We've all seen people ride horses.It is possible to enjoy a gentle ambling ride in real life even though they are on television.The smooth ride of gatted horses make them good for beginners.The specific kind of horse you want to ride is dependent on your research.You're ready to communicate and ride once you've positioned yourself correctly.You'll be riding easily as well with any luck.
Step 1: Pick the horse you want to ride.
There are a lot of different types of horses.American Saddlebred, Missouri Fox Trotter, Paso Fino, and Tennessee Walker are just a few of the most popular.
Step 2: Take some lessons.
Once you've decided what kind of horse you want to ride, it's time to find someone that can teach you.Taking lessons from an instructor can help you become more comfortable with your horse, safer on the trails, and a better rider in general.Don't think that lessons only teach show tricks.
Step 3: If you want to practice riding, find a horse.
At the stables, look for a horse that is gentle, already trained to carry a rider, and has been used for trails.Pick a horse you like and you won't regret it.A happy horse will not try to throw its rider or impatiently mouth the bit.The experience of riding a horse should be enjoyable.
Step 4: You should get a saddle and bridle.
A saddle with a high swell on the front is required for some gaited horses.The saddle can be uncomfortable for a horse.The withers are on the ridge between the horse's shoulder blades.Put the saddle slightly forward over the withers and let it slip back until it stops.The saddle should be adjusted if the horse shows signs of being uncomfortable.
Step 5: Look for a well-fitting headstall and bit.
Pick the most comfortable gear for your horse.It's not a good idea to choose a bit based on breed or gait.Ask the previous owners what they used, or get advice from a professional.Try a few different ones.Chances are you won't need to worry about the headstall, bit, or saddle if you're just riding at a stable.The horse will be used in the equipment.
Step 6: Mount up!
Stand next to your horse or on your mounting block and hold the reins in your left hand.Put your left foot in the stirrup and swing your right leg over the horse.Lower yourself into the saddle.If someone is giving you a leg-up, place your left foot into the stirrup and hold the front of the saddle.Take a swing at your leg and then gently lower yourself into the saddle.
Step 7: Allow your legs to hang naturally.
You don't want to hold your horse with your legs.This will cause confusion to your horse.Your legs should touch the horse's sides while your knees are bent.Make sure your stirrups are adjusted if you continue to grip the sides of the horse with your legs.
Step 8: With your shoulders, hips, and heels aligned, sit straight up.
It will be easier for your horse to carry you if you evenly distribute your weight.You should be able to imagine a straight line from your ear to your hip.Your horse will find it hard to carry you if you are out of alignment.You may notice that your horse is making you uncomfortable.
Step 9: Take care of your back.
Don't arch your spine, your back should be straight.If you sit too far forward, your horse will tire you.Tension can be caused by an arched spine.Your horse will become tense when you're tense.This can cause it to run off and make you tired.
Step 10: Relax from time to time.
This may seem strange, but remember that your horse will pick up on any tension or anxiety.Your horse's joints and muscles will become more flexible when you're relaxed.
Step 11: Don't pull, but hold the reins firmly.
Your horse knows that you're there.Don't pull tight on the reins.The horse needs space in order to move its head.To communicate through the reins, use gentle hands.There is some slack in the reins.The horse will pick up the slight sound in the reins.The horse will become desensitized if you pull on it constantly.
Step 12: You can guide the horse with your body.
To suggest a direction to your horse, use your Pelvic muscles.Your horse will be encouraged to move in those directions if you drive your pelvis forward or backward.It will take time and practice to develop these cues.This method of instruction can be created by working with your horse.
Step 13: You should talk to your horse.
Simple verbal signals can be used to back up physical signals.You can say "whoa" or "ho" to encourage your horse to move.Consistently giving verbal directions is what you should do.Positive encouragement and support should be given to your horse.You can say it's a good horse or rub its neck.