Learning Horse Riding Skills For Beginners

By Nancy Gardner


For centuries humans have lived along side horses. They are used in farming, transportation, competition, and hunting. Show jumping and dressage events are also a popular recreational pastime.

If you would like to learn to deal with these animals, its easy. Horse riding Okotoks can be learned through many equestrian schools. These can be expensive but there are different rates for beginners.

For beginners and established riders, safety has to be a major priority. A number of things can go wrong. You can get thrown off or get crushed. Legs should be fully covered. No short pants should be used because if your skin is in constant contact with the saddle, it will create friction. Sturdy boots should be worn because you do not want any bare feet to come in contact with a hoof. That can cause serious injury. Most importantly, a helmet specifically designed for horseback activities must be purchased and worn at all times.

When you get on the horse, sit upright on the saddle. Try to stay within the middle. Sitting too forward or too backward can cause you to be thrown off when the animal lurches forward. Thats a large animal to fall from so you definitely dont want that to happen. Your posture should be upright but not too stiff.

Just breathe. Deep even breaths should keep you calm and relaxed. If you are not comfortable the animal will know. They will sense your emotions and they will not trust you. Tense muscles will just add to your discomfort. So relax and try to flow with the movements.

When you approach your stallion do so confidently. Let him smell you so he can get to know you. Be gentle when dealing with him and let him gain your trust. Like other animals they need to trust you so you can work well together.

One of the difficult things to get used to is the grip on holding the reins. A good firm grip will let you have good control to guide where you want to go. You can hurt and anger the animal by having too tight a grip. When you are out practicing, you need to adjust and readjust depending on the movements. The right grip will make for a smoother ride.

For your own safety, choose a school that can give you lessons. This reduces the risk when qualified teachers are on hand to guide you. Search your area for good schools and then go over to see the place for yourself. Check their facilities and get to know their staff. Check if they take good care of their horses. Since this can be an expensive hobby, invest in a reputable school that can give a high standard of lessons.

Start off slowly. You have to take it one step at a time and gain the confidence. Its dangerous to attempt jumping and galloping and other difficult skills when you are still new. Constant practice will make you progress faster. So just be diligent and listen to the professionals. You will soon be confident enough to move on to the next level and next set of skills.




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