Author: Patty
Whether you have bought your own horse, are considering purchasing one, or are taking riding lessons, there are many things you need to take into consideration.
I will highlight some points you should think about as a beginning rider.
The first thing to decide is what type of riding style you want to learn. There are basically 2 styles, Western and English.
When you see show jumping on television, they are riding English style, on a small English saddle. If you like cowboy movies, then you have seen Western style riding,
which has a larger saddle that has a horn.
English riding can lead to showing your horse at very prestigious shows, with much class and sophistication. This is where you'll find your show jumping, your hunt classes,
steeplechase and dressage. This is a very precise discipline and absolutely beautiful to watch. You may even go on to join the Olympic Riding Team, if you are good enough.
For those of you who enjoy rodeos, calf roping, barrel racing and active, wild spoting events, Western riding is more your cup of , well, whatever you drink a cup of. Here
you will find bluejeans, spurs and large belt buckles. This is where you will also find many backyard horse and pony owners. Many families who have horses as a family pet
like to go trail riding, and a western saddle is what you'll want.
After deciding what style of riding you want to learn, the next step is picking out a good instructor. Network around riding stables and you will find out first hand who's
worth their weight in horsefeed. The last thing you want is an instructor who passes on their bad habits. You can look through the yellow pages, but word of mouth is definitely
the way to go here. Take your time, watch someone who's riding style you like and ask them who their mentor is.
If you are going to buy your horse, consider buying a horse that is already well schooled. It is much more difficult to learn to ride on a horse that has no formal schooling.
It is only in my opinion, (please don't send me a billion emails on this), that a horse between 6-10 years of age are settled down enough for a beginning rider. I also prefer
geldings over mares, only because if gelded at the right age, they mellow out well. Take the breed into thought as you consider your purchase. While a Mustang may go over jumps
as well as a Morgan, he would probably make a better barrell racer.
Do you know how to approach a horse to prevent it from becoming nervous? Do you have any fears you need to put aside before you even begin to mount? There are so many things to
know before you get started. Especially if you are a first time horse owner, or rider. If you are contemplating purchasing a horse for your children, take the time to learn all about them.
Do not misunderstand me, it was a great learning experience for both my daughter and I. We got to spend a lot of quality time together, learned a lot, and grew to respect
anyone who is involved in horseback riding.
If you would like more information, please visit Horse Riding Made Easy They have tons of insight that can help every beginning rider.
About the author:
The author is a lifelong horse owner, fanatic, and enthusiast.
Visit PattysPaddock , dedicated to the backyard horse enthusiast.