Comments on: How to Ride a Horse

on 11/22/2005 Don't be scared. Get back on if you fall off. Believe me, it's not the worst thing in the world. Just get back on and try again.

on 11/22/2005 Some say that you should start with English, others say Western. I think it depends on what you want to do.

on 11/22/2005 You have to show them who is boss, but not by using strength (because the horse will win).

If the horse doesn't go where you want it to, all you have to do is say "No," and use the outside leg and the inside rein to let it know it has done wrong. This always works for me.

on 11/22/2005 You want to build a good relationship with your horse. You can do that by doing simple things like grooming and feeding your horse.

on 11/22/2005 If you live near the sea or in a very humid place, your tack has to be cleaned constantly, especially your saddle or your leather will go moldy. "Dubbin" doesn't really work but use a glycerin based soap or saddle oil and that'll do the trick.

on 11/22/2005 Look at the horses who live with their trainer. See how they react to strangers. Are they happy, calm? Is there evidence of cribbing, wind sucking, or weaving (all stress related)?

A horse speaks volumes about a trainer.

on 11/22/2005 It is better to start out by riding bareback because you learn to control the horse with your movements, not equipment. It is also helpful if you get a round pen available to you for circle riding to better aquaint yourself with the horse. (visa versa)

on 11/22/2005 If you get nervous while riding a horse, try slowing down and talking to the horse. Tell the horse a joke or tell him why you are nervous. It really helps you get to know yourself and the horse.

on 11/22/2005 Horses are the most wonderful creatures on earth. If you enjoy riding them and being a part of their lives, it's a good idea to make them part of yours. Riding a horse is a partnership - not a person controlling the horse and vice versa. Enjoy the ride.

on 11/22/2005 First, take the time to talk to your horse as you would a child. If it has done something wrong, then take your horse and make it do whatever it did wrong over again so it understands what it did wrong. Then praise your horse for doing the right thing.

on 11/22/2005 When dismounting, always be sure to take BOTH feet out of the stirrups first. That way, if your horse suddenly gets frightened, you will not be dragged in the saddle.

on 11/22/2005 Before you go for your first lesson go and see how things look. Use your best judgment. If things look clean (including the horses!) it's probably safe. You might also want to go watch a lesson to how things look.

on 11/22/2005 Your horse is a person too, and getting to know its personality is very important. Don't push him to do something he feels uncomfortable with, but help him become comfortable by being patient and understanding about his problem. We have problems, too.

on 11/22/2005 If you're looking for an instructor to teach your child, make sure the instructor is experienced with teaching children. There is a huge difference between teaching a child and teaching an adult.

on 11/22/2005 The main reason anyone does horse riding (what should be the main reason) is to have fun! If you find yourself not enjoying it, stop, ask why and try to make it better. Make sure you can think of at least 10 things that you have done that you've enjoyed.