How to ride a horse in 6 easy steps

Every aspect of horseback riding needs careful attention. Therefore, one needs to have good foundation skills that will enhance their development. You can only learn to ride a horse with an instructor or a coach who can offer you advice and encouragement that will help to keep you comfortable and safe. 

First-time riders usually find their horseback riding experience to be quite nerve-racking. This activity requires a particular level of expertise and patience. After learning the ropes, a rider finds horse riding to be rejuvenating, relaxing and therapeutic. What riders appreciate more is the symbiotic and dynamic relationship they get to form just by working with the horses. To learn how to ride a horse and to perfect the skills of horse riding one requires a lot of practice and instruction.

Dress appropriately for horseback riding. It is recommended for a rider to wear long pants and boots during horseback riding. You also need to have a good-fitting helmet with you.

1) Have your horse outfitted 

Your horse also requires a special outfit. A saddle is fitted to the horse and its rider. Some recommend for riders to begin their learning using the English saddle which is smaller and doesn’t have a horn. Later on, they can switch to a western saddle if they wish to. Your horse will also need girth, bridle, bit and reins.

2) Know your horse

Horses spook easy, and it is advisable to avoid hugging and running up your horse on your first ride. You can touch your horse’s body all the time when walking for it to sense your presence. Try to avoid making fast movements or loud noises. Walk quietly with your hands down when approaching your horse and try to be calm when around him. 

3) Tack up your partner

Tacking up is getting your horse ready for the ride. It is essential that you know your gear and how you can use it. Your coach will explain every piece of tack and the way it is mounted on a saddle, bridle, and girth.

4) Mount your horse

Generally, horses are mounted from their left side. This is done by placing your left foot in the stirrup, pulling yourself up and then swinging your right foot over. Your coach may help you during your first time. 

5) Learn the riding postures and practice

The hunter posture is when you sit upright in the saddle and slightly lean forward. This posture will help you go over jumps. Hold the reign in both hands down by the saddle pad on both sides of the saddle’s front. With the western posture, you will sit straight up while holding the reins in one hand up by the hip bone. When turning, move the one hand right or left. Finally, the saddle seat posture is where you sit straight, lean back a little to get off the horse’s shoulders. It is a style done with trotting breeds. Your hands are held up high close to the chest.

6) Learn to balance on your horse

This takes muscle memory and requires a lot of practice. You are required to build muscle memory in your core and have your seat hold you steady. Vigorous practice is required here. 

There are more steps you can learn for you to perfect your riding skills. These include actual riding, learning to turn and stop your horse, regaining control when lost and finally advancing to a trot. Your coach can help you get accustomed to the movements and motions of your horse. This way you can gain confidence and be able to give directions to your horse as you ride.