How To Be Fully Prepared For Horseback Riding

Are you looking forward to riding a horse soon? Horseback riding is a surreal experience that is coveted by many. And to make the experience memorable, there are a few must-do preparations you have to make before you meet your horse-riding instructor. And as long as you have the right gear, and know how to bridle and saddle your horse, then preparing to ride a horse should be easy.

from wearing tight pants, boots, and helmets to knowing how to approach a horse and strapping yourself ready for horseback riding, there are a number of tricks to master before being ready. And since this is something you don’t do every day, chances are you will not be in the best possible shape to ride.

Therefore, we have compiled a list of the essential preparation to make for you to be fully prepared for horseback riding. Read on to find out.

Get The Right Riding Gear

Riding gear such as helmets and long boots are an essential component in horseback riding. And you cannot afford to wear the wrong clothing because that would be dangerous. Equestrian experts assert that most horse-related accidents can be prevented by getting the riding gear right. And as the lead stable instructor at Ayr Equestrian Ltd. explains, baggy clothing of any caliber cannot do with horses. Horseback riding needs tight-fitting clothes that won’t flap too much to stick in your riding boots or get you caught in your tack. That said, here are basic clothing guidelines to prepare for before going horseback riding:

• If you don’t have a tight-fitting polo shirt and a jodhpur, purchase those as they are the most comfortable horseback riding t-shirts and pants, respectively. Besides, jeans are recommended as comfortable pants for horseback riding. So, you can show up with a pair.
• Remember to wear long pants to protect your legs from injury as a result of rubbing against the saddle as you ride.
  Loose clothing is a NO. That’s because it may get caught in the saddle or get attached to any other thing along the trail and cause injury.
• The right footwear to use would be either hiking boots, riding boots, winter boots, or any boots that cover your ankles. In the U.K, for instance, most riders prefer using the riding boors because they offer sufficient protection for your legs. Plus, they protect your feet from being stepped on by a horse.
• Put on a helmet as it is a crucial horseback riding equipment. Most stables offer helmets to those taking riding lessons because it protects you any time you get hit or when your horse takes off.

Get To Grasp The Safety Rules

horse safety is paramount when it comes to horseback riding. And the number one tip to bear in mind to always stay alert. Most horse-related accidents can be prevented by staying vigilant around horses. Keeping vigilance will prevent you from walking right in front of a galloping horse. Besides, being alert can prevent you from sneaking behind a horse as you walk looking sideways. All these safety tips can go a long way in preventing injuries. Among others, let’s list other important horse safety measures.

• Be mindful of how you hold your lead rope. The lead rope is always attached to the halter of the horse, and it is used to guide the horse anytime you are not riding it. And while we are still on the subject of the lead rope, some people tend to tie the rope around the waist. This can be catastrophic. The ideal thing to do is hold it in your palms all the time. And the safety rule of thumb is to never wrap the lead rope around your body parts. That’s because if for any reason the horse was to take off, it could lead to serious injury.
• Another important safety tip to prepare for is to understand all the danger zones on a horse. Horses have blind spots located directly in front and behind them. And you should never sneak up on them from either side. Instead, approach your horse from an angle that ensures they see you and don’t harm you out of fright.

Learn The Common Equestrian Terminologies

Like any discipline or specialization, there are plenty of terms associated with horses. Your riding instructor would cover some of them for you, but it can be helpful to take time and learn some beforehand to be familiar. Besides, if you get versed with horse terminologies, you will easily communicate and ask questions to your instructor.

Engage In Cardio And Physical Exercise In Advance

Most new riders often express surprise when they find out that riding a horse is akin to a thorough workout. That’s why it is helpful that you get in good physical shape in the period leading to your first horseback riding experience.

There is quite a lot that can go through your mind as you anticipate your first horseback riding lesson. But with proper preparation, you will find it a fun and relaxing experience that will live up to your expectations. From getting the right clothing to mastering the techniques to approach a horse, these are essential preparation steps you have to fulfill before meeting your riding instructor.