Learning how to ride a horse is one of the most rewarding experiences in life. It can also be extremely challenging, though. You will need to work hard at it, but with some practice and patience, you will get better as the days pass.
Typically, it is important that you have all your equipment ready before you go out riding. This includes a saddle and bridle for the horse, boots for your feet, and an appropriate helmet for your head.
This article will share how to go about your first horse riding experience and tricks to make it memorable and enjoyable. Let’s dive in.
Horse Riding Tips for Beginners
It can be daunting to think about learning to ride a horse. However, the truth is, it’s not as difficult as it may seem. You will have years of fun riding if you follow these tips and tricks!
Foremost start slowly
The best way to learn how to ride is by starting with a gentle horse. Let your instructor help you pick your new horse and start with some easy rides. Do not expect your first ride to be a big deal, as it may take some time for you to get used to being on the back of a horse again.
Dress for Comfort
This is especially important if you are getting back into riding after many years or have never been on one before. Make sure that all of your clothes are comfortable and allow plenty of room for movement so that there aren’t any restrictions on tight clothing or boots that could cause pain or discomfort when riding around town or in public places.
Learn how to sit on your horse
You must position your body properly to maintain control of the horse. You will want to sit tall with your legs extended outward and your weight balanced evenly between both feet.
Holding onto the reins with one hand, gently pull down on the reins with your other hand. Once you have pulled them down, keep them pulled down throughout your ride, especially when going uphill or downhill. The goal is to keep your hands relaxed and firmly on the reins.
Ride with someone who knows what they are doing (or hire one!)
Many types of horses can be ridden; some are more suited for beginners than others, so make sure you choose one that is right for you! You can also find experienced riders at local stables who will teach you everything from basic handling techniques to riding like a pro.
Get a Good Saddle
A good saddle is essential for riding. You need to get the right fit for your horse and your body, so you will have to try several saddles until you find one that clicks with both.
Once you have found your perfect saddle, try it out on your horse for a few days before investing any money. That way, you can ensure it fits well and feels comfortable for you and your horse.
Know Your Horse’s Limits
Many beginners assume that their horse’s temperament is the same as their own — that they can handle anything — but this is not always true. Horses have different personalities, just like humans do. If you have never ridden before, it is important that you know how your horse responds when things get tense or stressful.
For example, if your horse does not like being touched by strangers or other riders, he might start bucking or rearing up on his hind legs when someone approaches him unexpectedly. If this happens, stay calm and remind yourself that this is only temporary — eventually, he will calm down once he figures out what is happening.
Learn How to Communicate with Your Horse
You will need to be able to communicate with your horse to control them effectively. Try chatting with your horse using hand signals or body language. If you are new, take it slow and use gentle pressure when giving commands, such as “down,” “stop,” or “turn left.”
Take lessons from an experienced rider
You will learn more about how the horse moves and reacts to different commands than you will just by reading a book or watching instructional videos online. A skilled rider can teach you the basics, but they may not know everything there is to know about caring for a horse properly or riding safely on trails.
Horse Riding Safety Tips
You cannot be responsible for your horse’s safety in the ring or on the trail, but you can take steps to keep yourself and your horse safe. Follow these tips to keep both of you out of harm’s way.
Wear Protective Gear
Hitting the ground at high speeds can cause serious injury if you do not protect yourself properly. The best way to avoid this type of injury is by wearing protective gear while riding your horse.
Make sure that you wear a helmet, knee, and elbow pads when you are on your horse to protect you against any injuries that may occur during your ride.
Stay in control
If you have ever ridden a bicycle, you know how important it is to stay in control. The same is also true in horse riding. If you lose control when riding, you will not be able to stop yourself from hitting the ground at high speeds.
Have a plan of action before starting on your ride
Know what you will need to do during your ride, what to avoid, and what kind of equipment you need (like reins). Knowing these things ahead of time will prevent problems later on!
Make sure the saddle fits
Use a saddle that fits your horse properly and has no rips or tears in it that could cause injury to your horse or rider. This includes checking the saddle fitting before each ride to make sure it is in proper working order.
Bottom Line to Riding a Horse
Hopefully, you have learned a lot after reading this guide. However, there is, even more, you can learn from those who have been riding for years. Take the opportunity to talk to others that ride and find out what they recommend you do – and what you should avoid.
They will likely be happy to give you advice, so long as they get something in return or if they are enjoying your company!
