Excercises in the Saddle

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In order to develop an independent seat, the rider must feel comfortable in the saddle and on the horse. All of my kids learn to perform “around the world” where they pivot in the saddle sitting on one side, backwards, the other side and finally front again. At first this is difficult and scary for them, but after learning how to remain balanced in the middle of the horse, the riders enjoy this excercise. Some even take it a step further by sitting behind the saddle as seen here. I would recommend a person stand at the head of the horse for the first effort as you never know if your horse will want to buck you off his rump. Obviously this pair could perform stunts as neither seems too concerned about this unusual way of riding.