How to Ride on a Western Saddle

Modern Western riding originated on the ranches of the old American West, where experienced Spanish and Mexican cowboys taught American ranch hands their way of riding and wrangling cattle on horseback. Western riding differs from English-style riding in philosophy, methodology and cues. The style of saddle used in Western riding also differs from English, as Western saddles are wider and designed to spread the rider's weight over a larger area of the horse's back. This is ideal for long, strenuous rides.

Things You'll Need

  • Mounting block
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check that the saddle is evenly positioned on both sides and from front to back, and that it remains in place while your horse is in motion. If the saddle is properly positioned, you will stay in place without needing to grip the horse with your legs. Also, check that the saddle is balanced with the horse's back. If the saddle slopes forward on a horse with high hindquarters, the ride will be uncomfortable for you and the horse.

    • 2

      Use a mounting block to get onto your saddle. Distribute your weight evenly on the saddle and assume the traditional position for Western saddle riding. A straight vertical line should pass down through your ear, shoulder, hip and ankle; these joints are best equipped to absorb the shock of your horse's motion. This also will place less stress on your spine.

    • 3

      Make your stirrup leathers even by placing them perpendicular to the ground. Put your feet in the stirrups and tilt your pelvis back and forth until you feel that your pelvic bones are pointing straight down. Your hip joints should not feel as though they're being stretched across the saddle, nor should you feel pain in your hips or lower back.

    • 4

      Warm your horse up on a 20-minute test ride to see if the saddle fits properly. If the saddle slides from front to back, dismount and make sure it is cinched tight enough. If the saddle slides from side to side, dismount and check if the tree -- or the underlying skeleton that creates the general shape of the saddle -- is to narrow. The saddle should move the same amount on each side of the horse, not slipping to one side and staying there.

    • 5

      Ride your horse through its normal paces. If the horse makes a sudden quick movement, you should not need to reposition yourself on the saddle. Your legs should remain correctly positioned and you should also feel stable and confident in your balance.