If you are just learning to ride a horse, or are considering taking up lessons, then you will likely be daunted by the amount of information you have to process.
This is true of any skill when you are first starting, but it is especially disconcerting with horse riding because of the potential dangers involved.
Although the image of horse riding is rather sedate, the reality is rather different. A horse is a living creature with its own impulses,which brings unpredictability. If a horse becomes spooked unexpectedly, it can throw its rider or even kick and trample them.
This can easily result in serious injury or even death, so you must master the basics quickly to stay safe.
Of course, when so many thoughts are swimming around your mind, you may lose track of the basics, such as deciding whether to rent or buy a horse, remembering to stick to easy routines when you are learning, and ensuring you are properly trained before you start riding solo.
Here are three tips for beginner horse riders:
Decide Whether You Are Going to Buy or Hire a Horse
One of the most fundamental decisions you will need to make when learning to ride a horse is whether you will buy or rent the horse you learn on.
This decision will ultimately come down to whether you can afford to make such a large investment upfront when there is no guarantee you are going to enjoy riding.
Therefore, it is sensible to at least have a few lessons on a rented horse before you consider buying your own. However, while renting a horse does make financial sense, remember that building a close bond with your horse is crucial to its obedience and enjoyment.
As a result, you might want to buy your own horse to learn on, to start the bonding process as easily as possible and mold your riding technique around the behavior of your horse.
However, if you are going to buy your own horse, then remember the overheads involved, such as horse transportation. Remember to shop around when investing in equestrian transport.
Remember to Be Trained Up Before Going Out on Your Own
It might sound silly, but you would be surprised how many budding horse riders set out on their own without being trained thoroughly beforehand.
It is a considerable risk both to yourself and others to ride a horse when you have not received comprehensive training, so be patient and stick with your instructor until they think you are ready to head out on your own.
Stick to Easy Routes at First
Learning to ride a horse is daunting – even when you are technically trained and can start riding independently.
For the first few weeks or months of your solo rides, endeavor to stick to easy routes that are unlikely to pose much of a challenge.
This will help you get to grips with horse riding without putting you in too much potential danger.
