Novice Equestrian 101: (vii) Turning and Circles

To turn a horse, the rider uses the reins and legs. To turn a horse to the left, gently pull back on the left rein, asking the horse to bend his neck to the left. Use your legs at the same time to encourage the horse forwards. Look in the direction you want the horse to go in.

Placing the right leg slightly back whilst turning will encourage the horse to turn in a gentle bend rather than to just spin round. This is particularly important when riding a circle as this helps to keep the horse's body bent around the circle.

Shoot featuring Ammo, a powerful black stallion, and Australian model Rachael Finch, to promote the Melbourne cup.

To turn the horse to the right, the opposite aids are applied, i.e. right rein and left leg moved back slightly, while looking firmly in the right direction.