Riding Off & Bumping

While most people immediately associate the sport of polo to be played on a grass field, there are actually multiple variations of the sport, all with their unique qualities and distinctions. 

What Exactly Is Riding Off?

Riding off, or "bumping," is when a player uses their pony to gently and safely push an opponent away from the ball. Picture two players racing side-by-side, each aiming for the ball. Riding off allows one player to use a controlled shoulder-to-shoulder bump to gain an advantage. According to the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA), bumps should always be shoulder-to-shoulder, at similar speeds and angles, ensuring safety and fairness.

How to Ride Off Properly

Align and Match Speeds

Approach your opponent by aligning your horse parallel to theirs. Matching your pony’s speed with your opponent is essential. Riding off isn’t about force; it’s about position. A smooth, matched-speed bump ensures neither pony is startled, and players remain safe.

Gentle Angles

Always approach at a shallow angle—less than 45 degrees is best. Think of it like merging lanes smoothly rather than abruptly changing direction. The gentle angle helps maintain balance and avoids sudden shocks that could risk injury.

Balance and Control

Sit deep in your saddle with your heels down. Stay upright and centred, letting your horse’s momentum create the bump. Avoid using elbows or leaning excessively; this ensures both your balance and sportsmanship.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Incorrect Angles

Approaching your opponent too sharply can result in fouls or injuries. Remember, gentle angles mean safer bumps.

Speed Mismatches

If your pony is going significantly faster or slower than your opponent’s, it creates an unsafe situation. Practise controlling your horse’s speed for smoother bumps.

Using Arms and Elbows

Polo is about your pony’s strength, not yours. Keep your hands steady and your elbows in. Let your horse do the work.

Practising Riding Off at Your Polo Academy

Like any skill in polo, riding off improves significantly with practice. At our academy, we focus on teaching riding off in controlled, safe environments, allowing players to gain confidence without worry.

Remember, riding off isn’t aggressive—it's strategic. Done right, it protects players, ponies, and enhances team coordination. Practise regularly, ride respectfully, and soon riding off will feel natural and enjoyable.

Master riding off, and you’ll become a safer, smarter, and more effective polo player—one gentle bump at a time.