How to Ride Bareback on a Bony Horse

Some people، however، argue that using a bareback pad is cheating. So، what are some other things you can do?

Topline and Condition

Your horse may be bony for a reason. Horses that aren't ridden that often، aren't ridden correctly، or haven't been ridden in a while often have less muscle across their spine، which then results in boniness and prominent withers. In some out-of-shape individuals، this is compensated by fat، but not always.

Getting your horse in better shape، therefore، can do something about the "bony spine" problem and is good for your horse anyway. Going up and down hills will help your horse's top line and overall fitness a lot. Always riding the horse correctly، front to rear، also makes a difference. Your horse should be stepping further under himself when you're on top than when at liberty.

Practice

The only other thing that helps is practice. You may want to go from saddle to pad to nothing in graduated stages. If your legs are strong and you have a good seat، you won't bounce up and down as much and are far less likely to end up bruising embarrassing places.

Learning to ride well bareback will help your seat in general. It really helps with developing the "velcro seat" and becoming that rider who never seems to come off no matter what the horse under them does. Be warned، though، if you aren't used to riding bareback، you are likely to get saddle sore، even if you don't when using a saddle.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.