In the context of "belly riding," riders often use a or spur guard.

When the horse reacts to the pressure, it reflexively contracts its abdominal muscles and lifts its back.

High-quality bands, like those from Dover Saddlery , are designed to stay in place under the saddle without shifting during movement. Safety and Technique

Many owners use "belly scratches" as a reward or a way to relax the horse during grooming. Key Equipment: The Belly Band

A horse enjoying the stretch may move its muzzle or lean into the scratch, but if they pin their ears or shift away, reduce the pressure immediately.

These are wide, elasticated bands that wrap around the horse's barrel to protect the sensitive skin of the belly from rubs or sores caused by the rider's spurs or legs.

A "belly lift" is a common physical therapy and bonding exercise used by riders and trainers to engage a horse’s core. It involves applying gentle upward pressure or a "tickle" along the horse’s midline—specifically the sternum and abdominal area.

Always stand near the horse's shoulder or neck while performing belly lifts to avoid being kicked.

For those looking for structured training programs to improve their own core strength alongside their horse, resources like Dressage Rider Training offer specific workouts to synchronize rider and horse abdominal engagement.