Tips for beginners starting horseback riding

key initial tips for beginners starting horseback riding:

• Make a Plan and Trust Your Guide: Before riding, plan your lesson and trust the instructor or guide to lead you safely through the experience.

• Dress Appropriately: Wear a certified helmet, long pants to protect your legs, and boots with a small heel to prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrup

• Greet Your Horse: Approach calmly and let the horse smell your hand-a gentle introduction that builds trust between you and the horse.

• Mount with Confidence: Hold the reins in your left hand, place your left foot in the stirrup, and swing your right leg over smoothly. Ease down gently to avoid startling the horse or hurting its back.

• Maintain Good Posture and Balance: Sit tall with your ear, shoulder, hip, and heel aligned. Keep your heels down, knees slightly bent, and hands relaxed. A straight, calm posture helps maintain balance and clear communication with the horse

• Be Gentle with the Reins: Hold the reins softly without pulling. Horses’ mouths are sensitive, so subtle, light cues are most effective.

• Be Mindful of Your Feet: Keep your feet positioned correctly in the stirrups, with the ball of your foot resting on the stirrup and heels down to maintain stability

• Look Forward: Focus your gaze ahead on the trail, not down at the horse. This helps with balance and situational awareness

• Flow with the Horse’s Movement: Instead of resisting, move gently with the horse’s rhythm. Relax your body and sway slightly to match the horse’s motion, which improves comfort and reduces the risk of falling

• Take It Slow: Start riding at a walk to build confidence and balance. Avoid rushing into faster gaits like trotting or cantering until you feel ready

• Use Your Seat and Legs for Steering: Steering is primarily done through your core and legs, with reins as a last resort. Think of “closing the door” on the side you want to turn to guide your horse effectively.

These foundational tips help beginners develop a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable riding experience while building a positive relationship with their horse.