Q&A for How to Ride a Horse at Walk, Trot, and Canter

Each of them has a really refined purpose. When Western was originated, it was geared more towards a working function, like moving cattle and livestock over long distances. English has its roots in fox hunting and racing, so it is more of a refined sport where you also have the ability to introduce jumping and things like that.

That method if perfectly fine. If it works for you, keep doing it. I'm sure your instructor knows what she's talking about.

It's not a number of squeezes but the pressure you use. If you gently squeeze the horse it should walk. If you give a gentle nudge then it should trot, and so forth. Keep in mind all horses are different and may need a stronger cue.

Start getting the horse to march by kicking your left leg, then right leg against your horse's side. Once the horse is walking, kick with both legs and say "Trot on". If the horse refuses, you'll need to spend more time improving your connection and communications with the horse.

I recommend trying the canter bareback on a lunge line. I have bareback pads and surcingles, but if you don't have these, you can always just take the stirrups off of your saddle. Have a handler cue your horse into a slow canter, and focus just on sitting there and not gripping. Don't try to look good - that will come! When you feel comfortable, introduce stirrups. This worked for a lot of my students, so try it!

Squeeze your legs - you basically need to let the horse feel a squeeze on his sides to let him know that you want him to go faster.

Horseback riding is extremely challenging, but also very fun! Just try to take a lesson starting at a walk, and move up a little at a time as you get comfortable.

There are many ways to stop a horse but the simplest is to pull on the reins. Make sure to release the pressure once the horse has done what you asked.

Ask it to slow down. There is no other option. If your horse still doesn't go slower, ask your trainer for some tips.

If you didn't ask your horse to canter, he/she shouldn't have cantered. But for next time, make sure you're not keeping your balance by gripping your heels or knees. Keep your heels down at all times and don't lean forward or back.

It is different for everyone. For some, they might find it easier and some harder. To perfect riding, it takes years of practice.

Every horse responds differently. Try to just put pressure on the sides and see if this makes a difference.

To be a good rider, you need time and practice. If you can have more than 12 days, have more because you have to get used to riding the horse, keep a good posture and everything. Also, try to imagine yourself in a trot and do that while riding - visualising can help a lot.

Squeeze your horse with your legs. Just one or two brief squeezes. The walk should speed up. If the walk you were at before felt like a a stroll through the scenery, this walk should feel like you are trying to go a long way in a short time.