In classic BDSM, “pony play” is where the Dominant trains his submissive to act like a pony. Of course, in today’s BDSM world of blurred lines, there might not be any Dominance and submission involved. It could just be an exercise in training and execution. But since kinkweekly.com is a kink site, let’s take a look at classic BDSM pony play as a beautiful expression of prime Dominance and submission.
One of the cool things about pony play is that, other than any punishment – either physical or mental — that the Dom/me might mete out to improve his/her pony’s “performance,” there is usually little pain involved. Just as in training real horses, pain is not the best way to get results. One of the great aspects of pony play is that you can simply put yourself in the hands of your Dominant and do as he/she says. If you are the type of submissive that fears displeasing their Master/Mistress, this is the only fear that you can reasonably expect to face. Other than that, it is a piece of cake. And, it is a lot of fun!
The purpose of pony play is to turn the submissive into a well-trained pony. Much like learning specific high protocols, pony training can be just as rigorous. Depending on your Dominant, you will be entering a brave new world of unique discipline. More than likely, the first thing you will be taught are specific gaits. How to “trot,” “cantor,” etc. Much like learning dance steps, the aim is precision and grace. Posture is of prime importance. From those pony-enthusiastic submissives I have interviewed, the part they like best is the praise they earn from their Dom/me when they perfect a particularly difficult stride. Much of the appeal of pony play seems to come from the fact that it is a very measurable D/s activity. By its very nature, it gives power to the “trainer;” the “pony” must listen and learn. It is D/s without any of some of the complex negotiations that can be part and parcel of a power exchange.
If your Master takes it to the next level, where elaborate equipment is used, you will be amazed at the beauty and complexity of the gear that is available. Headgear, costumes, tails and even elaborate carts can be part of pony play at this level. In addition to pony play competitions, I have also seen many trainers show off their ponies, in full dress, at BDSM play parties. (One of our local dungeons has a pony play cart, some pony play gear and a huge room for pony displays.) You might say that high level pony play is the ultimate in cosplay!
If you like attention, then pony play might just be for you. And, if you want to add depth to the Dominance and submission aspects of your relationship, this is a fun way to do it. After all, this is an exercise that combines the best of role-play and Dominance and submission. There are very few downsides to it – other than the expense. (You can’t get pony play gear at the 99 cents store!) Besides, the price of a top-notch pony headdress is not your concern – it is your Dom’s.
From the sub’s point of view, pony play is one of the more enjoyable BDSM activities around. You usually don’t have to worry about a safe word (other than for cramps and such), you don’t have to concern yourself with hard limits, and you don’t even have to bother with negotiations. All you have to do is…neigh!
Here is a fantastic interview Kink Weekly did with pony play expert submissann which will offer even more information on the topic.
By BaadMaster
After a ten year run as head writer for the legendary bondage.com, and an equally long run as the host of the hit internet show “Baadmaster’s Dungeon,” we are pleased to welcome the one and only Baadmaster to KinkWeekly. His thoughts about all things BDSM will now appear regularly on these pages. From the mental aspects of D/s to the nuts and bolts of S&M play, Baadmaster will cover every facet of this ever expanding lifestyle.