Learning to Ride a Horse
If you would like to learn how to ride a horse, the first step is to find an instructor. Once you've found a good riding school and scheduled your first lesson, you'll be on your way. Don't go crazy with buying equipment at first… you need to learn if horseback riding is something you truly enjoy before you go spending a lot. Some comfortable children's horse riding clothing will be just fine.
If you get to your lesson a little early, you'll get to take a few minutes to meet the horse you will be riding. If you don't have a riding helmet, you should be able to choose one the instructor has available. You may get introduced to the saddle and bridle, and the proper way to use them. You will then learn how to mount your horse properly on the left, or near, side. The horse's right side is also known as the off side.
Once you are securely mounted with your bottom deep into the saddle, your instructor will show you some basics on directing your horse. Your hands should remain low over the horse's shoulders, and your back should be kept straight, but relaxed. Pulling on one rein will turn the horse in that direction. Pulling gently back on the reins tells the horse to back up. A little nudge in the ribs with your heels tells the horse to move forward.
Your instructor will probably keep your lessons in a small arena so he or she can watch your progress and give you tips as you ride. They will tell you when to turn your horse, when to walk, trot, or canter. Cantering will probably be taught in a later lesson. You will also be taught how to dismount, and possibly how to unsaddle and care for the horse.
Your first lesson probably won't be too exciting, but these basics are important. You will be learning how to control your horse and how to handle yourself as a rider. You will learn to guide your horse through communicating with your feet, legs and the reins. You'll learn how to tell your horse what to do without hurting their mouth with the bit. For several lessons, you will learn more of these skills and keep practicing until you don't need to think about how to let your horse know what you want to do.
Part of learning to ride a horse is learning how to care for one. Saddling and bridling a horse takes some practice and confidence. Grooming is important, not only for your horse's appearance, but so you know how to remove a stone in their hoof or any other problem that may come up while riding. Haltering and leading a horse is part of learning how to work with horses as well.
Your instructor may assign you homework like learning the parts of a horse, saddle and bridle at the beginning. This is important so you understand the equipment you will be working with. Before you know it, you'll be confident in the saddle and will be riding well. Learning to ride a horse can be a lot of fun, but be prepared to do your share of work as well.
Check out our range of children's equestrian clothes inside.
This is an original news article © The Kids Window
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