When you are learning to ride a horse, is it possible to learn to ride side saddle also? I have only ever seen it on TV, never seen anyone actually do it in real life.

I'm not sure, it's possible that you might be able to learn it if you're doing dressage. I have seen it done on some spanish horses with ladies wearing big dressed that cover the horse's rump.

However, I tend to think that it owuld all make more sense if it was met riding side saddle, not women.

I don't see why not. Just because we don't wear big dresses doesn't mean the style is history too. I, for one, would love to learn it. I doubt a person could ride fast though.

Buckskin, I am curious as to why you think that. What difference does it make between a man or woman riding side saddle? Historically it was always the woman because of her attire, so why do you think it makes more sense the other way round?

Wouldn't it be because it's men who tend to complain about particular body parts, which are very important to them, getting squashed or pinched as they ride?

I have never ridden side saddle or had any lessons as a child that taught it. Maybe if you ask ahead of time they might be willing to teach it. As far as men and parts-they sure complain don't they:D

There are still some places that teach side-saddle. I read about a lady who does eventing side saddle on a big lug of a morgan/draft cross. She has had to learn the jumping mostly herself, but she found a teacher for the flat and dressage parts.

As for private areas being hurt I would imagine its the same as with a bike. Either a man or a woman can be hurt in that area if they bang it into something hard enough.

I think it would be interesting to watch maybe from an online video, if I find any I will be sure to post it here so we can all see it.

Wouldn't it be because it's men who tend to complain about particular body parts, which are very important to them, getting squashed or pinched as they ride?

Ahhhhhhh, I can't help but laugh here! Yes, I had not considered the anatomy of the male body when considering the benefits of riding side saddle. Thank you for that giggle :D

It is possible to learn side saddle. It is still taught in some of the few remaining finishing schools. It is always possible to learn something if you know where to ask, lol

I have never tried riding side saddle. It always looked kind of uncomfortable to me but I have never heard of anyone complaining about it.

I have ridden side saddle on occasion and found that the only real issue is that it tires the hips. It does however trim the waist down wonderfully-great exercise!