalanced.

We keep sessions short with our boys and they have shown no signs of it being a problem.

Good luck
 
I think bareback will be most effective way o gain balance and no stirrups to lengthen yourself and use you seatbones properly. I do a bit of bareback each week just to keep my balance in check. If you are bouncing too much do no stirrup work first and then go back to bareback. I must admit i always find it hard going from canter to trot i look like a right wallyx
 
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