i know this sound reallly dumb but....

[missy_g]

Can anyone tell me the correct way to gallop please :D i know that sounds really dumb :rolleyes: but i was just wondering if you have to do more than just kicking. thanks 4 reading this. :eek:

[Showjumper]

NEVER kick. Do like Wally says and tickle.

Have you mastered walk, trot and canter yet? Learning to gallop before you've mastered the previous stages is like trying to run before you can sit up on your own!

Gallop is usually done in two-point position, and the horse's head moves very similarly to in walk, so you must give with your hands as he moves his head.

[Wally]

Gallop? Hm!

I have never had to "ask" a horse to gallop, mostly it is allowing them to do so.

You need to know EXACTLY where the brakes are before you attempt this.....unless you have several hundred miles of open space and nerves of steel.

Gallop is indeed a gait where balance and harmony are required. Use the reins to hold you on and you will not be welcome on the horses' back.

Galloping is great fun, but you need a fit horse with maners and a safe place to gallop....and brakes!!

Learn to canter a set of small jumps, the once you can balance over these then go for a "rip snorter!"

[Mossy]

Galloping hmm?
Not to be attempted until you can rising trot without reins and without tipping - a good test of balance that. As well as being very confident in forward seat canter. Required fit horse, good ground, and space!
I have once had to ask Moss to gallop. He was cantering along insisting he kept his handbrake on - a horrible pace desperately trying NOT to keep up with the horse we were out with. I walloped his bum to get the handbrake off. He bucked big time and set off like a rocket. Slow miserable canter to flat gallop is not a recommended transition unless you know your horse. Once told what was what he loved the blast. Usually he sets off ears pricked and happy and as Wally says the acceleration is asked for and allowed.