How to Sit in the Saddle When Riding

Last Updated: May 6, 2021 References

Your position in the saddle is the way you sit and balance in the saddle and the way you hold your body. A good position is the single most important skill in riding. If you are leaning back, you are telling your horse to slow down, and if you are tilted too far forward, your horse will speed up. You and your horse must move together and be completely balanced. When competing, proper posture is even more important, because you will be judged. Assuming and holding a perfect position may seem difficult at first, but after a while, it will become second nature.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Upper Body

1
Hold your head up high and look forward. Carry yourself with confidence and make sure that you keep your chin up.^{[1]
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2
Keep your shoulders level and straight by rolling them back. You must position your shoulders correctly if you want your back to be straight.

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3
Stick your chest outward a bit and make your stomach slightly flat. Remember to breathe!
4
Keep your back straight, but not stiff. Keep it flexible so you can move with your horse.^{[2]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Lower Body

1
Sit squarely in the saddle and put weight on both of your seat bones.^{[3]
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2
Keep your legs handing close to your horse's side, without gripping at the knee. Your legs will hold you in the saddle, and give your horse cues.^{[5]
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3
Rest the balls of your feet on the tread of the stirrup. If your leg position is correct and you are allowing your weight to drop down in to your heel, your heel should be level or lower then your toe, depending on the flexibility of your calf muscle.^{[6]
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Community Q&A

Question

What is meant by inside leg and outside leg when riding and turning in an arena?

Community Answer

Inside leg refers to the leg that is on the side of the horse closest to the center of the ring. Outside leg refers to the leg that is nearest to the rail/fence/outside of the ring. These are entirely dependent on the direction you are going in the ring.
Question

Why do I have to keep my heels down?

Community Answer

It gives you more stability when you ride. Make sure to keep the stirrups on the ball or front part of your feet, just under your toes.
Question

Should the stirrups be adjusted for each person?

Community Answer

Yes. Adjust the stirrups so the rider's legs are slightly bent, and if the balls of their feet are on the stirrups (which is correct), their heels should be down.

Warnings

Looking down or tipping your head to one side affects your balance, which in turn, affects your horse's movement.

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If you look at the ground while riding, you'll end up there. Remember, your head is your destination key!

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Use sensible shoes for horse riding, preferably some that are designed specifically for the sport. Using heels like those shown in the images is a high-risk factor if you fall off as they may be caught in the stirrup

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