Every rider has that one horse who changes everything about them. -Unknown- I like that quote because it’s so true. My horse Buzz has changed my life forever. He means so much to me. That’s why today I will be talking about my top 4 tips for riding (beginner version)
Bonding: Bonding is huge when working with a lot of animals, especially skittish horses, because most of them have bad experiences with other humans, and it’s hard to trust other people. They will also want to cooperate a little better knowing that they are safe and you won’t hurt them. If somebody asked, “So how do I bond with a horse?” I would say ground work will help a lot like leading, lunging, and desensitization.
Safety: Ways you can be safe while riding would be checking the body language of the horse, such as pinned ears or a swishing tail, will help a bunch to predict any sudden movements or spooking. I recommend not riding alone unless you understand how to ride and you and your horse don’t have any severe problems. When riding in trail groups, make sure to stay at least one horse behind the horse in front of you. This is the most obvious safety.
Techniques: Everybody has different techniques, but when riding you should have a steady trot with you moving with the horse. You should also have a steady lope, which is a little faster than the trot, with you sitting back and moving with the horse and staying very soft with your body. “So how do you move forward?” I personally use both legs gently to squeeze with a cluck with my mouth, and once you start moving, relieving the pressure.
Educational and Therapeutic benefits: The rider has to make a lot of decisions while guiding a 1,000 lbs horse. It will also help with responsibility and dedication to be consistent with riding and grooming. Horses will reflect the emotions of the rider, which can get difficult because if there is a skill you’re trying to master and you start to get frustrated, then your horse will be frustrated as well. And if you get angry, then the horse will too.
So, those are my top four tips! Riding isn’t always easy, but it’s totally worth it. Buzz has taught me so much about trust and being patient, and I know I wouldn’t be the rider I am today without him. I hope these tips help you out if you’re just starting. Just remember to have fun and be kind to your horse. Tune in next time for more about horses, keep riding!