How I Introduce Tackless Riding

The way that I introduce tackless riding to horses is by learning every cue from the ground first. I will ask the horse to walk beside me by clucking and walking forward (when riding, I would shift my weight forward), ask for a stop by saying "woah" and putting my hands up, turn by walking a certain direction (when riding, I would shift my weight in that direction) and motioning my arm in that direction, and for backing up, I would say "back" and back up (when riding, I would shift my weight backward). 

To learn more complex maneuvers, such as trotting and cantering, I would simply raise my energy and say the word. Horses can feel everything that you feel, so if you were to raise your energy, they would as well.

While learning to ride tackless, I always use positive reinforcement! This makes it fun for the horse, and they will be more willing to learn.

Picture credits: 

Zara Allen (second picture)