About Horse Riding

If you love horses, you probably want to learn to ride. Before gathering all the necessary equipment to engage in horse riding, you should do an assessment of your suitability for riding.  Any concerns you have about you or your child’s suitability should be brought up with the instructor.

Horse Riding is for All Ages

Horse riding can be a good recreational activity for young people.  If a child is skilled and confident enough to ride a bike without training wheels, she is a good candidate to learn to ride horses.  The mental prerequisites for learning to ride a horse include the ability to focus on a task for an extended period.  A prospective student should be able to listen to her teacher while focusing on the horse and should have the resiliency to get back on the horse if she falls off.

First Steps in Riding a Horse

To start horseback riding, you will need a saddle, a bridle and a halter.  A Western-style saddle is often best for beginners because it has a horn with a vertical back.  A bridle with bits and reins command the attention of your horse.  Halters are used by horse riders to lead their horse.  A blanket is an optional accessory when riding.  To lead your horse out of its gate, bring your horse parallel to the gate.  While taking the reins in one hand, unlatch the gate with the other.  Keep hold of the gate and push it out as you guide your horse through the gate opening.

Horses are Sometimes Better than Cars

Horseback riding allows you to visit locations that are inaccessible by car and that are too long to reach by foot.  Horses are also better to take to wildlife preserves than a car because they do not disturb the ecosystem much.