Learn to Ride

Having horses as part of my life is such a source of joy. For those of you who have always loved horses, my suggestion is to learn as much about the sport and find a good instructor. Yes it is a sport and with any sport it requires instruction and knowing the rules of safety.

I came across a great little book for would be riders of all ages, although it is called the "Young Riders Handbook , Better Riding" (or should we say the young at heart). It's a very basic book, but well written and it covers so many important safety and horse relating tips like "horses have their days when they are not feeling their best just as we do, but if bad behavior or apparent discomfort persists, then ask for help". This may sound too basic, but you'd be surprised how many people ignore signals horses are sending out to riders (sometimes with dire consequences)

Other topics covered are mounting and dismounting, signs of discontentment or fear in the horse, transitions, the mechanics of different gaits, different styles of riding. There is an excellent explanation of impulsion and collection that any beginning rider will treasure for its illustrations and for its simplicity.

Jo Bird is the author of this fine instructional tool. This book makes a great gift for any newbie rider.

Happy Trails, Kathy
Horsedrivensite.net