One of my favorite (please read with sarcasm, lol) things to do for balance training was riding without stirrups and/or reins. I had a really strict instructor who used to delight in making us work at least ten minutes a lesson without stirrups and monthly without either. However my riding improved monumentally so I can't complain too much.

That must have been very scary when you started out, I really can't imagine just learning to ride and not using stirrups and/or reins. I guess the lesson was well taught though.

LOL. That would cause me some grief. I can hardly walk straight these days much less hold myself up on a horse without reins and/or stirrups. Still it sounds like a good idea for training.

Wow. I've never heard of that before but it sounds like a good idea. I'm sure it really strengthened your legs as well because you would have had to concentrate on squeezing with your knees.

This may sound weird but that is so good for you its amazing. I have to do that kinda of work every day when i ride. at least 10 mins without sturrips. then there is also the trainer taking of my reins. haha that was fun. but yes do that every day and things will be good. also will be good for the horse so you become much less dependant on the horses.

We've never done this either and I think it would be rather hard to get used to, at least to begin with. The more that you did it the easier it would be for you.