As the stands fill, fans can help out by staying quiet and still during each ride. Noise and fluttering programs can distract a horse. Each ride takes 5 to 7 minutes.
Applause is welcome after the rider has saluted and the horse has left the arena.
Move around the arena between rides you'll see differences from new angles. Keep your eyes on the rider. You should see little movement. The cues to the horse are subtle a shift of seat or leg, wiggling fingers to send vibrations down to the reins. It should never look like work for either horse or rider.