Tips On Improving Your Horse Riding Skills

By Nancy Gardner


As a work animal, horses have been invaluable companions for humans. They have such a wide range of uses from transportation to farming and working to recreational sports.

There are many schools that you can sign up with for lessons. Qualified staff members will teach you the basics of horse riding Okotoks. It is not just a sport for the rich. Now average members can join in on this pastime.

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 are on the saddle, do not be tense. Try to sit comfortably in the middle. You can easily fall off if you are not in the correct position. Be mindful of your posture. The way we sit affects not only your comfort but the animals. Dont sit too far back or too close forward. Find a nice middle ground and move with the animal.

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 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.

Learn the right tension to place on the reins. Too much will cause discomfort. Too little grip and you dont have control. It is hard to guide if you are not in control. Adjust your tension depending on the horses movements. You have to work together to have a smooth ride.

Choose from the reputable schools within your city or as close to you as possible. Start off with the basic lessons and progress to the more advanced stuff. The facilities should be clean and comfortable and also good for the animals. Find a teacher that can work well with you and give you the right amount of guidance to learn new skills.

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.




About the Author:



No comments :

Post a Comment