| There are many things that can make horse riding | | | | of the least experienced horseback rider. |
| more fun and relaxing for you. Following are some | | | | - Always mount the horse from a block or step that |
| pointers that will help you learn safe riding skills and | | | | is high enough to keep from straining you and the |
| be prepared for your first time in the saddle. | | | | horse. |
| - Taking riding lessons from an experienced coach on | | | | - Remember that the reins are the horse's "steering |
| a quiet horse is the safest way to learn horseback | | | | wheel" which means that you are guiding him in the |
| riding. | | | | direction you want to go by gently applying pressure |
| - Be sure the horse is suitable in demeanor and size | | | | on one side or the other. |
| for you-your size and horseback riding skills. | | | | - While you are new to horseback riding, you will do |
| - Never stand behind any horse, or straight in front | | | | best to ride in an open area that doesn't have lots of |
| of them, or run up to them - they spook easily. | | | | trees and fences. The goal in the beginning is to learn |
| - Wear appropriate safety gear: boots, heavy denim | | | | about balance, not avoiding branches. |
| jeans, and an approved riding helmet. | | | | - Keep your horse under control, and always watch |
| - Volunteer at a nearby stable if possible. (Most | | | | out for anything that might spook him. |
| would be thrilled to have a volunteer.) You can get | | | | - Don't go too fast until you are very comfortable |
| familiar with horses and their body language. They | | | | horse riding. Just like anything else, the faster you go, |
| also might let you ride one! | | | | the bigger the crash if there is an accident. |
| - Make sure you learn about taking care of the | | | | - Always ride with a friend and a cell phone or radio. |
| horse, grooming them, and also handling their blankets | | | | - Leave a map of your route and when you'll be back |
| and saddles properly. If you get a chance to feed | | | | so family will know how to find you if something |
| the horse, it is even better for bonding. | | | | goes wrong. |
| - Be careful to always use calm, reassuring | | | | Most importantly, enjoy yourself! You will soon fall in |
| movements around horses so that you don't spook | | | | love with horses and want to be around one all the |
| them. | | | | time. |
| - When riding with a group, ride at the same speed | | | | |