Are you considering taking a first-time horseback riding class? Since you’re going to mount a reasonably large, live animal, it makes sense to feel a little anxious. This is because when you start riding horses, it’s crucial to have guidance from an experienced or qualified professional. They can offer helpful riding advice for novices in addition to the support and assurance you require to feel secure and at ease. Ultimately, all experts were once beginners. They will be able to offer you individualized input and understand what you are going through. Going on a beginner’s horseback riding vacation is one of the greatest (and most pleasurable) methods to learn the fundamentals because one class will not even come close to teaching you how to ride properly. You’ll have plenty of time to improve your riding abilities as well as make strong connections with your horse and gain a fresh perspective on a foreign land or your own.
Riding Equipment
Despite your preference for Western or English riding, it should go without saying that you should never show up in a miniskirt, shorts, or beach sandals. While riding a horse, long pants and appropriate footwear are required, so visiting equestrian shops is a must when you want to prepare yourself before riding because saddles, gloves, jackets, and even horse supplies can be found there. Any closed-toed shoes could work, but to prevent your feet from slipping between the stirrups, it would be best if you had a pair of low-heeled boots that are no higher than 1-1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm). Wearing scarves, handbags, or any other accessories that can tangle with the saddle, bushes, or trees is not advised. Finally, for your own protection, it is always advised to wear a helmet.
Proper Greet
Remember that your horse is a living being and not a machine that you can command. The horse may also be uncomfortable when a new person comes and may even be afraid. Therefore, when you first meet your horse at the ranch, say ‘‘hello’’ to him to build a positive bond from the start. When you greet your horse, reach out and give him the back of your hand to sniff, then wait for him to make contact with his nose. Basic gesture, known as the “horseman’s handshake,” is probably the most famous one. It basically means requesting permission to saddle him.
Mounting
The horse can sense your anxiety and may start to feel apprehensive as well. The horses are usually trained to be mounted on the left side, so before starting, you should also consider getting some training. If your guide isn’t holding your horse’s head while you mount, ask someone to do it so he doesn’t move. With as much fluidity as possible, raise your left foot into the stirrup, grasp both reins with your left hand, and raise yourself with your right leg. Though you can place your hands on his back for balance, avoid using your arms to force the horse to fall.
Straight Sitting
Perhaps you were so enthralled with the Kentucky Derby that you imagined yourself having to bend down to ride as quickly as possible, just like the professional jockeys on television. Remember, though, that a weekend away at the races is all about unwinding—not winning the Grand National.
Sitting up straight and tall, letting your backdrop, holding the reins lightly, placing a foot in each stirrup, and maintaining your balance are the greatest ways to maintain control over your horse. This will prevent him from feeling like he’s carrying a bigger weight.
Handling the Reins
Whichever style (Western or English) you’re learning may affect how you ride. When riding in English, each rein is held in one hand, however, when riding in Western, both reins are held in one hand. Regardless of the option you select, keep your arms relaxed and never pull too hard to avoid injuring your horse. Lifting the reins over shoulder level is rarely a smart idea; instead, your arms should generally make right angles at the elbow.
Use the left rein to steer your horse to the left by making a gesture like opening a door with it. Simply use the right rein in the same manner to steer to the right. Pull back slowly and press the heels down to come to a stop.
Saddle Horn
You will probably discover a saddle horn in your horse equipment that you can grip onto when you are riding. That being said, you shouldn’t rely on the saddle horn to maintain your equilibrium. Try extending your legs, changing your posture, or giving the reins a softer grip if you feel unsteady.
Holding the horn will become a habit for you, making it difficult to maintain your balance in the event of an unforeseen circumstance and increasing your risk of falling. Because of this, you should never grow accustomed to using the saddle horn even when you’re merely strolling.
Look Where You Are Going
While riding, avoid keeping your eyes fixed on your horse. Even if he is stunning, you have to be focused on the path at all times. You wouldn’t want to be in a car with a driver like that, therefore staring at your horse would be like focusing on the back of your car and neglecting the road ahead.
It’s been said that you should view the future through the eyes of a horse. However, maintaining a straight posture and keeping an eye on the path should be sufficient to ensure a safe trail riding experience.
Stay Tuned
Remain composed and align your body with your horse’s rhythm. Observe his gait and allow him to gently rock you back and forth without resisting. An excessive amount of tension might make you bounce, lose your balance, and hurt your back.
Give the horse a break. Naturally, this does not mean that you can do as he pleases; rather, you can act as a leader rather than a tyrant.
Make sure your horse is motionless before getting off. Furthermore, it is preferable if you have someone hold the horse for you. Step off the stirrups with both feet out, bend forward, and swing your right leg over the horse.
Try to do it as smoothly as possible, just as you did when mounting. After an amazing adventure, thank your horse, give him some water, and enjoy the sensation of being back on solid ground. Likely, you won’t have much more time to get back in the saddle!
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