Backing the horse

After the horse has become accustomed to the feel of the saddle tack, the next phase in its training is backing. As in all phases, the horse should be introduced gradually to having a rider on its back. Two people are required for this stage of training, the trainer and the rider. With both people talking quietly to the horse to keep him calm, the trainer holds the horse's head while the rider touches the saddle; she then is given a leg up and rests her body over the saddle. Giving the horse time to get accustomed to the weight, the rider then puts her leg over the horse to sit in the saddle. (Notice that the rider's feet are not in the stirrups; this comes later.) Once backing has been completed, the horse's training continues by gradually transferring the center of command from the trainer on the lunge rein to the rider. This is also a good time for the rider to improve her seat and her use of the riding aids.