The hands can ask the horse to stop, help control the horse's speed, or ask the horse to turn. Back To Top Riders may have heavy hands, passive hands, or controlled hands. Heavy hands typically disturb the horse. This is usually the result of an unsteady seat or the fear that the horse will get out of control. Passive hands are light but ineffective.
Passive hands belong to riders with a good balanced seat but little knowledge about riding a horse.
Controlled hands are quiet but effective. These riders combine the use of hands and legs. Controlled hands get the desired results without upsetting the horse. Legs The rider's legs communicate motion to the horse. Slight shifts in the rider's weight help the horse in going forward, backing, or sidepassing.