Horseback Riding

Monday, September 21, 2015

Check Out This Wonderful Reunion

Monday, March 31, 2014

Horseback Riding From The Comfort Of Your Computer Screen

2014 AQHA Horseback Riding Program Has All-Breed Division ...

http://www.equinechronicle.com Fri, 28 Mar 2014 13:56:49 GMT

AQHA Publicity. The American Quarter Horse Association Horseback Riding Program, sponsored by SmartPak and Professional's Choice, rewards AQHA and AQHYA members for the time they spend in the saddle. With two ...

http://internetbrothers.org Sat, 29 Mar 2014 16:49:42 GMT

The Molalla River Trail System is loaded with so many trails that one could visit it several times and never repeat a hike or ride. There are dozens of loop options to customize your own adventure. It is located 12 miles ...

http://www.rightthisminute.com Mon, 24 Mar 2014 07:40:00 GMT

It's a perspective you've probably never seen before, unless you've gone horseback… more. Helmet cam footage puts you right on the saddle of this jumping horse, Sunny. It's a perspective you've probably never seen before, ...

http://iamnecole.com Wed, 19 Mar 2014 16:59:34 GMT

A horseback ride is everything it's cracked up to be! Earlier this year, when a few close friends and I returned from vacation,we made two vows; To spend more time with each other, and to try something new and adventurous ...

What to Wear Horseback Riding!

Hope this is helpful! Watch Maria's version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itCC2C5KHTc SUBSCRIBE! Our Channels: My channel: http://www.youtube.com/horsechic...

Kevin Hart - Let Me Explain - Kevin went Horse back riding! Hilarious and Last Clip of the film. Aight see you guys Later hehe bye bye =) Thanks for Watching...

North Texas Kids

Mon Mar 31 18:04:05 +0000 2014

Trot your children off to horseback riding camp at PROSPERING FARM. This summer day camp is all about horses and... http://t.co/ObWXKS0faG

Nina Elle

Mon Mar 31 17:41:35 +0000 2014

Yay! Going horseback riding today!! 🎠🐴🐴

http://baskingridge.patch.com Tue, 25 Mar 2014 17:32:39 GMT

BASKING RIDGE, NJ – The Somerset County Park Commission will be conducting registration for spring horseback riding classes and other seasonal programs at Lord Stirling Stable, located at 256 South Maple Avenue in ...

http://www.playdateyakima.com Mon, 10 Mar 2014 18:44:19 GMT

Horseback Riding Lessons. Tiger Lily Horsemanship and Spirit of Hope Equine Center are teaming up to provide Summer 2014 horse lessons! Combining hands-on learning experience with an emphasis on the importance of ...

http://www.crewtrust.org Tue, 18 Mar 2014 11:56:11 GMT

The CREW Trust is partnering with Caloosa Saddle Club members to offer a first-ever guided horseback ride at CREW on Friday, March 21, 2014. The ride will be approximately 15 miles through parts of Flint Pen Strand and ...

Sunday, June 02, 2013

Horseback Riding And Children In New York

Horseback Riding Lessons Beginner Riding Lessons with Maise at Kids Horsin´ Around, Fallbrook, CA 3/3/10 - Note: Many people have commented about the issue of safely walking behind t...

Getting the Most from Riding Lessons (Horse Wise Guides) by: Mike Smith publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC, published: 1998-01-11 ASIN: 158017082X EAN: 9781580170826 sales rank: 70329 price: $4.35 (new), $0.01 (used) This reassuring introduction to riding helps novice riders maximize the lesson experience with information about safety, horse behavior, basic riding exercises, and preparing for that first show
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This companion guide will help readers feel confident and at ease with a qualified instructor, and help them hone their skills outside Horse Riding For Children Ny If you are looking for horse riding for children NY, then you need to go to a place where they are well versed in teaching children how to ride as well as be able to communicate with the animals.

Communication with horses is done through your body language and how you sit atop a horse. It is an important aspect to learn when riding a horse as riding a horse is comparable to driving a car. You need to know what you are doing before you can take off.

Horse Riding For Children Ny
Those who have children who want to learn how to ride should make sure that they are taught in the correct manner with equine training NY. When children take equine training NY, they not only learn how to ride, but why the horse will react in certain ways. This is vital to know if any child plans on going away from a trail ride on a horse. There are many children who love to ride horses because they are fortunate enough to have them where they live and maybe even own horses.

Others learn because they want to be in competition, although a love of the animals is what often drives any child to want to ride a horse. Children need to know safety issues when they plan on riding a horse, something that is taught at horse riding for children NY. Horse riding was a way of life in the United States for centuries and in some areas of the country, even after cars came on the scene.

Horses are still used for crowd control by law enforcement as well as for leisure rides. Many people still have stables and keep horses so that they can enjoy the freedom of being able to go on trails and paths where they can ride and cars cannot go.

Horse riding is an enjoyable way to view nature as well. You can cover more ground riding the horse than you can on foot. There is also the thrill aspect of the ride. The horse can move fast, thus taking you along. Before a person can hope to gallop, though, they have to learn to walk. The lessons usually begin for children as a walk that teaches them to tell the horse, by their body movements, where to go, when to start and when to stop. As a child progresses in lessons, they will have more control over the horse.

Children who are a bit apprehensive at first about being atop these animals will lose their fear and be able to control the animal instead of allowing it to control them. Then they are ready to move a little faster on the horse. Some will learn jumping, an English style of riding while others may learn western style which is without helmets and jumping.

There are various ways to ride a horse and enjoy the time spent with these animals. Those who want to give their children horse riding lessons in Sullivan County, NY can do so at a place that is expertly equipped in equine training.

By: Vikram Kumar

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Equine training NY encompasses horse riding lessons for adults as well as children. To find Horse riding for children NY go to Horse Whisperer Training.

Saturday, May 04, 2013

Choosing A Quality Equestrian Horse Riding Helmet

40 Fundamentals of English Riding: Essential Lessons in Riding Right (Book & DVD) by: Hollie H. McNeil publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC, published: 2011-05-20 ASIN: 1603427899 EAN: 9781603427890 sales rank: 28863 price: $20.19 (new), $19.25 (used)
Master the 40 basic elements essential to all riders in the classic disciplines of dressage, jumping, and eventing with this book and 90-minute DVD showing action sequences for each fundamental. These fundamentals include correct seat, leg, and hand positions for the rider; the three basic gaits of walk, trot, and canter; how to perform halt and half-halt; how to direct a horse’s movement correctly and energetically; the stages of the training scale (rhythm, looseness, contact, impulsion, straightness, and collection); and how to perform basic schooling figures in the arena, from circles and serpentines to diagonals. Each fundamental is defined and explained in text and photos throughout the book, as well as in the 90-minute DVD, with an emphasis on how to avoid common errors. The DVD won a Telly Award for excellence in video production.
More horse riding dares! no crit please.. these were dares I was ASKED to do by friends and subs. thinking if i should delete my original or not as i´ve used the same clips in this a...

Selecting A Good Equestrian Horse Riding Helmet One of the essential pieces of equestrian equipment is a horse riding helmet. Wearing protective gear while riding a pony is one of those things that some people take for granted until the day they need one. A fall from an animal not only involves the unknown elements on the ground such as rocks, but it also requires knowing what the horse is up to. As you are falling from your mount, a kick to the head can be more damaging than the fall itself. That is why a good horse riding helmet is essential.
Another reason that a horse riding helmet is important is because you never know what will happen when you are riding. While you have some measure of control of your mount, you do not have control over the birds flying overhead or the things that can spook your animal into a trot. A low-flying bird that you do not see coming can be painful and so can a low-hanging tree branch that is just about head high as your animal breaks into an unexpected trot.
The right riding gear is one that you purchase brand new and break in on your own. In order for head protection to work properly, it needs to fit right. A used unit has already been broken in by someone else and it could take twice as long for you to get it to fit right as it would a new one. The other issue with a used horse riding helmet is that there could be damage to the interior padding that you may not see until the day you need it. When that padding should be there but is not, then that could result in a devastating injury.
It is critical that your horse riding helmet fall comfortably no less than one inch above your brow. If your helmet sits too low, then there is a chance that it could fall over your eyes when you leap over an obstacle on the course. Remember that the fit of your horse riding helmet should be so comfortable that the chin strap would almost not be necessary. The gear should only move when your head moves. If you look to your side quickly and the head gear does not make the turn with you, then you need to find a different product.
The chinstrap on your horse riding helmet is essential in holding your head gear in place as you experience the ups and downs of equestrian sport. Make sure that the strap does not have sharp edges that could cut into your skin and cause unexpected damage. The snaps on your helmet need to be durable but also easy enough for you to remove when you need to.
The color of your equestrian head gear only becomes important in competition. But do not make the mistake of trying to have separate helmets for practice and competition. Your competition head gear needs to be broken in and fit perfectly if it is going to give you the protection you need.

By: chickie maxwell

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

MyReviewsnow.net offers information regarding selecting the right horse riding helmet. For more on horse riding helmets, please visit us at MyReviewsNow.net.

Sunday, November 07, 2010

Horseback Riding Yosemite National Park

If you'd like to explore the splendor of the Sierra Mountains, try horseback riding in Yosemite National Park in California. Regardless of your experience level, there is something for everyone with guided trail rides, multi-hour and multi-day camping trips and even pony rides for the kids. Following are some of the great horseback riding options available to you at Yosemite National Park.
At the Park's stables in Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows and Wawona, you can choose from two-hour, four-hour and all-day very reasonably priced trail rides. Rates start at $35 per person for a two-ride ride and cost about $70 for all-day rides. You should note that all day horseback rides require a three-person minimum. If you'd like to find out more and to make reservations for rides at one of these locations, call Valley Stables at 209-372-8326; Tuolumne Meadows Stables at 209-372-8427; or Wawona Stables at 209-375-6502
For a more of a back-country horseback riding experience, you can sign on for one of High Sierra's Camp and Saddle Trips. These four, five or six day excursions head out from the Tuolumne Stables and take place during the months of July through September, weather permitting. On one of these adventures, you'll be led by professional, experienced guides and packers who will entertain you with folklore and points of interest throughout the trip. They also take care of everything for you - they pack all the food, gear and feed for the animals. Another engaging part of this journey is that your personal items will be carried through the trails on pack mules. Prices start at around $550 and range up to about $875 depending on the length of the trip you choose and you can even request customized rides. Contact Yosemite Stables by calling 209-372-8348.
With Yosemite Trails, you can take a one or two-hour long horseback ride through the awesome, scenic loop of the Sierra National Forest to get a really up close and personal experience with nature. If you'd like to spend a little more time in the saddle, you can opt to take a 5 1/2 hour trip that includes a ride though the Mariposa Grove within Yosemite Park. In addition to the rest of the park's splendor, you'll also get to see the incredible 2,000 year-old Mariposa trees. It's recommended you bring a lunch on this one. Prices for these three rides range from $30 to $80 - which ain't bad!
Yosemite Trails also offers lead horse rides for children under the age of 7. Your child's horse will be led around the stables by one of the park's qualified wranglers for around $20 for 15 minutes. For more information, you can call Yosemite Trails at 559-683-7611.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Some Basic (But Important) Horseback Riding Tips

Even if you are an experienced horseback rider, there might still be a few things you could learn to help make your ride safer and more enjoyable. Especially for novice riders, there are definitely lots of things to keep in mind to not only enhance the pleasure of your experience, but also for safety reasons. Following are some tips to help you prepare for your ride.
* Always check your equipment thoroughly and make any necessary repairs before you head out. Take along some string, a pocket knife and strips of leather because if your tack fails, you might be able to make at least some temporary repairs enabling you to ride home instead of walking.
* Avoid riding alone, especially for younger and beginner-level riders. If you have even a minor accident and you're alone, you could end up in serious or possibly life threatening situation. Also bring along a cell phone or walk-talkie.
* Wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. If it's too warm for long-sleeves, bring along a lightweight jacket that will protect you from scrapes and sunburn. Covering your arms and legs will also help to keep the bugs from biting you.
* Take some bug repellent with you. Insects flying around your face and your horse can really be an annoyance. Keep in mind that most animals don't like the sound of aerosol spray cans, especially close to their ears. Purchase repellent in a small plastic pump bottle or in a lotion version. This way, you can apply some repellent to your face and hands and also on the horse's face and ears.
* Wear hard-soled boots with a small heal. Try to avoid wearing boots with deep arches or large treads because they can cause your feet to get caught in the stirrups.
* Wear protective head gear because not only can a riding helmet provide protection in the event of a fall, but you might also encounter tree branches or other hazards along the way.
* Wear sunglasses to help provide protection against ultraviolet rays and dust or dirt that can fly up and get in your eyes.
* Bring one of those compact, waterproof ponchos with you. They are small enough to fit in your shirt pocket and are good to have in case of a sudden rain.
* Fanny packs around your around your waist are okay for smaller items you want to take with you, but don't wear a back pack because they have a tendency to throw off your balance and can also get caught in tree limbs.
By following a few simple guidelines you'll have a much nicer ride and a happier horse too!

Article Written By J. Foley
Horse Whispering Secrets

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Horseback Riding in Hawaii

There are lots of places to go horseback riding on the beautiful island of Hawaii. You can choose from trails through its exotic, untouched mountains and valleys with fabulous waterfalls and scenery to privately-owned, horse ranches and stables with beautiful landscapes. Following are two options where you'll no doubt experience the horseback adventure of a lifetime.
Top of Waipio
Top of Waipio is located on a ridge way above the Waipio Valley, where you will find some of the most breathtaking scenery on the Island of Hawaii. This area remains untouched as the sugar cane companies have restricted access to it. You can only get to the overlooks by horseback, foot, ATVs or mountain bikes. Helicopters are not even allowed to get close the rim of the base of the valley!
On horseback, you will ride for two and a half hours through lush, open fields where you'll encounter cows, sugar cane, wild flowers and views of the magnificent Haleakala volcano, twenty-five miles away. You can also opt for a fantastic five-hour Hidden Waterfall ride. This includes the same beautiful experience of the shorter ride, but continues back along the stream that feeds into the Hi'ilawe Falls. You will ride deep into the rainforest and encounter a series of smaller waterfalls and secret pools. You can tie up your horse and hike down to a very private waterfall which spills into a stunning, ginger-lined pool. Then enjoy yourself as you picnic and swim in this hidden, magical place. For more information on this heavenly adventure, go to www.waipioridgestables.com and click on the horseback riding link at the bottom of the page.
Dahana Ranch
Dahana Ranch provides safe and fun horseback rides and activities and prides themselves on their 'Aloha' spirit. They offer several different riding options and welcome families with children as young as three-years-old. You can take a one and half hour, open-range 'Ranch Ride' which covers about four miles of spectacular territory where you'll encounter cattle, sheep, horses and more including fantastic views of the Mauna Kea and Waipi'o Valley. They also offer a 'Range Station' ride for the more adventurous. You can get as loud as you want helping to move their herd of Brahman crossbreds across the ranch. Dahana Ranch accommodates riders of all skill levels but does offer a two-hour Advanced Ride tailored for owners and competitors with lots of freedom on open land. They are open seven days a week with rides daily and by reservation. Visit them at www.dahanaranch.com.
For a full list of locations where you can go horseback riding in Hawaii, visit the Alternative-Hawaii website's Sports and Recreation / Horseback Riding page at http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/activity/bisrhb.htm.
Article Written By J. Foley
http://abouthorses.net

Thursday, July 01, 2010

My Review Of "Horse Training Secrets Revealed”

“Horse Training Secrets Revealed” is a guide that will help you quickly train wild and viscous horses. The guide consists of three parts or separate guides. These three are: “How To Tame and Train Wild and Vicious Horses", “The Horseman's Guide and Farrier Horse” and “A Course in Horsemanship.”

The guide called "How To Tame and Train Wild & Vicious Horses" was actually written in the late 1800s. In this book you will learn about how to tame and train a wild horse in an easy, natural and gentle manner, and the fool proof way to build a connection with your horse. This method was taken from a long lost European manuscript from 1811.
You will also learn the "Three Fundamental Principles" to tame your horse.

The book includes valuable knowledge on removing the horse’s fear of certain objects which is important. You will learn how a horse really decides if an object is safe or dangerous, and things like how to stable a colt without a problem.

The book explains why using a rope halter on an unbroken halt is not a good idea. You will learn what is the best type of halter to use and the right way to use it. Most people don’t know about which sense is the most important one in a horse. This book will teach you about it. There are also many other topics included in this book.

In The Second guide called "The Horseman's Guide and Farrier" you will find great household remedies for a lot of different problems. These remedies are used by master horse trainers.

In this book you will find remedies that have been used effectively for treating over a dozen horse related diseases. It also includes a recipe made by the author for “Horse Powder" which according to the author will "cure more diseases than any other medicine known”. His recipe can be used to cure diseases like Hidebound, Distemper, Fersey, Colds and all lingering diseases which may be appear from blood or lung impurity.

With help of “A course in Horsemanship” you will learn how to make decisions by “reading” the horse. It also includes information on how to teach good behavior and the one thing that most people get wrong about the habits of horses.

“Horse Training Secrets Revealed” has been put together by Craig Perish and it explains in great detail how you can properly train your horses. The book comes with three bonuses that you should check out. The price of the package is $37.77 and there is an 8-week money back guarantee as well.

To Find Out More Of "Horse Training Secrets Revealed" Click Here!

Wednesday, June 02, 2010

Horseback Riding In Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California is home to quite a few facilities which will help to fulfill just about any of your equestrian interests. There are parks, stables, horse centers and two of the finest horse racing tracks in America. It is a very horse-friendly county with many residents owning their own horses. If you'd like to take a horseback ride and don't have the pleasure of owning your own, there's some great places you can go to rent horses.

Griffith Park in Los Angeles has become known for its great trails and stables in and around the park. The trails interweave through every section of the grounds and you can ride to each attraction, including the Park's zoo, by horseback. You can also take a trot up to the park's highest point which is 2,500 feet above the city, for a stunning, unobstructed view of Los Angeles. There are watering stations along the way and beautiful gardens to enjoy. There's even plenty of space take a spirited gallop.

At Griffith Park, you can rent a horse and ride without an escort, Western style. The stables are very accommodating; helmets are not required and basically anything goes in the way of attire. Griffith Park Horse Rentals is open 7 days a week from 8 am until dusk and has a wonderful selection of horses to choose from. It's only $15 for the first hour with a $30 deposit. Every other Friday night, they offer one and a half hour group Western BBQ trail ride for $40. For more information, call 818-841-4024.

The Sunset Ranch Hollywood Stables are located in scenic Beachwood Canyon, right under the Hollywood sign, on the Hollywood side of Griffith Park. You can take part in one of the night-time horseback riding caravans to a wonderful Mexican restaurant situated inside Griffith Park and return to the stables around midnight. They also offer riding lessons, lunch rides and horse rentals at very competitive rates. You can call Sunset Ranch Hollywood Stables at 213-469-5450 or 213-464-9612.
Just two blocks south of Riverside Drive is the Circle K Stables on Mariposa. They're open all year from 7:30 am until dusk, except for Christmas day. They also sometimes offer special evening rides. You'll pay only $15 dollars for the first hour and $10 for each additional with a $25 deposit. Their phone number is 818-843-9840.
Will Rogers State Park is located west on Sunset Boulevard. The park has polo fields, equestrian trails and a delightful, circular stable. They don't rent horses, however you are welcome to bring your own and ride their trails. They also offer professional instruction if you're interested in taking lessons. The information number for the State Park is 310-454-8212.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Horseback Riding In Florida

There are a number of places throughout Florida where you can go on trail rides and horseback riding camping trips. In addition to the stables and ranches, you can obtain a permit to visit one of the beautiful State Parks that offer accommodations for both riders and their horses. Following are a few places that might be of interest to you.

Windmill Ranch in North Florida is a 30-acre ranch that is family-owned and offers horseback riding trail rides starting at only $30 per person. The great thing about this ranch is that you can take a guided or unguided ride, whenever you like. They also offer a summer horseback riding camp for kids ages 8-17, and all campers are offered private daily riding lessons, unlimited horse back riding, swimming and field trips. Additionally, they have regular, adult campsites and cabins available and you can even bring your family pet! Windmill Ranch's web address is www.robinsfurryfriends.com.

Whether you want to go on a one-day ride or a complete equestrian camping trip, Crystal River and Citrus County have beautiful public lands available to their horseback riding residents and guests. The Withlacoothie State Forest in Tillis Hills has a horse stable that accommodates 20 horses and offers one and two-day riding trips. They also provide 37 camping sites and 47 miles of trail for you to ride. Since these are public lands, you'll have to obtain a permit first so call 352-394-2280 for more information. If you're interested in utilizing one of the stables, you can contact the Florida Department of Forestry at 352-796-5650.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District has horseback riding trails on both the Flying Eagle and Pott's Preserve. Flying Eagle has nine miles of horse trails and Pott's Preserve has 12 miles of marked trails that even allows horse-drawn buggies with a permit. There is no charge overnight camping, but you will need a permit. To find out more about horseback riding on Pott's Preserve, call 1-800-423-1476.

If you're looking for an old-style, western cowboy experience, the town of Davie in south Florida might be a place you'd like to visit. Davie has become a very popular spot because of its old-west image, including an authentic-style, wooden Town Hall. They also have a rodeo arena and several western-themed saloons. Davie has set aside trails for horseback riding along its major thoroughfares so for information on taking a leisurely and informative horseback ride through Davie, Florida, go to www.floridasavvy.com.

Friday, April 30, 2010

Colorado Horseback Riding

There are many beautiful horseback riding ranches and resorts in Colorado. Whether you're an experienced rider or just starting out, you'll be sure to find one that is accommodating to your level of skill and interest. Following are a couple of places you might want to check out.
The North Fork Ranch was established in 1985 and is located along the serene North Fork of the South Platte River. Very close to Shawnee, it is about an hour's drive from Denver and one and one-half hours from the Denver International Airport. They are a 520 acre ranch that sits at an elevation of 8100 feet and is connected to the Pike National Forest, Lost Creek Wilderness and Mt. Evans Wilderness.

North Fork Ranch offers a wide variety of activities including all inclusive vacation packages. There is something for everyone with horseback riding, trail rides, hiking and other activities such as fishing and rafting. Additionally, the activities extend well into the evening with hayrides, campfire sing-a-longs and square dancing. They also offer several children's activities that include pony rides, a petting zoo and a kid's rodeo!

You choose from several different horseback rides led by one of their experienced wranglers through the stunning mountains and valleys of North Fork. Riding options including a Lunch on the Trail Ride, a Champagne Brunch Ride and an Overnight Pack Trip. They even start with an orientation and instruction for their inexperienced guests who haven't done much horseback riding.

The ranch prides itself on providing a safe and fun atmosphere and welcomes families with children of all ages including infants. They also offer lower seasonal weekly package rates during May 27 - June 24, and August 19 - September 2. Visit their website at www.northforkranch.com for additional information. You can also contact them by calling their toll free number at 800-843-7895 or email at info@northforkranch.com.

Academy Riding Stables in Colorado Springs offers one, two and three hour rides along the scenic trails of the historical Garden of the Gods. The stables are open year-round and provide guided leisure trail rides for riders of every level of experience. They are very customer-oriented and even have professional cowboys that will match you with a horse that best suits your abilities. Children under 8 are welcome to ride and the stable provides pony rides for the younger ones - they even get to choose their own pony!

Academy Riding Stables recommends that you make reservations and you can get to their website at www.academyridingstables.com. They also have a toll free number you can call which is 888-700-0410 and you can email them at arsriding@adelphia.net.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Horseback Riding Lessons

If you've invested in a horse of your own, want to take riding lessons so that you can visit the stables and go riding with some previous experience or even if you're planning a horseback riding vacation, horseback riding lessons are a definitely a good idea, especially for the beginner or novice rider. But even if you're experienced in certain areas, you might want to go further still and advance your skills by training for competition riding or racing.

There are several different kinds of horseback riding lessons you can take, depending on where your interests in the sport lie. There are clinics devoted to every age group and include training for ranchers, competition riding, lessons for the recreational rider and even classes on learning how to deal with problem horses. You can take one-on-one or group lessons or special classes taught by internationally renowned horseback riders.

The length of the lessons will vary and but most are normally for around one hour or so. Usually, when you arrive for your lesson, you will be given an initial assessment of your skills. Then the you and your instructor can evaluate what goals you want to reach and set up the type of lessons you'll need based on that information.

Here are a few different categories of horseback riding lessons available, based on levels of experience, to help you determine which area you fall under.

Beginner: A person who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot (set the pace) and does not canter (cantering is slower than a galloping pace, but faster than trotting).

Novice: A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting the horse without assistance, can apply basic aids, is comfortable and in control at a walking pace and who can ride for a moderate length trot and short canters.

Intermediate: A rider who has a firm seat (balanced and comfortable in the saddle), is confident and in control at all paces including posting trots, two-point canters and gallops, but does not ride regularly.

Strong Intermediate: An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable being in the saddle for at least six hours a day.

Advanced: A rider who encompasses all of the above skills in addition to an independent seat, soft hands (light but commanding control of the reigns) and who is capable of handling a spirited horse in open country.

There are numerous horse stables across the United States and internationally that offer lessons at various levels. Browse around online to find one in your area, and be sure that you choose an instructor who you feel comfortable with so you can get the most out of your learning experience.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Horseback Riding In Maui

It's common knowledge that Maui, Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places on earth. But in addition to the fantastic tropical atmosphere, fabulous food and wonderful culture, there are also great options for horseback riding.

Ironwood Ranch is located atop the western Maui Mountains, high above the busy resort area. They claim to have the best string of horses available in the entire region and specialize in smaller group rides. There are also private rides available upon request and you can even have a horseback riding party on their grounds if you like. They offer a wide variety of horseback riding options and can accommodate families and individual riders of any experience level. The ranchers will specially select a horse for you that matches your riding style and ability and even offer smaller, gentle horses for children. Choose from several different tours and ride through the pineapple fields and Ironwood Forest while enjoying spectacular views of Maui and its neighboring islands. Visit Ironwood Ranch's website at www.ironwoodranch.com.

Haleakala on Horseback offers two exciting, 'House of the Sun' guided horseback trail rides into the largest, dormant volcano on Earth - the Haleakala. They provide experienced guides that narrate the trip, giving you all sorts of information on the fascinating history and geology of Haleakala in addition to the rare plants and animals found there. Take the eight-mile Haleakala Crater Ka Moa O Pele Junction Ride and descend down the soft slope of the Sliding Sands Trail, 2500 feet to the crater floor! It's about four hours of incredible scenery and there is no prior horseback riding experience necessary. Plus, you'll be given a wonderful lunch when you reach the bottom. Go to www.mauihorsebackriding.com for more information.

Mendes Ranch is an actual working cattle ranch situated in the heart of West Maui. Ride the range into the base of flourishing, green valleys where you'll take in breathtaking views of the flowing waterfalls of the West Maui Mountains. Afterward, ride along the waves of the beautiful shorelines. They have a two-hour morning ride which starts at 8:30 am and an afternoon ride beginning at 12:30 in the afternoon. At the end of each ride, you'll be offered a generous, Azeka-style feast for an additional fee. The ranch is closed on Sundays and the minimum age for riders is 7 years old. Their web address is www.mendesranch.com.

Lahaina Stables is nuzzled in the slopes of the West Maui Mountains. They offer several riding options including a two-hour morning ride, three and a half lunch ride and a remarkable, two-hour sunset ride which they highly recommend, especially for experienced riders. They welcome families with a minimum age requirement of 8-years-old. Get more information at www.mauihorse.com.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Horseback Riding Boots

The types of boots you choose to wear when horseback riding can play a big part in the level of enjoyment you'll get during your ride. Boots come in a wide variety of styles and are designed in several different categories. One thing for sure is to always choose a boot with a smaller heal, lower arch and no deep treads so that you can avoid getting your feet stuck in the stirrups. Here's some background on the types of boots that are available.

All Terrain Riding Sneakers / Barn Boots

If you like to stop and hike a little during your day out riding horses, these are a good option to consider. This type of shoe is a cross between comfortable sneakers, paddock boots and hiking shoes. Barn boots, as they're also called, are lightweight, breathable and very durable and will give you stability along with comfort. Most are made with waterproof materials for both men and women, and are also ergonomically designed with special soles for improved cushioning and air circulation.

Paddock Boots

Paddock boots are easier to deal with than the taller style of riding boots and they're also much safer than riding in your favorite pair of old sneakers although just as comfortable. They are available in zip-up, lace-up and pull on styles and also provide you stability while you're on the ground as well as in the stirrups.

Tall Riding Boots

Riding boots that are taller at either knee or a little over in length can not only protect your legs, but also come in dressier styles because they are common attire worn by sporting and competition horse riders such as jockeys, equestrians and polo players. They are usually designed with appearance, comfort and performance in mind and are available in an extensive variety.

Field Boots

When the weather isn't so nice outside, throwing on a pair of field boots can alleviate the work of having to clean and/or condition your regular riding boots. They are designed to be very durable in addition to comfortable and are a very popular choice for riding or taking care of your horse during nastier weather conditions.

Western or 'Cowboy' Boots

The great thing about cowboy boots is that they are genderless and ageless, worn by men, women and children. This type of boot has been around for centuries and although they come in an enormous variety of styles and designs, are still made with the same basic working concepts in mind. The lower heel, smooth sole, height of the boot to protect your legs and convenient finger loops make them easy to pull on are still today, the most popular choice of boot for western-style horse riders.

Article Written By J. Foley

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