Riding a horse
Riding a horse is an opportunity to practice an equestrian sport, a hobby, a passion or just to discover nature. Knowing how to ride a horse well is essential to enjoy this practice safely and with pleasure. Some riders like horse riding for the emotional complicity that is established between man and horse. Others appreciate this activity to decompress, as a therapy. As soon as you prepare your horse, you create a bond with the animal. Once your horse is harnessed, you need to mount and hold on to it the right way. Thus done, you are ready to share a good time together.
Where to ride a horse
Beginner or experienced rider, your safety starts with your enrollment in an equestrian center or owner's stable. The equestrian center has infrastructures (covered riding arena, careers, paddock...) and logistics adapted to the practice of horseback riding. It offers group lessons led by qualified instructors, different activities for all levels, horses and ponies. Thus, you can learn equestrian disciplines, such as dressage, show jumping, Western, Pony-Games or voltige, in a friendly atmosphere. It also organizes advanced riding courses during the school vacations. The owner's stable is for riders who own their own horses or ponies. The equestrian property has the same facilities as an equestrian center, but does not have club horses to practice riding.
With both, you join the FFE (French Equestrian Federation). Your license allows you to take your riding level. Competition enthusiasts can also participate in dressage, show jumping and eventing competitions... You can also opt for half-board. With this principle, you "rent" your favorite club horse or club pony to ride only him, or you share a horse with its owner. If you master the basics of horseback riding, the ride offers you the possibility to enjoy the nature on a horse. So does horseback riding, in addition to spending your vacation on horseback in an exceptional setting.
How to prepare your horse before riding it
Other than having the right horse riding equipment, you need to know how to prepare your horse. Before you get on a horse, knowing how to interact with it is essential. If your riding instructor advises you to arrive at least 30 minutes beforehand, it is to assign your horse to you, to prepare him in a calm manner and to get to know him. The horse is an animal with its own consciousness. All your interactions with him impact the harmony of your relationship. This starts as soon as you pick up a horse from the pasture or approach his stall. Knowing how to approach your horse, tie him and handle him to prepare him before riding, allows you to create a good relationship with your mount and also increase your safety.
Grooming your horse
How to saddle and bridle your horse
Once your horse is bandaged, all that's left is to harness him before riding.