Riding styles, as well as apparel and tack, were developed out of specific historical requirements that were then modified to suit contemporary sporting needs.
Riders communicate to their horses with aids, or cues.
After learning to mount, dismount, and attain proper body position, the novice rider must learn coordinate the aids, an important step in becoming proficient. To make the transition from the halt to the walk, for example, the rider squeezes his or her lower legs against the horse's sides at the girth to generate forward impetus while simultaneously relaxing the hands to allow the horse to begin moving. Saddle-horse breeds and types originally provided mounts for Southern plantation owners. Thin, flat saddles interfere as little as possible with Saddle horses' rapid and elevated leg movements, and double bridles, with both snaffle and curb bits, afford give maximum control. Cattle roping and other ranch chores required cowboys to have secure yet maneuverable seats.