How to Train a Horse to Ride Bridleless

Many horse people (and non-horse people) have been wowed by the bridleless exhibitions presented by top riders at horse expos and competitions. Some of the biggest names in the horse world, including renowned trainer Lynn Palm and reining champion Stacy Westphall, have developed amazing bridleless displays, including Stacey Westphall's world famous bridleless and bareback reining patterns. But an unfortunate side effect of these displays is that many riders will try to ride bridleless before they have built the necessary connection with their horses.

Things You'll Need

  • Bridle
  • Saddle
  • Voice cues
  • Halter
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Instructions

    • 1

      Watch your favorite bridleless demonstrations, but keep in mind that bridleless riding is an advanced goal and riders should never simply take the bridle off of their horse and give it a try. It is essential to lay the groundwork.

    • 2
      Riding with a bridle is the foundation for bridleless riding

      Work on your voice and leg cues as you build the ground work. A good "whoa" by voice alone is an essential part of any type of riding, but it is absolutely indispensable if you plan to do any bridleless riding. When riding with your bridle, practice saying "whoa" to your horse, then immediately follow up by pulling back on the reins.

    • 3

      Ride your horse with a bridle and saddle. Walk your horse around the arena or pasture and give a firm "whoa." Pull back lightly on the reins as you give your voice cue. Continue to give the voice cue and the rein cue at the same time until your horse responds immediately.

    • 4

      Give your voice cue for "whoa" without the associated rein cue. Reward your horse if he responds to your voice alone. If the response is not immediate, follow up with the cue from the bridle. Continue to work on your "whoa" cue until your horse responds to your voice alone, then move on to the trot and the canter. Be sure your horse responds immediately to the "whoa" voice cue at all three gaits.

    • 5
      Make sure your horse responds to voice cues

      Work on moving your horse with your legs alone, even when riding with a bridle. Move your horse from side to side with your legs--when you apply your leg cues your horse should move in the other direction immediately. Continue to work on your leg cues until your horse responds fluidly and consistently.

    • 6

      Remove the horse's bridle and put the halter on. Tie the end of the lead rope to the ring on the halter so that you have a solid rein to work with. Walk your horse around the arena, round pen or corral and practice your "whoa" voice cue. Your horse should respond immediately. If not, pull back on the reins. Continue to work on voice cues until your horse responds to your voice alone at the walk, trot and canter.

    • 7
      Work your horse in a small, enclosed space when riding bridlelss.

      Take your horse into the round pen with the bridle on. Mount your horse and tie the reins around the saddle horn. Ride your horse as if you were riding bridleless, moving your horse around the pen with your legs and voice alone. Practice your "whoa" command and practice moving all parts of your horse's body with your legs alone. Stop your horse and use your leg cues to move his forequarters and hindquarters around.

    • 8

      Remove the bridle only when you can completely control your horse with the bridle on and the reins tied in place. Having the reins available will protect you in the event your horse misbehaves. Never ride your horse bridleless on the trail--work only in a safe and enclosed space. Even the most well-trained horse can spook and bolt when startled.