How to Get a Horse to Move Forward Under Saddle (First Ride)
The first steps forward are not about speed—they are about teaching the horse to move only when asked, not when it feels like it.
What We’re Actually Teaching
At this stage, the horse already understands flexing its nose and has had a rider on its back. What it does not understand yet is that leg pressure means to move forward.
The nose should NOT drive the feet. We do not want those connected. If you bend a horse’s nose and it immediately starts moving, that is an unsafe horse because it is not waiting for separate cues.
The horse should wait. Bending the nose is your safety and your control. Forward motion should only come from your leg.
What we are doing here is keeping that safety (nose bent) while introducing a completely separate cue—forward motion from your leg.
Step-by-Step: First Forward Motion
Step 1: Start on the Strong Side
Use the side the horse is more comfortable with. You already know this from lunging. Start where the horse is mentally stronger.
Step 2: Keep the Nose Bent (Do NOT Let It Move the Feet)
Keep the nose bent toward the direction you are working. This is your brake and safety. The horse should NOT move just because the nose is bent.
Step 3: Pick Up the Belly
Use one foot—the same side you are bending toward—and gently pick up the belly. Do not use both feet yet. That can confuse the horse.
Step 4: Ask for ANY Forward Motion
You are not looking for perfection. One step forward is enough. The moment the horse moves, release immediately.
Step 5: Allow Just Enough Freedom
You may need to slightly soften the nose so the horse can move, but do NOT give it completely. Keep control while allowing motion.
Step 6: Stay in Circles
Do not go straight. Keep the horse in circles. Circles keep control and prevent the horse from building speed or getting away from you.
Step 7: Reward and Let Them Think
Reward every step forward. Get on and off if needed. Let the horse process what just happened. This builds confidence.
Step 8: Switch Sides
Once the horse understands one side, repeat everything on the other side. Both sides must be learned equally.
What to Expect
The horse may feel stuck at first. That is normal. It does not yet understand how your leg connects to forward motion.
This lesson may take multiple sessions—sometimes two to three days. Do not rush it. The horse needs time to think.
Safety
Do not let the horse straighten its nose too early. That removes your control and can lead to bucking or bolting.
Stay in controlled circles. Avoid straight lines until the horse understands forward motion.
If the horse becomes confused or frustrated, go back to flexing. Reset to something it understands.
Key Takeaway
The nose and feet must stay separate. Bending the nose is your safety. Forward motion comes from your leg. Teach the horse to wait, then move only when asked.
Recommended Equipment
Saddle: Provides stability and allows proper leg cues.
Saddle Pad: Protects the horse’s back and keeps the saddle positioned correctly.
Bridle & Reins: Used to maintain nose control without accidentally pulling the horse backward.
Riding Helmet: Strongly recommended for safety during first rides.
Riding Crop: Can be used lightly as an extension of the leg if the horse ignores cues, but should not replace proper training.