How to Walk a Horse
Although walking may seem simple, it is important to cue your horse correctly. Remember, you can't gallop until you can walk.
Steps
Mount your horse. Horses are generally trained to be mounted from the left side. If this is your first time on a horse, take a deep breath and relax.
Pick up the reins; this is called "addressing" the reins. Make sure that they're short enough that you can stop the horse, but not so short that you're continually tugging at the horse's mouth. There should be a bit of slack in them. If you're riding a horse who knows how to neck rein, or is in a curb bit, you'll want to make sure there's even more slack in the reins. Ask someone who is knowledgable to show you if you're unsure.
Check your stirrups. Make sure they are not too short or too long. The correct length will generally allow the bottom of the stirrup to be even with your ankle when your leg is relaxed. If you're checking from the ground, place your hand on the saddle above the point where the stirrup is attached; the stirrup should be just long enough to fit below your arm.
Give your horse the first aid. Press your lower leg against the horse. If he doesn't move, give him a light tap with your heel and say "Walk". If he still doesn't move, give him a harder tap with your heel while making a clucking noise. When you give a horse a command, first you request; then you order; finally, you make them do it.
When the horse starts walking, remember to relax! Sit up straight and let your weight sink into the saddle. Imagine that there is a bowling ball inside you, approximately at the point of your navel, and its weight is keeping you in the saddle. Allow your hips to move with the motion of the horse. You should feel your horse pushing you left, then right.
To stop, imagine the bowling ball sinking down even further. Think "stop." If the horse continues, don't panic; just give a light tug on the reins.
Give your horse a stroke and yourself a pat on the back. When you feel comfortable with walking a horse, ask someone how to trot a horse!
Tips
If you're bouncing, you're going too fast. Think "slow down" and pull back slightly on the reins.
Remember to relax and feel the motion through your hips. Keep your lower legs loose.
Move with the horse and not the saddle pretend you are a sack of potatoes, by that we mean RELAX but still keep your position.
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