English Horseback Riding

Although the name refers to a very specific country, English riding is a form of horseback riding that is seen all over the world. There are many different variations of English riding, but you’ll find that there are certain factors that unify it into a style that is immediately recognizable from Western riding, which is another style of horseback riding that is often seen. When you are looking at English riding, you’ll find that some things will immediately let you know what you are looking at.

When you are looking at English riding, you’ll find that an English saddle will be used, no matter what the horse is doing. The English saddle is quite flat, without the deep seat that is common to the Western saddle and without a saddle horn. This kind of saddle is designed to allow the horse the maximum amount of movement, no matter what task is in front of it, and when you realize that a horse that is being put through its paces in English riding will be doing things as varied as racing or classical dressage, you will see that that demands a great deal of movement in deed.

English riding consists of many different styles, but virtually all of the require that both hands be held on the reins. This allows more control over the horse, and it also changes the focus of this style from the horse to the rider. When you are looking at someone who is riding English as opposed to Western style, you’ll also notice that during a trot, they will tend to rise and sit with the rhythm of each stride, something that is called posting, while in Western riding, the rider will stay in the saddle.

For many people, English riding is a discipline that exemplifies the grace and power that a horse can display, and this is evident in many of the events that use this style. For instance, dressage, which is a form of training and competition, is always performed using an English saddle; dressage is a form that maximizes the horse’s potential as a riding animal, and it is aimed towards enhancing the horse’s precision when it comes to the control of the rider. Show jumping, where a horse is timed as it is taken over a number of obstacles, is another sport that uses English riding, as is polo, which involves a high degree of movement and exacting timing from both animal and rider.

While there is some discussion that is ever ongoing about whether one horse breed or another is preferred for Western or English style, the truth of the matter is that any horse can be trained to either style. Most people prefer horses trained for specific events be trained exclusively in one or the other, and it does make sense. The training in style will affect the way that the horse responds to stimulus and this can strongly affect the horse’s ability to perform as necessary.

When you are looking for information on styles of riding, think about what suits you best, and make sure that you get all of the information that you need!

Author: Susanne Malloy

Susanne Malloy is an avid equestrian and an editor for http://www.EnglishSaddleShop.com, your complete resource for new and used English saddles, riding apparel, and tack.

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Horses are majestic animals to observe. Weighing anywhere between 850 and 2000 pounds, horses are both powerful and substantial animals. Horses have been applauded for their utility over the years, but mostly, it is their grace and effortless gait that has gained them the admiration of everyone. Riding a horse is an uplifting experience that allows the rider the opportunity to feel the muscular elegance of a horse at work. The numerous breeds of horses have produced a myriad of different appearances and gaits among horses, so riding a horse can vary greatly, depending on the breed of horse one rides.

In terms of breeds, riding a horse, such as a Tennessee Walking Horse, contrasts entirely with the experience of riding a Thoroughbred. Tennessee Walking Horses are trained to have a smooth, deliberate gait, so riding a walking horse is a more tranquil and steady experience. In opposition, Thoroughbreds are famous for their speed and their agility in show jumping, and thus their gait is more natural, yet noticeable for the rider. Although riding a horse can deviate considerably, the experience of riding a horse is always magnificent and enthralling for all riders.

To begin riding a horse, one should submit to a few simple guidelines that will assist them in riding a horse both safely and enjoyably. Horses may be easily alarmed, and therefore, one should greet a horse first from the front to avoid the chance of startling the horse. Most horses revel in the grooming process, if it is performed correctly. One should always brush in the direction of hair growth on a horse when grooming them before preparing to ride them. Horses delight in rewards as well, whether it is a pat, a polo or an apple, and one can assuredly make a steadfast friend if you remember this. If you honour these simple guidelines, riding a horse will transpire both effortlessly and splendidly.

After one has completely groomed and tacked up their horse, they are now ready to ride a horse. One should mount a horse smoothly and gently, especially if it is their first horseback riding experience. Now, they are ready to embark on the compelling journey of riding a horse. As the horse walks, one can discern the gait patterns of their horse, and they can thus sync rhythmically with the muscular shifting of these impressive animals. The true athleticism of a horse manifests itself in the canter and gallop of a horse, yet beginners may find that when riding a horse, the trot is veritably a satisfying enough venture.

Riding a horse not only unites riders with the splendor of these grand animals, but it also unifies riders with nature as well. Riding a horse is a distinct opportunity that provides riders with a glimpse at the beauty of nature and the animal world, and thus riding a horse can be extremely therapeutic and relaxing. Moreover, with all the legwork riding a horse requires, riding can certainly qualify as a muscle strengthening exercise. Horseback riding can thus be an activity to gratify both the adventurers and those seeking relaxation

Please click http://horseriding-for-all.blogspot.com for more reading

Author: Sean Prenderville

Sean Prenderville is a retired Accountant and Horse Riding Instructor. Since my retirement I have devoted all of my spare time to horses and horse riding. I have over forty years experience of riding and teaching. For more information please visit http://www.horseriding-for-all.blogspot.com

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My life is blessed. I have owned horses and been horse riding since I was a young girl. I can’t imagine life without them. They make me laugh, they give me love, and after a hard day at work, there is not a greater stress relief than saddling up and going for a ride. Together we share a deep bond.

While horses are second nature to me, many people are mystified by horses and horse riding. They are big animals that look intimating, and the idea of getting on a horse’s back is frightening. To many, horseback riding is intimidating, or worse, some are fearful of horses. It is not your fault. You are simply reacting to a lifetime of what you have seen and been told.

The very fundamental basis to mastering horse riding techniques starts on the ground long before you even think about getting on a horse… It begins with a good eduction about the horses mind and how they think.

We all like to humanize our pets, and it is no different with horses. We tend to transfer our ways of reasoning and our emotions to the horses. This is the first great mistake many new horse riders do, and it is the worst thing a horseman can do.

Horses are not human. They do not think, see, smell, hear, or reason like a human. This is the most important concept for you to master; For your safety on and off the ground, and for the horse’s safety.

Horse are herd animals. This means that they are genetically hard-wired to live, think and react as a pack animal. Nature has programed them to react, rather than to act. Ever seen a TV show of a herd of zebras spooked at a predator? It is no different with a horse. But this should not deter you learning to horse ride. Rather it gives you an understanding that they are different and you must "think like a horse" to master horse riding techniques. After that, the learning curve comes easy.

Author: MaryAnn Eastman

Horse riding can be fun and fulfilling for anybody, but if you don’t start with a good foundation, you just start with bad technique and habits.

That is why most people quit riding horses after a few tries. They had bad experiences with the powerful beasts that caused them to fall, be frightened or worse injured. But don’t let that scare you off. Falls and injuries can be avoided, and riding can be the best experience of your life when you have the best horse riding techniques under your belt.

So… if there is a spark of interest, or a huge fantasy to learn horse Horse Riding Secrets, then start with a good guide to teach you horse riding basics. Why hire a professional trainer before you even know if horseback riding is something you want to pursue? Read about more Horse Riding Techniques first and learn the basics. Then decide if horse back riding is something you want to pursue.

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Get Riding!

The first step to owning a horse is, of course, to learn how to ride. So I began taking classes. Learning to ride begins with a walk. After a while, you graduate into trotting, and then cantering, and finally, you can gallop! 

Learning To Ride Horses

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Horseback Riding

Learning to ride. It is easy to notice that local equestrian Allison Richards loves horses. She speaks the language of horsemanship with confidence as I watched her guide two young riders during a recent lesson. With the years of knowledge under her belt, … Along with riding skills, Richards teaches good horsemanship, which includes stable management – grooming, basic veterinary horse care, stall cleaning and proper nutrition. 

Unlock The Secrets Of Horse Riding

When you start lessons, the first thing that will affect you will be a tinge of fear when you climb on the horse’s back. You have to get used to the height from a horse’s back. You cannot learn to ride as long as you have any fear.

Age No Barrier To Learning To Ride A Horse

A Darwen riding school that runs an adult beginner’s class says that they doesn’t see age as a barrier to learning to ride a horse. 

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Banish the fear of horse riding accidents and put the fun back into riding. 

Almost every good rider has an accident at some point during her riding career. While some riders see accidents as a part of the sport and get right back in the saddle, so to speak, other riders lose their confidence and even experience gripping fear. Some riders are so afraid that they ask themselves whether the time and money they spend on their hobby is worth it after all!

Here’s the deal: unless you enjoy riding, then you shouldn’t be doing it. If every time you get on a horse you experience a pounding heart, dry mouth, and crushing anxiety, then I would ask you why you continue to torture yourself in this way. Especially considering that riding is an expensive, time-consuming hobby.

However, many riders continue to torture themselves in just this way. Why? Because they remember what it was like, before the unfortunate incident, to love to ride. And they want to experience that feeling again.

If you are still going out to the barn and trying to get on your horse despite having huge fears, my guess is that you want to return to the time when you loved horses. The good news is, there’s no reason why you can’t. If you take it slow and put yourself in the right situation, you can love riding again.

The first step is to figure out what is getting in the way of your enjoyment. For many people, they just can’t relax on their horse. They relive their bad situation, and this makes them tense. Knowing that you have a hard time relaxing is the first step in learning how to relax on horseback. Once you learn to relax, you’ll enjoy riding.

Of course, you can’t relax unless you are confident and comfortable. Being confident and comfortable are the cornerstones of relaxation. So how do you get confident and comfortable? By riding the right horse, and by taking lessons from the right instructor. That’s right, I said instructor. If you are so fearful of horses that you want to throw up every time you get in the saddle, it’s too much to ask that you conquer this on your own.

A good instructor is patient, kind, never demeans you, and understands that you’ve had a bad experience and need to move slowly. Since there are many riders who have faced fear, there are also many riders who help their students overcome it. To find the right instructor, ask others who have had similar problems for a recommendation. An instructor who is right for you should be downright enthusiastic about helping you get over your issues.

You’ll also need the right horse. A calm, confident, and bombproof schoolhorse is the best choice if you’ve been frightened. Even if your riding skills are good, you need to remember that the goal here isn’t to improve your riding skills. The goal is to ride without fear. The right horse will give you good experiences, and the more good experiences you have, the more your fear will recede. If you really love riding, face your fears but take it slowly. With a good instructor and the right horse you’ll be happily back in the saddle in no time.

Equine Garage Sale
Horse Tack and Items for Sale, horses and horse trailers for sale.

By Ron Petracek Published: 5/16/2007

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Different Types Of Saddles

There are many different styles of horse riding saddles out there. And, within each type, there are variations. What you will find is that there is a REASON saddles differ from each other in the way they are structured. It is not simply a matter of style or fashion. It is a matter of utility. What are the horse and rider trying to accomplish? Are they trying to jump a fence or rope a calf? Saddles have evolved over time to reflect the various things we do with horses.

There are four BASIC kinds of horse riding saddles that you will most likely see in a riding stable. Be familiar with their differences and the reason they are different. Lets start with a Dressage saddle: These saddles have a very straight cut, long flap in front which is designed to accommodate the longer leg position that a dressage rider utilizes in their discipline. The pommel and the cantle are a bit higher than in some other saddles which leaves a deep seat for the rider to sit and communicate with their horse using their natural aids. Some dressage saddles have more or less padding in this front flap depending on the riders preference in maintaining proper leg position.

By contrast consider the Hunt Seat saddle. This saddle is designed for jumping. Riders use a shorter stirrup length when they are jumping and for this reason, these saddles have a forward-cut flap that has padded knee rolls. The rider, therefore, sits slightly further back than in a Dressage saddle. These things help position the rider in an advantageous way to jump a fence. The pommel and cantle are lower than a Dressage saddle which serves to reduce any interference as the rider takes a two-point position, or half-seat.

The Cutback saddle is another English type saddle, like the other two. And, just so you know, you may hear this saddle referred to as a Lane Fox or a Park Saddle or a Flat Saddle. But they all refer to the same saddle. The Cutback saddle is known for and actually named for the cut back area in the pommel located at the withers. Horses with higher leg action, such as the Saddlebreds, the Tennessee Walkers, the National Show Horse, Morgans and Arabians, will utilize this saddle to accommodate the greater motion of the front legs and shoulders as well as to provide for the often higher withers associated with these breeds. The seat is longer and flatter than either the Dressage or Hunt Seat saddle. Because saddle seat riders also ride with a longer stirrup than hunters, the flap on the cutback is also straight and long.

Finally, we come to the Western saddle. This is a different animal from the three previously discussed horse riding saddles. The evolution of Western saddles has an interesting history that goes back to the Moors and Spaniards. But, without going into too much detail, suffice it to say that it was a war saddle, designed to accommodate a warrior on horseback and his various needs. The saddle was brought to this country and transitioned from a military saddle into one used to accommodate the needs of a working cowboy. Thus, the most distinctive difference is the presence of a horn which was used by cowboys to tie or dally a cow as they are maintaining the herd. And, because these saddles had to be strong enough to handle another animal being tied to the horn, western saddles are bigger, stronger and more substantial than English saddles. Also, unlike the English saddles the stirrups are not detachable, so the stirrups, where you put your feet, are bulkier making it is unlikely that your foot would get hung or stuck.

Although I will not go into it in this article, Western saddles differ among themselves based on what they are used for. For example, Roping saddles have thicker horns for securing a rope. Cutting saddles have a deeper seat and wider swells allowing the rider to endure sharp stops and turns. Barrel racing saddles are more lightweight, with wide swells letting the horse perform fast sprints easier. And there are many more!

This article is simply an overview of the 4 basic kinds of horse riding saddles that you will see in most riding stables. There are plenty more, based on other specialties, like Side Saddle. This should, however, give you enough information to get started learning the 4 basic saddles. If you have the opportunity, try out the various types and you will start getting a feel for what you may prefer.

Author: Lisa Blackstone

For more information, go to http://www.SaddleEquestrianGuide.com or http://www.EquestrianTackGuide.com

Lisa B. Blackstone has been involved in the Arabian horse business all of her life. She operated a family owned Arabian horse breeding and training stable called Onyx Arabians for many years. She went back to law school in the early-90s and is now a practicing attorney in the Atlanta, Georgia area. She is an original founder of the Equine Section of the Georgia Bar. Recently, Lisa launched two websites designed to teach the novice rider about horses and horsemanship. You can visit them at http://www.HorseAndRiderClub.com and http://www.AmericanHorseAssociation.com She continues to ride and to judge Arabian horse shows in the United States and abroad.

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How To Choose The Right Equestrian Wear

Riding hats and helmets come in different designs and the design is often chosen dependent on the discipline. More often than not the design of the hat that riders choose will be down to personal preference, comfort and fit. It is important that the hat you choose is new and conforms to current safety standards BSEN1384, EN1384 or PAS015.

The correct leg wear can contribute to an enjoyable ride. Wearing uncomfortable leg wear that pinches or allows the riders leg to move too much can hinder the rider when performing aids and affect their safety when on the horse. While riding skills are not going to be improved with the use of suitable clothing, improper clothing can hinder the progression of the rider. Jodhpurs and breeches are fitted to the leg, have durable seat and knee patches with many giving extra security in these places too. They are stretchy and the material used keeps the rider from overheating. Typically the quality, fit and additional features are improved as the price increases.

Riding boots are important for more than one reason. The sole and heal of the boot will be made with safety in mind. It should be made of a hard wearing material with a fine grip tread and heel to prevent the foot from slipping right through the stirrup. Boots can be ankle height, these are called Jodhpur boots and long riding boots cover the rider’s calf finishing just below the riders knee. Comfort is vital as a lot of control when riding your horse will come from your legs and feet.

Riding jackets come in all shape and size and for many different purposes. Many riders will have a number of different jackets, for cold wet conditions, for warmer breezier weathers and for showing or competing. Any jacket the rider wears should be comfortable, suitable, leave the rider with plenty of movement through their arms and across their shoulders and should not flap or have parts that could get caught making them unsafe in any way. Chaps are a widespread piece of horse riding wear that many riders choose to use. They are brilliant as they fit over yard boots or Jodhpur boots and on top of jodhpurs giving the rider the additional grip and comfort that Long boots would provide but whilst giving them the peace of mind that they are not damaging or ruining their more expensive Long boots. They come in two forms, full length which fit hip to ankle and half chaps which fit the lower half of the rider’s leg. They can be worn on the yard for additional warmth and available in a variety of materials. Gaiters are closer fitting chaps and are commonly made from leather.

Author: Tammy Patterson

Tammy is a passionate equestrian rider who tries to promote the correct ways to be when working with horses. Tammy works part time for anythingequine.co.uk who specialises in equestrian wear and in particular equestrian jodhpurs in the UK.

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Choosing A Horse Bridle

This informative article discusses the types and variations of bridles and bits and also their applications in the equestrian world.

Hackamore – This is a bitless bridle which is effective in controlling the horse via pressure points on the horses head and face. Reins are attached to the nose band/nose piece. This form of large leather bridle is often a good choice for horses with sensitive mouths and helps maintain good control of the horse. However, most shows don’t allow the use of Hackamore bridles.

Pelham – For use with a single pelhon bit, this English type bridle allows the use of either a snaffle or curb rein.

Double – As the name suggests, this bridle uses 2 bits; a Bradon and a Weymouth. Each has their own set of reins.
Due to the potential severity of this bridle and the skill it can require for use it is more commonly used in high levels of riding.

Western – As you would expect these bridles are usually worn in ‘western’ scenarios. They don’t have a noseband and are frequently seen without a brow band. The missing brow band is often replaced with a single ear design that wraps around one ear for security, helping to keep the bridle on.

Gag – This bridle is for use with ‘Gag’ bits. The cheek pieces are rounded and pass through both top and bottom holes of the bit attaching directly to the reins. Pressure on the reins slides the bit up or down the cheek pieces putting pressure on the corners of the horse’s mouth. This bridle if not used with caution can have a severe action. A common bit used in Polo, Rodeo and Show Jumping.

Halter – Commonly used by trail riders, for endurance riding and on ranches. This bridle has a ‘halter’ design and quick release cheek pieces. This is a brilliant safety feature for when wanting to tie up horses and for relieving the horse of the bit without having to remove the whole bridle.

Snaffle – One of the most commonly used bridles in English Riding. This bridle uses one bit, usually the Snaffle bit and one set of reins. It can be used with and other bits that use single reins.

There are many variations of bridles and they can be very specific for their purpose. Some bridles provide pressures on areas of the horse’s head, e.g. poll or lips, which assist in controlling the horse.

Parts of the Bridle – from top to bottom

Headpiece – A strip of leather that sits just behind the horses ears, the straps at either end are, on either side, the cheek pieces. The strip of leather on the horses off side is the throat lash; on the nearside is the throat lash attachment.

Brow band – Additional security to prevent the cheek pieces slipping back. Noseband attachment and headpiece run through either end of the brow band. Decorative jewellery or colourful ribbon can be sewn on to brow bands for decoration, often matching the rider.

Cheek pieces – Either side of the horses face, are found on either end of the headpiece. They are used to attach the bit to the bridle.

Noseband – Attached through the ends of the brow band and follows the same line over the horses head as the headpiece. Used to keep the mouth / jaws closed, or for attaching certain martingales.

Throat lash – Fitted as a strap under the horse’s throat for additional security. Should not be fitted tightly.
Reins – Attach to the bit, below the cheek pieces attachments. They are the rider’s form of contact to the horses head. They can be made of rubber, plain leather, braided or laced leather or non-slip material useful for when riding in wet conditions.

There are other attachments or accessories that can be worn in conjunction with these basics; these include Bit Guards, Curb Straps, Lip Straps and Blinkers. All of which will be added if and when they are needed. There are also a range of pony show bridles.

Fitting and Safety

Horses should never be tied up using the reins of their bridle. If they were to pull back severe injury to the horses head and jaw can occur.

A correctly fitted bridle is essential for the horses comfort and the riders’ control. A correctly fitting bridle will help when trying to develop a good working relationship between horse and rider.

By: Felicity Lightbody

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Felicity is a part-time columnist, writing intermittent overviews in the UK for anythingequine.co.uk who sell equestrian bridles and horse tack equipment. Anything Equine specialise in saddles and horse rugs in the UK.

What Are Useful Horse Tack Supplies?

Bridles are one of the most essential horse tack items that you, as a rider, should have. These are used to communicate with your horse. 

Buying Guide to Bridles

Double bridles are used for English Riding in the dressage discipline and use two bits in the mouth at once, a snaffle bit and a curb bit. The two bits allow the rider to have very precise control of the horse.

Horse Tack Supplies Must Have

Taking care of a horse is not as easy as one may think. Your horse’s health, shelter, food and horse tack supplies are all very important things to consider, with regard to the care of these giant animals. 

How Horse Bits & Bridles Work

In horse riding, horse bits and bridles work on the horses head and mouth to control the direction of the horse. Learn more about how horse bits work with tips from a horse trainer in this free horse care video. 

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How To Buy Different Types Of Saddles

A saddle is one of the first pieces of equipment most people buy after they acquire a horse. It is a major investment; selecting and purchasing require much deliberation and knowledge. The life-time of nearly all saddles is several times that of a horse, so take great care when selecting a saddle.

The first step in selecting a saddle is to decide which style of riding you like better. For many riders this may not be important. The decision probably was made long before, and the horse bought specially for that style. For a beginner, however, selecting the riding style may present more of a dilemma. Each style has its advantages and disadvantages.

Western or stock saddles have a propensity for being big and heavy. They are difficult, if not impossible, for youngsters to handle. Nevertheless, they offer a great deal of security for a beginner. The thickness of the saddle and the amount of leather under the leg, knee and seat keep apart the horse from the rider.

Western saddles are possibly more adaptable, strong and resilient than other styles. They are available in a wide range of designs and prices. Hunt-jump saddles are ordinarily quite light and effortlessly managed. Here, too, an extensive selection of designs and prices is on hand. This sort of saddle allows the rider, in most situations, to ride nearer to the horse, to feel the horse and to communicate more readily with seat and legs. As a rule, these saddles call for additional instruction of the rider in acquiring a confident seat than with standard saddles.

The saddles that are used to ride and showcase gaited or park horses, such as the Lane Fox saddle, are kind of restricted in use. They have lots of the benefits of the hunt-jump saddles they are lightweight and allow ease of communication with the horse. Even so, they place the rider so far at the back of the withers that the only way for the rider to be in equilibrium with the horse is to have the horse well collected and working off its quarters. This style of saddle provides minimum security for the rider; any rider should become skilled at riding such a saddle decently.

Dressage saddles are designed for accommodating women’s ankle-length skirts. Although they are used for other modes of riding, they are not preferable. The design of this saddle offers the rider with utmost ease of communication with the horse and holds the rider in perfect balance and form, whether the horse is highly collected or gently extended, all within the rather narrow limits of tradition.

There are several saddles intended for very precise roles aside from those formerly brought up. These consist of side-saddle, trick saddle and special show or display saddle. These saddles are exceedingly specific in their design. Using them for anything other than their designated use should be discouraged. Safety, comfort of the rider and ability to maintain soundness of the horse must be considered before beauty or the desire for a unique design.

By: Azlan

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Ricky Hamilton is a researcher and writer working for www.saddleteam.com, where you can get all the best horse saddles at the best prices. Visit us for all your saddle needs.

Horse Saddles: How to choose the right one

Whatever the type of saddle you prefer to use, it is crucial to choose the one that fits your horse properly. Ill-fitting saddles can result to both health and training problems.

Types Of English Saddles

While there are many other styles of saddle available that can be used for English riding, these are the most common. Take your time and choose a saddle that not only fits your discipline, but also is comfortable and fits your horse.  

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Types Of Horse Girths

Used to make sure the saddle is correctly attached to the horses back, the girth sits around 10 cm behind the horses’ front legs. There are a number of types of girth and styles online in the Anything Equine store. They are used for many different disciplines, as described below.

Balding Girths
Made from leather and cut into 3 strips.

Atherstone Girths
Shaped leather with a stronger strip of leather along the centre.

Dressage Girths
Also called a ‘Lonsdale’ girth. Not as long as other girths and used primarily with dressage saddles. The long billets on dressage saddles allow this girth to be fitted without the buckles interfering with the rider’s leg aids. They can be made from leather, strong cotton or padded cotton and in Balding or Atherstone styles.

Unshaped Girths
Can be made from padded cotton or flat heavy cotton, both with webbing reinforcements, or they can also be made from leather.

Over girths
Mostly used when racing. Overgirths are used in addition to a regular girth to provide additional saddle security and are worn around the belly of the horse and across the seat of the saddle.

Stud Guards / Jumping Girths
These are commonly used when show jumping or eventing, they have a large protective pad that sits under the horse’s belly, preventing studs or horse shoes from striking the horse’s underside as they tuck their front legs up and under when jumping.

Tips
When choosing a girth it is essential that the correct size is chosen, for the horses comfort and for the rider’s safety. The girth should spread even pressure across the belly of the horse. The measurement should be taken using a flexible measuring tape from the middle hole of one of the billets on your saddle, under the horse’s belly in the position where the girth will sit, then to the middle hole of a billet on the opposite side.

By: Felicity Lightbody

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Felicity is a freelance columnist, writing occassional columns in the UK on behalf of anythingequine.co.uk who sell horse girths and saddlery products. Anything Equine specialise in breeches and bridles in the UK.

Beautiful Chestnut Beginner Dressage Horse

Custom Fitted Schleese saddle available for purchase with horse (Great condition, includes pad, stirrups, leathers and proChoice Girth.

How do you find a dressage girth to fit your horse?? 

My horse is a 48 in my saddle, but i just got a dressage saddle and I want to buy the right girth. What size dressage girth should i get if my horse is a 48? 

Wintec elastic girth with CAIR 

I recently bought this girth and after only 30mins schooling, it had rubbed my mares sides raw! Wetherbeeta whom are the uk supplier are not willing. … Horse Riding and Training Discuss any topics realted to horse riding and horse training.

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Beginner Horse Riding Lesson

Regardless of their age, new riding students feel more comfortable having an idea of how the first lesson will begin and what might be expected. This article gets students acquainted with the concepts of the first riding lesson. Read "Preparing for Your First Lesson" first to understand the items required for riding.

When their first riding lesson is nearly at hand, students often wonder what type of horse they will get and what they will be expected to accomplish. It’s understandable that some students have anxiety as they wonder what to expect.

Most students worry particularly about their intended mount; so, keep in mind that at respected riding schools, school horses are often characterized into groups based on their appropriateness for riding levels. Beginner riders will often be assigned the aged, semi-retired, easygoing, forgiving lesson horse whose only vice may be his pokiness. Knowing that a beginner will have little control over her hands or feet and may flop around in the saddle, the ride school will provide a safe horse for her level.

When you arrive, the school will likely ask to check your helmet to ensure that it is ASTM/SEI certified for horseback riding. If it is not or it is not a horseback riding helmet, you will need to borrow one from the ride school.

As you move about the premises, be courteous to fellow horseman. That means, no running or sudden movements near horses being handled or ridden. Leave your dog at home as barking can upset some horses. Turn your cell phone to vibrate or off. Understand that some horses are sensitive to flash photography, so before taking any pictures, ask the instructor. For parents bringing other children, there is to be no running around the horses at any time. Also note that some horses spook at strollers, so alert the barn if you intend to bring one.

Most likely, the instructor will accompany the student into the barn to get the mount. Younger children need to be reminded that they must act like a guest in someone’s house and don’t touch anything unless they ask first and to use their indoor voices. There is to be no running or yelling in a barn. Following are some guidelines to remember on your first visit to the barn:

Entering the Stall

Do not enter the stall if the horse has his tail to you. You are to enter the stall only when the horse is facing you. Do not enter the stall until the instructor tells you to do so.

Leading Your Horse from the Stall

Most facilities have the beginner horse tacked and ready to go prior to the lesson. So, you should be able to lead the horse from his stall. Before leading the horse into the aisle of the barn, call "heads up" so you don’t come crashing into someone else going down the aisle.

For small children leading horses, some facilities will ask that you keep the reins over the horse’s neck. This is because small children may let go of the horse, and if they do, there’s less of a chance the horse will step on the reins.

For older children and beginner adults, you may be allowed to take the reins over the horse’s head and lead him with the reins held in both handsright hand under the chin and rest of the reins going to the left hand at your left side. Check with the facility as to how they prefer the horses led.

Leading Your Horse to the Arena

Hold your horse directly under his chin in your right hand. By holding further back on the reins, the horse can turn and bite you. (Not that he would, but for safety’s sake, we’ll hold him the safest way.) Hold your arm straight out to him so that both you and he have your own separate paths, and he won’t accidentally step on you.

Entering the Arena

When you enter the arena, you typically lead your horse into the center of the arena and turn and face him toward the in-gate. Horses should face the in-gate so they aren’t surprised by other horses coming in and can see them approaching or other things going on around the arena entrance.

Mounting

Don’t get on the horse until your instructor tells you to and helps you. The first thing you and your instructor must do is check the equipment to ensure it is on correctly and safe for you and the horse. The instructor will check the saddle pad to make sure it is protecting the horse’s back. She will also check the girth to make sure it is tight enough that the saddle doesn’t slip when you mount. She will also check the girth again when you are mounted, especially if you’re using a very thick saddle pad. The instructor will check the bridle to make sure all the leather parts are in the right spot and secured.

Your instructor may give you a leg up or have you mount from a mounting block. Either way, you will be mounting the horse on his left side. You will take the reins in your left hand, grab a lock of main in the hand. Using your right hand to hold the left stirrup, place your left foot into the left stirrup. Then take hold of the cantle (the back of the saddle) with your right hand and swing your right leg over to the right side without hitting his hindquarters with your foot. Try not to come flopping down on his back and sit softly and quietly. (It’s hard to do your first few times, but try!)

Your instructor will then adjust your stirrups.

The Lesson

For your first lesson, your horse may be placed on a longe (pronounced "lunge") line. The line is handled by your instructor and keeps your horse on a circle around her so she can control where he goes and talk to you.

Your instructor will go over the basics of the proper seat:

Sittinglike you’re standing next to the horse with bent knees, not like you’re sitting in a chair all the way back on your butt. Sit on your seat bones.
Straight backby lifting from the base of your sternum and allowing your shoulders to stay back. Not roaching the base of your back and not forcing your back to arch unnaturally.

Leg beneath younot pushed out in front. Your heel should fall nearly under the bend in your knee. Your calf is slightly behind the girth and in contact with the horse’s side.
Heelflexed down, allowing your weight to drop down into your heel. The stirrup iron should be on the ball of your foot.

Handsholding the reins. Hold your hands like fists with thumbs facing up. The reins will run either: through the bottom of your fist, out the top under your thumb or in through the ring and pinkie fingers and out through the top under your thumb. Hands should be over the horse’s withers (his shoulder) and angled to the angle of the shoulder (in between thumbs up and angled slightly toward each other.) Hands are held slightly apart from each other and are to make a straight line through the reins to the bit in the horse’s mouth.

Headup and eyes looking ahead.

In your first lesson, you will be taught how to make the horse walk. You will also be taught how to make him turn and stop. You may even get to trot in your first lesson! And, if you trot, your instructor may start teaching you how to post (if riding english). At the end, you’ll be taught to dismount by taking both feet out of your stirrups and swinging your right leg around his back and sliding down the left side. Or your instructor may teach you to "kick free" in dismounting by keeping your left foot in the stirrup until you swing your right leg over, then kicking free your left foot of the stirrup then jumping down to the left side. Regardless of how you are taught to dismount, you will always do so facing the horse and off the same side that you mounted from–the left.

That’s all you will likely do in your first lesson. It may not sound like a lot, but you will be spending a bit of time just getting used to balancing on a horse, maintaining and correcting your position, keeping with his rhythm and basically getting a feel for where your hands, feet and legs are. It will be a lot to think about, and you’ll probably be tired afterward. Good luck with your first ride and happy trails!

Still not sure whether you are ready? Visit our exciting equine forum and ask any further questions you may have. We have experienced trainers and veterinarians as members.

We will leave the light on and the barn door open for you! Stop by and say hello at HorseChitChat.com, just click the forum link or visit our equine resource box below.

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By Ron Petracek Published: 9/7/2007

Technorati Tags: beginner horse riding, horse riding lesson, Horse Riding Tips, ideas for horse riding lessons

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