Franconia Ridge Trail - Mt Lafayette, NH

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Horsing Around: A Guide for Beginner Riders

Scientists have not yet identified the so-called horse bug, so be forewarned. It can bite anyone at any age, and is not limited to pre-teen girls who plaster their bedroom walls with horse posters. What begins with a harmless, relaxing ride down a mountain trail may evolve into weekly lessons at the local stable, and then develop into a full-blown desire to own your own horse.
However, it’s not necessary to own your own equine to reap the benefits of the sport. Horseback riding accommodates all ages and skill levels, which makes it a wonderful activity for families. In addition to being a great cardio workout (a moderate 30 minute ride can burn up to 300 calories), riding develops strength, balance, and mental agility. And horsemanship is far more than hopping in the saddle and letting the horse “do its thing”.

The connection between horse and rider, developed over time, is the product of complex communication, resulting in a rider’s increased confidence and self-esteem. To find the perfect ride for your skill level, consider the following:

Riding Styles
There are no hard and fast rules, but generally, most stables will specialize in one “type” of riding: English or Western. It is possible to find both types across the U.S., but broadly speaking, English is more readily found in Eastern sections of the U.S., while Western becomes the dominant style the further west you travel.

Western style riding calls to mind the American cowboy, and incorporates a saddle with a horn (or “pommel”) in front. The clearest example of English style riding the novice may have seen would be show-jumping or perhaps Olympic competition.

Choosing a Stable
Safety is your main concern when choosing a stable, for both rider and horse. Visit the stable you are considering and observe a lesson. Meet with the instructor who will be teaching your lessons and ask what you can expect. If you are uncomfortable with any of the answers, the horses, or any behavior you observe, keep looking.

It’s natural to be nervous before you get comfortable being around a barn or horses (they are, after all, 1500 pound animals with minds of their own!). A good instructor will address your fears and put you at ease. They will teach you how to safely interact with your horse, and proper barn etiquette. Answer the following questions:

  • Do the horses look healthy, well-fed and watered and properly cared for?
  • Is the barn clean and kept in good repair?
  • Are there visibly posted barn “rules” to ensure safety?
  • Are riders required to wear helmets? (the answer should be YES)
  • Do the instructors take the time to answer questions, explain procedures to novices?

    You can also search listings of instructors who have been certified by the America Riding Instructors Association at www.riding-instructor.com.

    What to wear
    Few sports are as elegantly attired as horseback riding, and while it’s tempting to outfit yourself with every fancy accoutrement, there are only a few necessities you need as a beginner to make your ride comfortable, and therefore, more enjoyable. Jeans are perfectly acceptable, (and usually the choice of Western riders) particularly if they have some stretch to them. Or, you can go the English route and purchase breeches, which are form-fitting stretchy pants with patches of suede in the knee and seat for added grip and greater flexibility. Avoid shorts, as your bare leg will quickly become chafed against the leather saddle and stirrups.

    Inexpensive riding boots or field boots can be purchased online or at your local tack store. They are a good investment as they are designed specifically with the right arch and ankle support for riding in mind. However, any shoe with a slight heel that will prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrup is acceptable. Sneakers are not usually a good choice because they are often too chunky to fit in the stirrup properly. Ask your instructor if you are uncertain. Sandals or open-toed shoes of any kind are an absolute no-no.

    Safety Precautions
    It is the law in most states that riders must wear helmets, and most stables will therefore have a variety of ASTM/SEI approved riding helmets available to borrow in your appropriate size. It is a good idea to invest in your own helmet if the idea of borrowing from a “community” collection doesn’t appeal to you, and particularly if you feel you’ll continue with your lessons for an extended period of time. Be sure your helmet is ASTM/SEI approved. Get a complete guide to ASTM/SEI approved models from the United Stated Equestrian Federation at usef.org.

    Beginning lessons
    It’s not unusual to spend a good portion of your first lesson on the ground, which can be frustrating to new riders who want to get on and go. But the basics begin on the ground, and a good instructor will first take you through proper handling: grooming, haltering, leading and tacking up (putting the saddle and bridle on your horse). General barn safety should be covered as well as correct technique for mounting and dismounting.

    Lesson Tips

  • Each lesson should build on skills you learned in a previous lesson.
  • Your instructor should challenge you without intimidating.
  • Make sure your questions are answered to your satisfaction.
  • If you don’t understand a piece of lingo, ask for an explanation.

    Give yourself at least six to eight lessons to learn the most basic principles of horsemanship and get comfortable with your new skills. You may quickly discover you’ve found a new passion to pursue. And only you and your horse can know where that trail will lead.