One would assume horseback riding had been around for as long as horses themselves, but history tells us otherwise. According to the history books, horseback riding got its start in the 1300s. During that time, horses were mainly used to carry heavy equipment from place to place and transport people as well. Fastforward a few centuries and you have the exciting sport and pasttime it’s become today. horse back riding Fort Worth Texas has become big business, with many companies opening their doors to beginners looking to learn the ropes, so to speak. But if you’re looking to learn a bit on your own before your first lesson, read on for a few horseback riding tips for the novice.
* Lead the horse outdoors to mount him, refraining from mounting him in closed in areas with a low roof or door.
* As you approach the horse, come in at an angle towards his shoulder, saying their name in a calm voice. Approaching them in this manner will alert them to your presence without startling them.
* As you approach the animal, offer the back of your hand as a handshake for the horse to sniff as an introduction.
* Ask someone to hold your horse’s head when you mount it the first couple of times.
* When you ride the horse, be sure your body is loose, moving your body with the horse. If you’re tense, it will cause you to bounce more.
* Make sure you ALWAYS wear a helmet. Jeans and boots with a heel are recommended.
* Do NOT wrap the left over slack of the lead rope around your hand, however tempting it is or cool it may look. Also, keep your hands as still as possible when handling the reigns.
* Direct your horse where you want them to go. Horses can pick up on your focus, knowing instinctively where your eyes are leading them.
* Point your toes toward the sky and have your heels down when you’re riding. Additionally, keep your back ramrod straight and do not slouch.
* It’s tempting, while you’re on the horse, to hold your breath, but remind yourself to breath.
* While nature is gorgeous as you’re riding around, don’t forget you always need to pay constant attention to the horse and what is coming up in your trail.
* Do not hold the reigns too tight or you’ll hurt your horse’s mouth.
* Hire a qualified Horse Back Riding Fort Worth instructor.
