The Biomechanics of Riding Bareback

Last Updated on February 25, 2022 by Allison Price

A veterinarian discusses the differences in weight distribution when riding bareback and when using a saddle.

I’m interested in information about bareback riding and its effects on horses backs, such as weight distribution. Are there any studies that compare bareback riding to riding in a saddle? What adjustments can be made to the position of a classical dressage saddle to a bareback one?

(c) Stacey Nedrow–Wigmore

ANSWER To evaluate the weight distribution of a bareback rider and a rider in saddle, I used a computerized saddlepad. While you might think that a larger surface area would make your weight distribution more evenly, I found that there are fewer pressure points when riding bareback. The primary points of contact between horse and rider are the rider’s legs and the horse’s back. Both are moving surfaces. This dynamic connection is disrupted when you add rigid saddles to the equation. Only a very thin person with little padding on her bottom can risk creating pressure points for her horse’s back if she sits still for too long.

Only horses with pain or discomfort in the exact area where your seat bones rest can be bareback-ridden. All other horses should find bareback riding no more comfortable than a saddle and no more work than a saddle. Some horses might feel strange at first. Horses may also be more worried if they feel less stable and balanced.

Biomechanics of Riding Bareback

Bareback can be a great tool for balance improvement and learning to be more connected with your horse. Everyone should learn to ride bareback. It is not recommended to do this on horses with very narrow or high withers. Your riding ability will suffer if you are constantly trying to keep your horse’s miters under control. It can also be dangerous for your anatomy. A bareback pad is a cushioned saddle pad secured to your horse with a girth-like buckle. It can be very unstable and prone slipping around your horse’s belly.

You may find that riding bareback can make you less efficient and more balanced depending on the horse and your body. Your legs will move more forward if your thighs are thicker and your horse is wider. This can lead to your legs being pushed outwards, with your lower legs flapping in wind. It is difficult to properly use your leg aids because of this. Your hip joints cannot expand beyond a certain point. This causes your pelvis to rock backward, causing your body to lose balance. This combination may make bareback riding less beneficial to your riding skills.

You should first practice riding bareback in a secure area. No matter what your goals may be, it’s supposed to be fun. You and your horse will have a lot of fun and relaxation.

Dr. Dr. Joyce Harman blends her traditional veterinary medical training with holistic treatments. She is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Veterinary Chiropractor and also has homeopathy as part of her Harmany Equine Clinic in Flint Hill, Virginia. Dr. Harman was first to purchase a computerized saddle fitting device that allows for a color scan of pressure points underneath a saddle as the horse is being ridden. Her books include The Horse’s Painless Back and Saddle Fit Book.

Allison Price
Allison Price

I’m Allison, born and raised in San Diego California, the earliest memory I have with horses was at my grandfather’s farm. I used to sit at the stable as a kid and hang out with my Papa while he was training the horses. When I was invited to watch a horse riding competition, I got so fascinated with riding!