On the bit - how would you describe the feeling?

I've tried to explain to non-riders that truly having a horse on the bit is one of the best feelings in the world. When I explain what it feels like, they think I sound ridiculous. So I wanted to see what other riders feel when their horse is on the bit. To me, it feels like a recycling ball of energy right in front of my core that expands out to the palms of my hands. What does it feel like to you??

When I am driving my fiancee's V8 ute. There is this one part of the road I drive down to get to the stable where I ride, where there is a tiny slope, about 5 degrees. As I accelerate up that hill, I get the same feeling as when riding on the bit. I think it is a combination of the lightness of going upwards, combined with the power from the V8 engine :)

To me it's riding one big fluid unit rather than riding 4 legs, a body, a neck and head.

Puck,

Very well said!

Thanks! I wasn't sure it made any sense!

To me contact is a two way communication...a we converse...i ask, he answers...he asks, I answer...

Think of a seeing-eye dog harness, there needs to be a physical connection between man & dog, that is why the leash is not hanging loose, the same with the rein, there must be enough feel on it to communicate. It is not meant to stop the horse or to restrain the horse...

AA, also a very nicely put post!

(here's a joke; How does the blind parachutist know when to pull the rip cord?

The leash goes slack!)

A horse on the bit should have a light contact from the bit to the rider's hands, without ducking behind or leaning on the rein. It should be in front of the leg, you give an aid and the horse gives an immediate and positive response. Your seat feels like it is controlling all speed and direction, you should be able to hold your core for a stride and have the horse steady, shift your weight and have the horse turn.

Amazing. Haha like your part of the horse, like you and your horse could conqour anything in the world. Haha
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Everything just falls into place, can't describe the feeling. I'd say Puck got it right.