BellaOnline Forums Home and Garden Horses Learning to ride without stirrups

When I first began riding (English), my instructor would always yell at us to drop our stirrups. She probably would have started us bareback if she could.

Now that I'm starting to ride again, I'm wondering if it would be helpful to drop my stirrups in order to find the balance I need.

Anyone else train this way? <img src="/images/graemlins/fish.gif" alt="" />

I have been involved as a side walker for our local Riding for the Disabled Association (here in the UK) and we often get the kids to take their feet out of the stirrups and cross the stirrups over the front of the saddle. I think, as you say, it helps them to regulate their balance and also relax your legs. Great on some of our ponies as they are like armchairs!!

lol @ armchairs comment! I know what you mean.

I think it's the best way to find that balance, sitting deep in the seat. Really, you're not sitting on a horse like you would in a chair, but more straight. As if standing with a horse beneath you. If that makes any sense. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I want to get involved with one of those groups. There's one around 60 miles from my house; one of these days I'm definitely going to volunteer there.