How to Compete in Western Pleasure

Western pleasure is an event that incorporates slow, controlled movements with precise body positioning and control for both the rider and the horse.

Things You'll Need

  • Chaps
  • Jeans
  • Long-sleeved Shirts
  • Vest
  • Warm Jackets
  • Western Reins
  • Western Saddles
  • Bridles
  • Headstalls
  • Saddle Pads
  • Snaffle Bit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get a Western pleasure horse. Typically stock horses are used for this event.

    • 2

      Select a horse that has a quiet disposition. Horses that are hot (high-strung and fast) don't make good Western pleasure horses.

    • 3

      Look for a horse that can trot and lope very slowly without breaking gait (coming out of the gait).

    • 4

      Dress up. Western pleasure events feature riders with glittering and sparkling outfits that include matching chaps, shirts, jackets or vests. Get yourself noticed.

    • 5

      Groom your horse to accentuate his head and neck by clipping the mane short or braiding it so the judge can see your horse's neck.

    • 6

      Sit tall in your saddle with your head up, shoulders back and back straight. Look forward.

    • 7

      Follow instructions. The judge or announcer will call out movements or gaits that are required to be performed.

    • 8

      Stay on the rail. Western pleasure riders follow each other around the outside of the arena. If you have to pass a horse, it means you're going too fast.

    • 9

      Make transitions from each gait smoothly and without the horse throwing his head or swishing his tail.

    • 10

      Ride with a quiet body. Don't make any unnecessary movements.