Friday, 21 August 2015

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.

The one thing all riders need to focus on is safety. This is especially important when you are just learning. Helmets should always be used. Boots and jeans should be worn. If boots are not available then rubber shoes can be used. No open toe foot wear is allowed. Shorts, skirts and the like should also be avoided. You can have friction burns from the constant rubbing against the saddle.

Posture while on the saddle is also important. You should be upright but not ramrod straight. Stiffness will cause discomfort. Positioning on the saddle is another thing to learn. A good spot is right in the middle. Sitting too high or too close to the back is uncomfortable and could cause you to fall.

Be relaxed. When a person is scared or tries something new, there is a tendency that they are anxious and unknowingly hold their breath and tense up. Do not convey your nervousness. They are intuitive animals and can sense your tension and emotions. Breathe evenly. Holding your breath can give you a back ache and muscle tension aches. Relax your legs also. Dont grip the horse too tightly because that will cause muscle aches at the end of your session and the horse may misinterpret that as a sign to keep moving or move faster.

When you first meet the beast, dont go running up and scaring it. That can be very frightening. Approach in a calm demeanor. Give him time to get to know you and your smell. Gain their trust so that you can have a good relationship.

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.

Learning equestrian skills takes time. You cant expect to be good at something when you are still a beginner. Start off slowly and as you gain confidence, you will be more ready to learn harder skills. Learn how to approach and handle the stallion while on the ground then work your way up to sitting then finally you can walk and eventually learn to canter and gallop.




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