Expert: Sarah Lothmann - 8/2/2007

Question
Hi my name is nicole i am 15 years old and have been riding for about 11 years, i just have one problem im terrified of galloping, i can canter with no problems at all but the minute the horse starts to run any faster i get scared the horse senses it and i get thrown off, are there any tips or techniques that could help me.

Answer
Rest assured Nicole, many riders get nervous learning to gallop!  Here are both physical and mental techniques you can try.

You can begin by first visualizing yourself on your horse while galloping.  Envision yourself calm, relaxed, and in control.  Hold this in your mind while you groom, while you tack up, and while you ride.  This is important as it begins to build both your confidence as well as your horse's confidence.  

When you ride, be sure your horse is properly warmed up before you try galloping.  A proper warm includes circles, figure eights, serpentines, collection, and gait extension.  When you feel your horse is flexible and responsive, you can spend a few riding sessions focused on extending and collecting the canter.  Remember as you extend the canter to lighten your seat and lighten your hand.  When you collect your canter remember to use a smooth voice saying "whoa", increase the pressure on the bit using your elbows to pull, (not just your hands), and drop your weight from your hips into your ankles and heels.  After you've schooled a few sessions in this manner, then try working without your stirrups.  Incase you need help, be sure to do this with someone watching you.  This process is important as it too builds your confidence as well as your horse's confidence.  This will also increase your strength for the power of the gallop as well as heighten your awareness of your horse's placement in your tack.  

When you feel you and your horse are ready, with feet in stirrups, and a smooth ride in mind, on a straight line gradually extend your canter into a gallop.  It is important to hold a half seat when you gallop so your horse won't be discomforted by you banging around on his back.  While your reins are short enough to maintain a feel in his mouth, remember to use your elbows.  You must follow his neck and mouth by allowing your elbows to open (straighten) slightly.  After you have galloped a few strides, ask for your horse to slow down back to the canter.  Repeat this often.  Each time gradually increase the number of strides you gallop.  Use your voice calmly to communicate with your horse, he will appreciate it!  It is difficult for your horse to turn in a small arena while galloping, so be sure you canter through your corners while you are learning.  Once you become confident and want to try galloping corners, you will need to help balance your horse by placing more of your weight in your outside ankle and heel, opening your outside rein, and lifting slightly with an indirect inside rein while keeping your inside shoulder back.  

This whole process takes a few rides to accomplish.  The key to success is patience.  If you rush, you and your horse can quickly loose confidence.  So be sure to take your time!  Good luck Nicole, and have fun with it!  Learning to gallop can be exhilarating!  

Thank you for asking your question at www.allexperts.com!
- Sarah