Tips To Prevent Horseback Riding Injuries

Horseback riding

Tips to Prevent Horseback Riding Injuries By J. Foley

With a weight of up to 1,500 pounds, a height of 3 meters and a speed of 30 mph, horses can be quite formidable if the rider should happen to fall off. The amount and seriousness of the injuries can be very high and might also lead to fatal consequences. The probability of injuries in horseback riding is much higher than in motorcycle riding and as such it is essential that proper precautions should be taken so that the fun associated with horseback riding is not unnecessarily spoilt.

The most common areas of injuries are the arms, the spine and the head. If the injury is in the spinal region, the result can be permanent disability leading to paralysis. A head injury could cause seizures and the victim might even go into a coma. Although most injuries take place while riding, other injuries can be the result of handling, feeding and grooming the horse in the stable.

Recommendations
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons has recommended the following preventive measures to reduce the chance of injuries

1) Horseback riding helmets that meet safety standards must always be worn while riding.
2) Beginners should be properly instructed by experienced instructors and they should be supervised while riding. Moreover, they should be asked to ride experienced horses that have a good temperament and are cool and more predictable.
3) Each rider should be allotted a horse that will match his age, experience, skill and size.
4) All riding equipment should be checked to ensure that there is no damage and that it is properly fitted.
5) No loose clothing should be worn and well-fitted leather boots with minimum heel should be used.
6) Safety stirrups that snap if the rider falls should be used by children and beginners.
7) Amateurs should not attempt jumps or stunts without someone supervising them.
8) It is important to move away from the side of the horse when you hit the ground, if you feel that you are falling from the horse.
9) You should always be on the alert for any sudden noise or movement as this makes the horse run away from the same.
10) It is advisable not to ride a horse if you are on medication, tired or if you have consumed alcohol.
11) Proper body-protecting gear should be worn to prevent soft-tissue injuries and rib fractures.

With all these protective tips, you can look forward to an enjoyable and safe horseback riding experience.

Horseback riding
Article Written By J. Foley

The Best Horseback Riding Vacations

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The Best Horseback Riding Vacations By J. Foley

For spending your vacations in the midst of nature and to relax in the open skies, there is nothing better then a Horseback riding vacation particularly if it is offered by travel and tour services. You can choose from any of the following locations in the world: United States, England, France, Italy, Spain, Ireland, Scotland, Morocco, Portugal, New Zealand, Greece, Costa Rica and Mexico.
Travel and tour services have experienced staff that visit and research all locations before recommending them to their clients. The staff checks all the facilities practically by doing all that the visitor will be experiencing during the vacation and ensuring that everything is in order. Their meticulous efforts enable them to offer the best horseback riding vacations in the world.
Horseback Trail Riding Vacations
If you love horses, want to see the countryside, meet people and travel like our ancestors, taking a horseback riding vacation is your best option. You can also improve your horseback riding skills as you will meet the best instructors in this field.
If you really want to see the farms, forests, hills and meadows, there is nothing like taking their trail riding vacations. You will also be able to become familiar with the local people and share their lifestyle particularly in regard to horseback riding.
Horseback Training Vacations
During the horseback riding vacations, their expert trainers will help you to enhance your riding skills at all stages of learning.

Horseback Riding Vacation Reservations
If you want to book your horseback riding vacation you can do so online or give them a call or contact a travel agent. You will be able to select the best vacation as per your needs.
Rating Your Horseback Riding Ability
Before choosing a horseback riding vacation you must have a basic knowledge and some experience of riding cross-country. You should also know whether you prefer English or Western tack for riding, the extent to which you can ride, whether you can ride on trails on different terrains or only in an arena and the level of your stamina and physical strength.

There are ride consultants available with the trips that can gauge your abilities and recommend the horseback riding vacation that would be most appropriate for you. So, get in touch with them if you want to have a really exciting riding holiday. There is no doubt that you will yearn to come back for such horseback riding vacations year after year.

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Article Written By J. Foley

Horseback Riding At A Dude Ranch

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Horseback Riding At A Dude Ranch BY J. Foley

If you are bored of your mundane routine of working at break-neck speed, just get away for a horseback riding vacation at a Dude Ranch. You will break free from the humdrum of city life and find yourself in the lap of mother nature. You can forget about your unending phone calls, the constant vigil on the computer and the tensions of your work. You will be able to enjoy the carefree atmosphere of open spaces and gaze at the stars in the night and agree fully with the poet who had remarked, “What’s this life if full of care, you have no time to stand and stare?” A horseback riding vacation at a Dude Ranch can provide adventure and wholesome fun. You can eat, drink and be merry and have a ‘riding’ experience that you will never forget.
The American Tradition of Dude Ranch Vacations
Reminiscent of the cowboy days, Dude Ranches have become very popular since the time Roosevelt worked as a ranchman and asked his fellow-Americans to give vent to their adventurous spirits. Many Dude Ranches have been set up to accommodate the fun-seeking visitors, who can savor the ambience of cowboy life. However, modernization has upgraded the facilities available at such ranches and besides horse riding, many other activities like fishing, swimming, hiking, campfires and square dances are also available.

Horse Riding Hints
While you are enjoying yourself at a Dude Ranch, it is important to follow the hints given below for safe horse riding.
1) For neck-reining do not use both hands to “yank” the horse to the side you want. Simply put pressure on the left with the rein if you want to turn right and vice versa.
2) It is important to check if your cinch is snug and the cinch buckle is engaged in the “latigo strap” with the prong in one of its holes.
3) Try to ride with the group particularly when a rider opens or shuts a door.
4) Avoid walking up behind or up to a tied horse. Talk to the horse softly and make it aware of your presence so that it does not get frightened.
5) While getting off the horse, wrap the reins on the neck of the horse. Do not drop them on the ground. Avoid wearing a jacket or a rain coat that might flap in the breeze and scare the horse.
6) Do not allow the horse to grab grass by getting its head down all the time and run down or up the hill.
Try to develop good riding techniques and you will enjoy your horseback riding vacation at a Dude Ranch.

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Article Written By J. Foley

Ireland Country Estate Horseback Riding And Trail

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Ireland Country Estate Horseback Riding Training and Trail By J. Foley

Horseback riding is not the only activity at Ireland's Mount Juliet estate. It also offers riders facilities for training, fishing, shooting sporting clays and playing golf. The vacation also provides opportunities for archery, tennis, a health club, spa and a heated pool where non-riding companions can also enjoy.

Horseback riding is taken seriously at Mount Juliet sporting resort where the added attraction is the unique opportunity to witness the birth of a foal during the foaling season. Moreover, cross country jumping, show jumping, fox hunting, dressage and hunt seat are the other activities that a rider can indulge in. You are at liberty to chalk out the program for horseback riding as per your convenience.

Ireland's Connemara Oceanside Trail Horseback Riding
Connemara is a very beautiful place where one can get lost in the magic of its extremely attractive surroundings. It provides beach riding opportunities that most horseback riders love to avail of. Irish hospitality will almost spoil you and you will feel that you are a member of their community. You can also enjoy the three things that the Irish love – a hearty laugh, a pint of beer at the pub and a good horse. Their horses have a strong frame and are steady and amiable.

Sligo, Donegal and Riding by the Sea, Unguided Trail Rides
Many companies offer trail rides in County Sligo and County Donegal which are a part of the Green Island. You can enjoy riding on sandy beaches, through mountains and forests and across lush green fields. The "Sligo Trail" spans the most attractive area in Ireland.

Horseback riders on this vacation are at liberty to ride as and when they like. All that you need to do is to gather your horse, saddlebags and a map and you can start exploring on your own. You can also book your own accommodation but if you are new to Sligo it is advisable to follow a pre-determined plan. The Sligo Trail covers beaches and the hills and lasts for seven days with well-planned trails and pre-booked accommodation.

The Donegal Trail covers beautiful and widespread landscape and the best scenery of Ireland, lasting for twelve days. The trail is well planned and a warm welcome awaits you and your horse at the end of each day.

You can also try out a new route every day by staying at the farm. Cross country course at the farm can also be used along with the stadium jumps.

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Article Written By J. Foley

France Horseback Riding Vacations

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France Horseback Riding Vacations By J. Foley

Horseback riding is an adventurous activity and when you can taste the best wines along the way the result can be exhilarating. That is exactly what you can expect if you are on a horseback riding vacation in France’s Bordeaux Trail. The noblest wines are produced in the Gironde area, notable among which are Cote de Blaye, Bordeaux Superior, Lalande, Medoc, Saint-Emilion, etc.

The Gironde area is very picturesque with rich agricultural land, sandy beaches, mountains, farms, castles and meadows. A large part of this area still maintains its pristine ambience. You will be able to tour the vineyards on the way and enjoy tasting the wines. You can visit the magnificent castle, Blaye Citadel, which has a very large garden completely covered with flowers.

The horses available here are of mixed breed conforming to the French saddle variety. Small hotels and farmhouses will serve as your accommodation on the way.

Loire Valley Trail Ride: Horseback Riding Vacation in France
Beautiful chateaux line up the banks of the Loire River along with the Loire Valley which is abundantly endowed with rolling hills, sunflower fields, forests and vineyards. The horseback riding experience at the Loire Valley Trail will take the rider along vineyards, forests, chateaux and castles in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Chateau de Menetou-Salon and a chateaux for wine tasting will come along your route and you can enjoy the ride through forests and wildlife when you are in the "Sologne" area. As you come near the castle of La Verrerie in the evening, its reflection in the magical lake will simply enchant you. The fortress at La Chapelle d'Angillon is a good place for picnics and for visiting the castle.


Provence Inn-to-Inn Ride: France Horseback Riding Vacation
The Luberon region of Provence is ideal for horseback riding as it is full of vineyards, fields of lavender and olive groves. Starting from the base of the Luberon Mountain Range you can ride higher each day along roads and trails which are a forgotten reminder of the past. You can enjoy the sight of the Mediterranean Sea, the Alps and Provence, all at the same time.

Riding a Camargue or Selle Francais horse and being led by an English-speaking guide, you will have the best experience of your life. At noon, you can expect an excellent picnic lunch and at night a most relaxing shower and a comfortable bath. This horseback riding vacation lasts for six nights and five days and takes you through the lower part of the French Alps on the road to Lourdes.

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Article Written By J. Foley

Introduction To Horseback Riding Review

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Introduction To Horseback Riding Review By J. Foley
Why Learning Through An Ebook Makes Sense for Any Horseback riding Enthusiast!
The simple fact is, for many of us, starting with horseback riding lessons is designed to fail. If you don't know whether you are really interested in horseback riding, what is the use of expensive lessons before you even begin? Plus, most riding lessons are located well outside the city, forcing most of us to make a large commute to get out there. If you are learning horseback riding as an adult, you may feel silly floundering about on a horse in front of an all-ages class. And of, course, the cost of horseback riding lessons can be very high.
Doesn't it make more sense to learn the basics of horseback riding before you ever drive out to see a horse?
Think about it....
If you knew the basics on how to ride a horse before you drove out to see one, you'd save money on lessons to gain the basic understanding of horseback riding. In fact, you might well be able to take fewer lessons to improve your techniques. You'd already have all you need for basic rides and trail rides. Plus, when you ride under qualified guidance you'd gain confidence by then being on a horse, which means you'd actually be building on your knowledge as you rode along, instead of feeling silly and lacking knowledge of the terminology right from the outset.
This isn’t about replacing the lessons completely – No, this is about preparing you to really enjoy getting in that saddle for the first time – replacing some of the ‘fear factor’ with the confidence to know that you have done a bit of preparation and feel armed with some really helpful and comforting knowledge to help you enjoy that first lesson more!
Plus, you'd stay safer, since you'd already know what to do and what not to do.
The ebook "Introduction to Horseback Riding" does this for you. It is packed with information about where to go, how to approach a horse, how to ride, and how to follow some basic safety rules. This simple ebook lays it all out for you, so that you will know exactly what you are doing...before you approach a horse.

Check It Out Here : http://sophie4.horseback.hop.clickbank.net

Training With Attitude

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Training with Attitude
by Ron Meredith

Heeding is an attitude you have whenever you're around your horse as much as it is a technique for communicating with him on the ground. You start heeding your horse from the first moment you connect with him whether that's walking down the barn aisle to his stall or out in a field to catch him. You maintain that attitude all the while you're grooming, while you're tacking him up, and while you're working him, whether you work him on the ground or under saddle. And it's not over til it's over. You maintain the attitude while you tack his tack off, cool him out, groom him again and put him away.

I like the word "heeding" because it takes a bunch of concepts like leading and heeling and paying attention and rolls them all up together. It's not a word people hear very often so it makes them stop and think about what it means. There are several things they need think about if they want to develop the attitude of heeding:

* Be with your horse now, now, and now. When you're with your horse, be with him every moment, every step. You have to put your total attention and focus on the horse if you want him to put his on you. You can't be grooming him and singing along with the radio or leading him and thinking about tomorrow's exam or riding him while you're focused on the way he blew his leads yesterday. You have to be with your horse now, at this moment. Not thinking about the last moment or the one that's coming. You have to be with him stride by stride by stride whether you're leading him or riding him. When you're working with your horse, you always give him your total attention now and now and now.

* Be the dominant partner without being predatory. You need the horse's respect in order to be safe around him and to get his attention so you can train him to play whatever game it is you want to play. You have to show the horse that you are the alpha mare in your partnership and ask for his respect by being assertive and putting pressure on the horse. But you never want to use a pressure that surprises the horse or startles him or makes him "spang." When you do that, you become a predator, something to be afraid of. You never want the horse to be afraid of you. You want him to think of being with you as a comfortable, safe place to be.

* Show the horse what you want one bite at a time. When students come into Training I, I point out to them that if I asked them to swallow a big ball of string, they would find that pretty gross. But if I take that same ball of string and feed it to them a half inch or even a quarter of an inch at a time, they could eventually swallow that whole ball of string without too much fuss. It's the same with the horse. It's our job to break the game we want to play with the horse down into the smallest bites of string we can, then to feed those to him just one at a time. No forcing, no over facing, no fuss.

* Be horse logical when you show and ask the horse to do something. When you want the horse to learn something new, first you have to show him what you want, then you can ask for it. You show and ask the horse by methodically applying a horse-logical pressure or corridor of pressures that creates a feeling in the horse of the shape you want him to take. A horse-logical pressure is just a baby step away from something the horse already knows and it goes away when he does what you are showing or asking him to do. The horse stays calm and the reward of releasing the pressure teaches him what you want.

* Be fair when you tell the horse to do something or enforce that request. A corridor of horse-logical pressures creates a feeling in the horse of a shape that you want him to take. Once the horse understands what shape the corridor of pressures is asking him to take, you can start telling him what to do. Telling means that, within the context of what he's already doing, just starting to create the corridor becomes enough to communicate the new shape you want to the horse to take. It's not fair to tell a horse to take a shape and expect that he will do it until you are sure he knows what you're asking. But once you are sure he knows, you can enforce your corridor of pressures to remind him if he gets sloppy or contrary or lazy with stronger aids or a crop or a spur. That's fair as long as your enforcement does not startle or surprise him.

Heeding becomes a mindset that applies whether you're working with your horse on the ground or sitting on his back or sitting behind him in a wagon. You do it in your horse's stall, in an arena, in a field, on the trail, up and down your driveway, in and out of a horse trailer, or in the barn aisle when you're grooming or the farrier's there or the vet's come.

As groundwork, heeding involves some basic techniques but those techniques always have to be tempered by both the temperament and experience of the horse and the temperament and the experience of the trainer. Anybody can read a book or watch a video and pick up a few techniques. It's the attitude of heeding that helps you adapt those techniques to the individual horse and the individual situation.

If you think getting a special halter or rope or stick or pen will make you more successful at training your horse, go right ahead and get them. Those things help some people with their technique but they aren't essential to the attitude. The great thing about an attitude is that it's light and portable. You can just carry it with you wherever you go.

horseback riding

Loud Bits Destroy Communication

Loud Bits Destroy Communication
by Ron Meredith

A lot of people think you train horses with equipment. This is one of the biggest MythUnderstandings out there. Try this bit, try that bit. If those don't work, try a thinner bit or one with a longer shank. If those don't work, tie that sucker's head down or crank him in with draw reins.

Most people believe that you should start a horse with a really quiet bit, so-to-speak. Then the further along in the horse's training you go, the bigger the bit you should automatically put in his mouth because it takes a bigger bit for him to understand more. People think that there's a direct relationship between what a horse knows and what kind of bit is in his mouth. What actually happens is that the horse gets used to the bigger and bigger bits. Eventually, you need the bigger bit because the horse is used to the beating he gets with it every day.

You can either treat your horse with respect and use a bit that is only a small part of an entire corridor of aids or you can force the horse to accept its daily workout in a severe bit that is louder than your legs and seat. If you force the horse to accept a bit that shouts, you cut all the other communication lines that you could have developed using your body position and legs.

When you get the horse so worried about how much bit is going to hit him and how often, you take his mind off a total shape. And to ride a horse accurately and to the degree that will make him a winner you need to create a total shape for each stride using:

an inside leg at the girth,
an outside leg a little further back,
your weight shifted onto a specific seat bone,
an inside rein positioning the head and softening the jaw,
an outside rein following the horse's rhythm,
your seat either maintaining the cadence of the gait or half-halting to collect the horse.
You must use a full corridor of pressures that the horse feels and understands as a specific shape. The horse will never understand or feel this shape if you don't understand it. The optimum communication between two individuals must exclude violence and punishment and must be based on both individuals' feelings and opinions. When you choose a bit to communicate with the horse, your first choice should be one that can never speak louder than your seat and legs.

When someone is trying to communicate primarily with a loud bit, the horse's primary effort will be to escape the bridle. And when a horse escapes the bridle the rider often tries to tie his head in position with some device so that he can't get away from the pressure or ruin the leverage. When the bit is louder than the rider's seat and legs the horse will never even feel the seat or legs. He will only feel the squeeze in his mouth. Whenever you see a horse fighting the bit, he has lost all feeling for the rest of the aids. It is just like getting your finger slammed in a car door.

Gadgets such as tie downs, chambons, draw reins and head sets are only substitutes for the correct use of seat, leg, and rein aids as a corridor of pressures that shape the horse. These training gadgets are molds, not aids. They force the horse's body into an evasion rather than showing him the correct shape. They are "breaking" devices, not training devices. Breaking is telling the horse what NOT TO DO; training is telling what TO DO. Control does not come from forcing the horse to assume a shape with gadgets. True control over a horse's gymnastic abilities comes from developing the driving muscles to drive and the carrying muscles to carry.

When you drive hard enough from the back, the front comes off the ground. That is call "rebalancing." You can't get collection or rebalancing using tricks. So many people think that technology is having a trick for each thing rather than having a methodical, logical, systematic, gymnastic conditioning program. You only need tricks and gadgets if your skill is limited.

A lot of people believe they are demonstrating riding skill when their horse will tolerate severe equipment. When you ride with a full corridor of aids, you will never need a big bit or any gadgets to put the horse's head in a position. However, a bigger bit can be used effectively in some situations. For example, if the horse has been carried through his training with a rider who has used the full corridor of aids and the horse understands the rider's body language and positions, the bigger bit can be introduced and used for upper level games so that all the rider has to do is whisper with the reins. But even an advanced horse can be ridden effectively with a snaffle if it is ridden on a full corridor of aids.

Horses are so sensitive that they can feel a fly land on their skin. They can feel and understand a mild bit if the rider knows how to use it. But you can't train in shouts and show in whispers. When you put a bit in the horse's mouth that multiplies your pressures you lose your corridor of aids. The bit becomes louder than your seat and legs and you lose all effectiveness. All attention is on those fingers slammed in the car door.

You don't train horses with equipment. You train them by developing a communication system that uses a full corridor of aids. You introduce each new concept in a horse logical way in the smallest, tiniest bites you can reduce it to. You introduce it so it is just one step away from something else you and the horse already successfully communicate about. Remember that rhythm, relaxation and repetition are the cornerstones of good training.

Meredith Manor International Equestrian Centre. All rights reserved.
Instructor and trainer Ron Meredith has refined his "horse logical" methods for communicating with equines for over 30 years as president of Meredith Manor International Equestrian Centre, an ACCET accredited equestrian educational institution.

Rt. 1 Box 66
Waverly, WV 26184
(800)679-2603

How To use Smart Horse Training To Stop Your Horse From Bucking

How To Use Smart Horse Training To Stop Your Horse From Bucking
By: Andy Curry

It can be enormously frightening to be on a bucking horse. If you're a novice rider, a bucking horse can almost force you to give up the "owning a horse" dream. But it doesn't have to be that way.

I've read where people who can ride a bucking horse feel they're a good rider. That may be. But it doesn't mean they're good at training. And training is what we want to do.

Preventing bucking begins when the horse is a colt. One must go to every extent in his training so he won't be inclined to buck - and that includes preventing bucking if he tries.

Naturally, that doesn't help you if your horse bucks already. Thus, if your horse bucks then the question is whether or not it is solvable. The answer is: Usually.

The first thing to do is try and figure out why he bucks. This may be done by trying to eliminate the causes.

As a for instance, one of the most common causes of bucking is that the rider punishes the horse's mouth without knowing it. Also, he may be giving the horse conflicting aids. For instance, the rider may boot his horse forward and jerk on the reins to slow him down. Then the rider jerks his head around to turn him. As the horse fights this the rider gets mad and boots him hard again.

Finally, the horse bucks. Why? Because he's absolutely frustrated.

Thus, fixing your riding habits to ones that make sense and are thoughtful for your horse will solve that problem. If you're a novice rider then riding lessons will help you immensely.

As you ride, ride relaxed. Focus on the feel of your horse. Give him the aid or signal to do what you want. Don't over exaggerate it. Give just enough signal to get him doing what you want then let it be.

If you plan to put him into a lope from a walk or trot, or vice versa, then think ahead and do it in a relaxed fluid manner. Don't surprise or startle your horse. Keep him relaxed. A relaxed horse is not going to buck.

Another solution may be changing bits. If you are using a curb bit perhaps you should try going to a snaffle. A snaffle is easier on a horse's mouth. It will still maintain contact with your horse and help him relax.

Another common time a horse bucks is when the rider asks the horse to canter or lope. A horse will sometimes buck in the canter because it's natural for him to. It could also happen if the rider signals his horse too suddenly and severely in asking for the canter.

You see, a lot of people think they have to boot their horse hard to get the canter- - and when they do, they jerk on the horse's mouth when they boot him. Or, the rider may ride with loose reins so the horse will canter and then jerk his mouth to try and slow the horse down right when he begins cantering.

I don't know if you spotted it yet but what's happening here is that the horse is getting confused. Not only that, it's also hurting the horse.

After all, put yourself in your horse's place. If you were asked to canter and the second you did you felt a painful jerk on your mouth...wouldn't you be a little upset? And if it happened every time, wouldn't you think to yourself, "I gotta get this jerk off my back - he's killin' me!"

Now let's say you don't know why your horse is bucking. Let's assume your riding habits are good and your horse bucks anyway.

Here are some helpful suggestions.

First, if your horse bucks you then it is crucial you don't stop him. If you do, he learns that if he wants to stop all he has to do is buck. Very quickly, you'll have a smart horse who knows that to stop he only has to buck.

So, instead of stopping, do this.

First, brace your arms against your body yet keep them relaxed and keep contact with your horse. While doing this, lean back and drive your horse to go forward. (Making a horse go forward is a big horse training secret to help you get your horse's cooperation and obedience.)

Because you brace your arms, it makes your horse's head go up and driving him forward makes his attempts at bucking hard enough he'll quit trying to buck. The point is the horse cannot buck when he is moving forward with energy.

The next step is you must continue moving your horse forward with energy using your seat and legs until he quits trying to buck - be sure to control his speed.

Sometimes it's necessary to hold your horse's head up to stop the bucking while moving him forward. If you need to do that then be sure not to pull his head back. Instead pull it up. You do that by extending your arms and pull up.

If you have a horse that bucks whenever he feels like it then he should be doubled. The trick is to do it on the first buck if you can. Double him then boot him out of it with energy. Then double him the other way and boot him out of it and put him in a trot and make him keep moving.

Remember the horse must slow down to buck. If you can tell your horse is slowing down and getting ready to buck then boot him forward and pick up the pace.






About the Author

Andy Curry is a nationally known horse trainer and author
of several best selling horse training and horse care books.
For information visit his website at www.horsetrainingandtips.com.
He is also the leading expert on Jesse Beery's horse training
methods which can be seen at www.horsetrainingandtips.com/Jesse_Beerya.htm


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Developing The Bond Between Man And Horse

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The relationship between man and horse is an enduring one. But dealing with animals is always easier and more enjoyable when you have empathy and understanding. To be able to relate to horses,you need to understand their pychology, in order to anticipate horses'reactions you have to understand how they think and why they behave in certain ways. A good understanding also builds confidence on both sides-human and equine.

When faced with a threatening situation, the horse's nature is one of flight, and therefore its perspective on life is one of vulnerability rather than attack. As humans, how we react and feel in certain situations depends on our upbrining and experience. It is the same with horses, which is why careful early handling and training are so important.

We can never expect a horse to go against its natural instincts, that is, never to be frightened or wary - but with good training we can control these instincts and show the horse, in a positive way, that a particular situation or object need not be feared.

Horses are gregarious herd animals, welcoming the company of other horses, as well as other creature companions and humans. Even domesticated stable horses establish their own 'pecking order'.

Either the stallion at the end of the row calls loudest when feed time is due or, as many top riders report, their retired star kicks the stable door demanding attention first when what it considers as 'it' rider walks into the stableyard in the morning.

It is widely known the horse responds best to praise and encouragement from its trainer or rider to overcome its natural flight instincts and not be dominated. 'Breakin-in', the term formerly associated with a youg horse's first conditioning to carry a rider, has now commonly been replaced with terms such as 'starting', which infer much less the idea of domination.

From the disabled child fearlessly enjoying the company of ponies as part of therapy to the most successful of international competitive combinations, a common bond - that of trust and empathy between rider and horse - is being developed.

The horse looks at its human contacts as part of its 'herd' in the herd hierarchy,the human rider and trainer's intellectual capacities give him or her the upper hand. This is why the man/horse relationship has worked so well for several thousand years, and humans can control an animal with many times their own strengths and power.

Riders in their early lessons will often be told 'Don't be nervous'. Although at this stage the rider should be learning from an experienced horse and therefore should be able to relax, the fact that horses need reassurance and security is something to bear in mind and cultivate from the start of a riding career.

horseback riding
Article Written By J. Foley

The Top 7 Mistakes Horse Owners Make

horseback riding


The Top 7 Mistakes Horse Owners Make By: Andy Curry

#7 – Assuming You Can Get On Any Horse And Simply RideNot all horses are the same. Some you can get on and easily ride. Some are so green that you could be easily injured if you have little or no riding experience. The ones easy to ride are typically older horses. They have been ridden the most and will be the most forgiving of a beginning rider’s mistakes. The younger horses will be the hardest to ride unless they have been thoroughly broke. Mistake #6 – Assuming A Horse Trainer’s Technique Is The Only Way To Train A Horse When novice horse owners begin to experience problems with their horse, they go looking for answers. The first place they look is in books. When the author of the book explains a training technique, the reader assumes that’s how it’s done by everyone. But when they can’t train their horse with that technique, they assume a dumb or untrainable horse. What novice horse owners need to know is that there are typically lots of ways to train a horse to do one thing. If you try something and it doesn’t work, try something else. Mistake #5 – Not Riding A Horse Enough New horse owners experience problems with horses not because the horse suddenly went sour, but because they don’t ride their horses enough. About the best thing you can do to have a good horse is to ride it and ride it and ride it. Don’t ride him just once every couple weeks. Horses need to ridden a lot to make them a good riding horse. Mistake #4 – Thinking A Problem With The Horse Is The Horse’s FaultAlthough a horse may have some problems, they are typically a result of the horse’s owner. There are rarely horse problems – it’s more likely there are problem riders. For instance, if you can’t get your horse to ride away from home (this is called “Barn Sour”) it’s likely because you don’t have control over him. You can establish control with various techniques such as Doubling. Mistake #3 – Not Understanding How Horses Think Horses do not think like dogs or cats. Horses are a prey animal which means they run from scary things. They have thousands of years of the “flight instinct” built in their brains. To successfully train them takes patience and understanding that they are naturally fearful and cynical. Mistake #2 – Not Knowing That Every Interaction With A Horse Is A Training Exercise Every time you interact with your horse you are training him. Even if your horse is well trained with the lead rope, you are training him every time you use the lead rope. Even when you pet your horse, you are training him. Novice horse owners must think through what they do when working with their horse because they can easily and unknowingly affect a horse’s behavior. Mistake #1 – Riding A Horse With Little Or No Understanding Of Horsemanship A typical novice horse owner will ride their new horse not knowing horse-riding skills. It is important to have an understanding of riding techniques because horses react to leg pressure, how you sit in the saddle, whether or not the rider is tense, and a whole host of other things. Let’s face it. Horses need to be understood for a horse owner to be successful with his horse. The best thing novice horse owners can do is learn how to ride, learn how horses think, learn what works good to shape horses’ behavior, and understand that constantly riding a horse is just about the best thing you can do to have a good horse.
About the Author
Andy Curry is a nationally known horse trainer and author of several best selling horse training and horse care books. For information visit his website at www.horsetrainingandtips.com. He is also the leading expert on Jesse Beery's horse training methods which can be seen at www.horsetrainingandtips.com/Jesse_Beerya.

horseback riding

Matching Horse And Rider

horseback riding

Matching Horse And Rider By J. Foley

Just as with humans, horses have very different temperaments and characteristics depending on their breeding; talents, and how quickly or slowly they grow up. There is no such thing as a 'bad-tempered horse', merely one that has reacted
antagonistically to some bad experience. 'Bad horses are made, not born.

Apart from training the horse properly, to ensure these bad experiences do not occur and leave a negative imprint, it is as important to match the right horse to the right job as it is to match horse to rider.

A highly nervous, quick-reacting thoroughbred will lose confidence with an experienced handler just as quickly as the handler will. Similarly, a laid-back, big-framed cob forced to go fast in a jump-off every week is going to be just as unhappy as its frustrated rider who fails yet again to win a prize. In these situations, it is less an admission of failure than one of common sense to acknowledge that both horse and rider would be happier with a partner better suited in temperment, objectives and riding skill.

As a general principle, a young horse needs an experienced rider and a novice rider is better off on a steady, experienced horse. While we should not attribute human emotions to animals, it is correct to summize that horses can feel emotion, that they can pick up 'vibes' and react to a negative or positive environment. Trust and harmony form the basis of any relationship, and it is the same with horses. When these qualities are present, the relationship between horse and rider is capable of bringing much reward and pleasure.

horseback riding
Article Written By J. Foley

Handling And Understanding Your Horse

horseback riding

Handling And Understanding Your Horse by John Foley


If you've been taking regular riding lessons, you already have had some handling experience. Handling describes the activities you do with a horse while on the ground such as catching him, leading him and working around him. Its very important to learn correct handling for your own safety. Horses can be unpredictable, and even the quietest, most senseible horse can spook and run off. When a horse is upset, he will step on you or knock you over without a thought because his instinct is to escape whatever is upsetting him. This is why you should always be aware when your around a horse. Almost anything could happen. Understanding your horse's behavior helps you to know how to react if your horse acts badly or does something that seems strange. Here are a few things to consider : 1. Horses by nature are herd creatures. They like to be in the company of other horses. 2. Horses would rather run than fight. Running is their primary defense; that is why they spook or shy (jump or run away from a scary object) so much. If they spot something they think is dangerous, their natural reaction is to run away from it, a response that may have helped them to survive for millions of years. 3. Horses take their cues from other horses.If one horse becomes antsy, for example, in the warm-up arena at a show, it is likely that othera will catch on and act badly too. 4.Horses have remarkable memories. This can be good and bad. A good memory is a plus when you teach a horse a new task and he remembers it the next time. But if he has a bad experience such as a terrible ride in a trailer or a painful visit with the veterinarian, he will remember it for years.A horse's body language can tell you what he's feeling and help you predict what he's going to do. Accidents can be avoided if you pay close attention to your horse's body language. Here are some interpretations of horse body language : * Pinning his ears back means he feels angry or threatened. * Pawing with front hooves means he is impatient or hungry. * Swishing his tail violently means he is irritated or grumpy. * Swinging his hindquarters toward you means means he's afraid of you or he may kick. * Lifting a leg could mean he is preparing to kick. * Ears forward, head reaching toward you means he's interested in you. He may be asking, "Hey,do you have a treat for me ?" * Resting a hind leg could mean he is tired or simply feeling relaxed

horseback riding
Article Written J. Foley

Understanding The Horse's Senses

horseback riding
Understanding The Horse's Senses By J. Foley

In Today's Post I'll talk about "sight". One often hears remarks on a particular horse's beautiful or expressive eyes. Horses have the largest eyes of any land mammal, and their eyes convey different states of mind such as trust, uncertainty or fear. In common with most animals that are preyed upon, the horse's eyes are positioned on each side of its head, not the front, affording it a very wide field of vision. With a hugh field of peripheral vision available to it, the horse has only two 'blind spots'; one directly behind it and the other around six feet directly in front of or beneath its nose, where vision is out of focus, at the least. If you walk towards a horse; there comes a point where it can't focus on you, so it will turn its head away or back up until it can see you again. For example, when going to catch a horse from the field, the reaction described above could be interpreted as the horse not wanting to be caught, when in fact, if you approach from the side and the horse can keep you in sight, it will stand happily for you to reach it. If you stand behind a horse it will generally turn its whole body or head and neck to get a constant view, but a young or nervous horse can easily react with a warning kick to an intrusion it can't see.
Because of the particular position of its eyes, the horse needs to use its head and neck when reacting to visual stimuli. With the head held high it can't see the ground in front of it. If you watch a horse pick his way across rough ground, it will lower its head almost to the surface it is traversing.
A strange or unfamiliar object on the ground or in a hedge to its side, for example, will have the horse tilting its head to the side for a closer examination. If its 'alien' the horse will pass the oject with this sideways tilt of the head and a sideways step of the body. This forms the basis of 'shying' and in training it is important that the rider understands this impulse, and gives the young horse a chance to look at the object. If the reaction is punished, either by design or mistake when the rider becomes unbalanced and pulls on the reins, the horse rapidly learns to avoid such hazards in the future, which can be the foundation of a real problem.
It was once thought that horses were color blind, but evidence suggests the opposite-although horses seem to recognize yellows, greens and blues more easily than reds, purples and shades of gray.
Horses also have excellent long range vision(picture a horse in the field gazing at something the human eye can't see)and good night vision.

horseback riding by J. Foley

Horseback Riding - The "Feel"

horseback riding
The 'Feel" by John Foley
Feel is a word often talked about in riding circles. This "feel" is an essential component of an harmonious and confident relationship between a horse and rider. While it comes easily to some, it is a fallacy to think you can never achieve it - with practice you can.
Feel is really the ability to judge the cause and effect of the horse's reaction to the rider. Examples are being able to give as the horse responds; being able to spot potential problems and deal with them before they become an issue; and being able to tell whether a horse is simply being disobedient or is just nervous. A lot of this comes with experience.
A well trained horse is the best professor of feel as it will teach a rider, literally, how good it feels when he or she gets it right. A good instructor will always communicate the idea to his pupil by asking, "How did that feel ?" The novice rider has to go through something of a learning curve of trial and error to find out what it takes to make it feel right and how then to achieve it consistently in the future.
If you look at a very good horse and rider combination at work, it almost seems as if the rider is doing nothing, while the horse looks happy, balanced, performs with brilliance and is in complete harmony with the rider, who will feel as if he or she only has to think and the horse reacts. It takes a combination of attributes, one of which is good training of both halves of the combination, to achieve this "state of grace". Feel in a rider can be described as a mix of concentration, quick reactions, sensitivity, adaptability and a feeling for rhythm and movement, with the added ingredient of a relaxed and sympathetic attitude.
Riding is really the art of communicating between a willing horse and a sympathetic rider. It is never a matter of force.Instead finesse, skill, training and coordination result in perfect partnership and harmony.

horseback riding by J. Foley

English Versus Western Style Riding

horseback riding

English Versus Western Style Riding By J. Foley
So, you want to learn how to ride a horse, but then you found out that there are two different types of horseback riding, English and Western. Now, you need to choose the right one for you, but are they really that different? Is one better than the other?

Actually, English and Western riding really are pretty different in many ways, but they are very similar in at least one way. Both styles of riding involve a lot of practice if you plan to ride your horse in competitions. However, if you want to learn to be a competent enough rider to ride for pleasure fairly quickly, you may want to consider Western riding. This more relaxed riding style is usually easier for the complete beginner to pick up.

If you are interested in learning to jump with your horse or learning dressage, then you will need to learn the English style of riding. If you want to learn to barrel race or compete in the rodeo, then you should learn the Western style of riding. Endurance and eventing competitions are also Western.

However, if you just want to eventually compete and aren't sure exactly what you want to compete in, which style should you learn? Think about your personality. Are you easy going and relaxed? Do you have trouble sitting straight in a chair? Does the thought of wearing anything dressier than jeans make you break out in hives? If so, then you should really consider Western riding. This style is definitely more relaxed and riders are expected to actually lean back a bit while they are riding. Even better, riders are actually supposed to wear jeans, when they are competing in events. On the other hand, if you are the type of person who loves to dress up in formal wear and you always seem to have perfect posture, then you may want to try riding in the English style, instead.

Of course, besides your posture in the saddle and the clothes you wear, there are other differences between the two riding styles. English style riders hold the bridle reins in both hands, while Western riders hold the reins in one hand. Also, English style riders have much shorter stirrups than Western riders.

While Western riding is basically the same no matter what events you are competing in, the English style has several distinct variations. When you begin riding, you will need to decide between the hunt seat style and the saddle seat style. If you want to compete in jumping competitions, you should opt for hunt seat style. If you just want to ride your horse on the trail or you want to compete in saddle seat shows, you will want to learn using the saddle seat style. As you advance, you may opt to switch to dressage.

Finally, no matter which riding style you choose, you should be sure that you wear the proper protective equipment. While most English riders routinely wear helmets, many Western style riders wear cowboy hats instead. The hats certainly look more stylish, but do not provide protection if you fall off your horse. At the very least, you should wear a helmet while you are practicing.

horseback riding by J. Foley

Horse Riding Safety

horseback riding

Horse Riding Safety
by Teresa Hughes

Horse riding can be a safe and extremely rewarding hobby when the rider takes steps to minimize risks. As with any of the most enjoyable activities in life, it is impossible to eliminate all risks. But, by educating yourself to equestrian safety, the possibility of injury can be greatly reduced.

Match Horse to Rider Ability - Throughout our riding careers our skills are constantly improving. Novice riders need to stick with calmer, more experienced horses until the necessary riding skills are achieved. If you wonder that you may be “over mounted,” you probably are. Consult with a riding instructor BEFORE purchasing a horse. She/he will help you find a horse that is matched to your current skill level.

Professional Instruction - Inexperienced riders should get lessons from a professional. Riding lessons can be somewhat expensive, but well worth it for increased riding safety. You can reduce the cost by finding a lesson partner on your own skill level. Many instructors offer reduced rates for groups of two or more students.

Always Wear A Helmet - Always wear a properly fitted ASTM/SEI certified equestrian riding helmet. Equestrian helmets are different than bicycle helmets, as they are designed for impact to the back of the head, as opposed to front or side injuries which bicycle helmets are designed for. The majority of head injuries from horse riding accidents are to the back of the head.

Check Your Tack Regularly - Make it a habit to give your tack a thorough safety check every few weeks. Look for worn leather and fabric and rust and pay particular attention to fasteners, such as Chicago screws. This is also a good time to recheck that the bit is fitting properly. There should be no space between the bit and the corner of the mouth and no more than two creases in the corner of the mouth. Bit fit can change as leather expands and contracts over time.

Stirrup Safety - Wear a boot with a good heel to keep your foot from slipping through the stirrups. Not being able to get your foot free during a mishap is a terrifying experience and can result in the rider being dragged. As an additional precaution, you can prevent dragging accidents by using a safety stirrup, such as peacock stirrups, break away stirrups or Toe Stoppers. Toe Stoppers are a stirrup attachment that prevent the foot from slipping through that can be fitted to any stirrup style.

Stay Alert - It’s easy when you're plodding along, chatting to your riding buddies on a beautiful day on the trail to forget you’re supposed to be actively” riding” your horse. You may become a bit of a back seat passenger. This can be very dangerous as your reaction time will be delayed by critical seconds. Stay alert and attentive at all times while riding. Not tense - but constantly aware of the environment - your riding surface, your peripheral vision, your distance in relationship to other riders, your horses responses to your cues -- much as you would (or should be) while driving.

Trail Riding Safety - By following a few safety and etiquette rules, trail riding can be a safe and fun way to see our beautiful country .

Never ride alone. Ride with someone you know to be experienced and thoughtful.

Take your cell phone.

Wait until all riders are mounted to move off.

If you could be returning after dark, wear reflective clothing and take a small flash light.

Horses prone to kicking should wear a red ribbon on their tails.

Keep at least one horse length between you and the horse in front.

In larger groups, elect someone who knows the trails as trail boss. The trail boss knows the trails, maintains the pace and is considerate of others when increasing speed.

Do not pass the trail boss.

When riding during hunting season, make lots of noise and wear visible clothing such as a fluorescent vest. Using rhythm beads on your horse is a good way to alert hunters that you are NOT a deer.

A pen knife and baling twine can be very useful for emergency tack repairs.

Take a hoof pick.

Do not leave the trail. Holes and unsafe surfaces, sharp objects and hornets nests may exist in unknown areas such as open fields.

Practicing safe riding principles can mean many years of happy, healthy riding enjoyment for you and your horse.

Have fun and stay safe!

-------------------------------

Teresa Hughes has over 20 years experience as an equestrian and trains her own horses. She's loved horses from her earliest childhood memories and begged her parents until she finally got her first pony when she was twelve. After several years of being away from horses to raise a family, she was horrified to discover (although all the passion was still there) the confidence she'd enjoyed in her younger years was gone. After much trial and error, she has found her way back to enjoying her horses again as she did as a child and is not only riding, but starting colts as well. She shares on her website, Positively Riding!, the methods that were beneficial for her in overcoming fear. She hopes to help others, experiencing lack of confidence issues, to find a shorter path back to enjoying their horses.

Contact info:

Teresa Hughes, Owner
Positively Riding!
www.positivelyriding.com

riderconfidence@hotmail.com

horseback riding by J. Foley

Picking Up Your Horse's Hoof

horseback riding
Picking Up Your Horse's Hoof
The idea of picking up a horse's hooves can intimidate some owners since a well-placed horse kick would really hurt! Such caution is good, but in reality if you pick up a horse's hoof properly you provide him with no leverage or ability to kick you. This is a situation where a person's worst fears can cause him to imagine an incident that is highly unlikely to occur with careful handling.

Here's how to safely pick up a horse's hoof:

Starting with the front hoof, approach your horse diagonally from his front so that he clearly knows you are there ? you don't want to surprise him. Place yourself even with his shoulder and make sure to face his rear; you will both be facing opposite directions during the hoof picking process.

Making sure that your feet aren't too close to the horse's hoof, start running the hand parallel to him down his shoulder and along the length of his leg, finally stopping just above his ankle. Gently grasp the ankle portion and click (or otherwise verbally cue him) to ask him to raise his leg. If he's well trained, that small cue will be more than enough and he'll do just what you requested. You're now free to begin picking his hoof.

If your horse is being a bit stubborn or hasn't learned how to pick up his legs yet try leaning into his shoulder as you run your hand down the back of his cannon bone. You can also gently squeeze/pinch the tendons to further cue him to what you would like. As you perform these physical cues make sure you provide a verbal one also (I make a clicking sound) so the horse later associates your sound with the requested response. Increase the weight you push against his shoulder until he finally lifts his leg as requested.

When picking a horse's hoof you want to remove all debris from the hoof clefts as well as the rim and frog. Be careful around the frog because it can sometimes be a bit sensitive, particularly if the horse has thrush.

Once you have finished cleaning the front hoof carefully guide it back to the floor; you don't want to allow the horse to slam it, potentially hitting your foot in the process. Praise your horse and pat him on the front shoulder a bit so he understands that you are pleased with his cooperation, then run your hand along his back to his rear leg. Place yourself in the same position as you did with his front leg and do the process over again.

There is a slight difference between lifting a rear foot and front foot, even though your basic positioning and actions are nearly identical. When you lift your horse's rear foot he will probably give a little jerk that you might misinterpret as a kick. This is a common reflex reaction among horses and nothing for you to worry about.

Secondly, when you raise your horse's rear leg you'll want to step into him a bit so that your hip is underneath his leg. Rest his leg on your thigh, grab his hoof and gently flex it upwards. By doing this you lend him some support and more importantly the position of his leg and his flexed hoof will prevent him from being able to kick you.

Clean the hoof, lower it cautiously as you did the first and praise him. Congratulations ? you're halfway done! The opposite side will be done exactly the same way, but try to return to his front and start the opposite side rather than move around his rear. It's bad practice to approach or circle all but the most trusted horses via the rear in such close quarters since a horse would be within range to strike.

When lifting any hoof try to make sure your horse is properly squared (balanced evenly on all four legs) so that when you lift one hoof he can easily balance on his remaining three. At no time should the horse actually lean his weight on you! Even when you rest his rear leg on your thigh you're not allowing him to use you as a crutch.

Once you have picked your horse's hooves a few times it will probably become very simple and take less than 5 minutes to clear all hooves. Most trained horses will raise their hoof for you the moment they feel your leg run down their leg.

It is a very good idea to control your horse's head while you are picking his hooves. This can be done by attaching his halter to crossties or asking a partner hold your horse's head. By controlling his head you ensure your horse can't move away from you while you're trying to pick his hooves, or worse? turn around and take a bite at your rear!

Jeffrey Rolo, owner of AlphaHorse and an experienced horse trainer and breeder, is the author of the above article. You will find many other informational articles dealing with horse training and care as well as games and other horse fun on his website: http://www.alphahorse.com.

horseback riding by J. Foley

A Review Of "Introduction To Horseback Riding"

horseback riding
A Review Of "Introduction To Horseback Riding"
If you are just starting out with horseback riding, you want to focus on the information you need to get you in the saddle and to keep you safe as you ride. And lets face it, when we are learning something new it is so difficult to take in all the information we are given verbally. If you have it written down, and can read it through several times before you get to the first lesson, how much better would that make you feel? Wouldn’t it be great to be able to take in the information because it is familiar to you – so that you can concentrate on staying in the saddle rather than the info that’s being thrust at you!
This book will not waste your time or money - it is designed to get you horseback riding as quickly, safely, and inexpensively as possible. You will learn the practical information that you really need to ride. No gimmicks, no filler, no fluff. These are the horse facts and riding tips that every rider really needs - in one inexpensive and easy-to-read manual.
With this ebook, you will start reaping the benefits of horseback riding fast. With "Introduction to Horseback Riding" you will be able to quickly get the many benefits of riding, which include:

The ability to see nature in a whole new way - riding on a horse allows you to cover larger areas of wilderness and see it from a whole new perspective.


Enjoying vacations on a whole new level - just imagine being able to take a moonlit horseback ride on a beach on your next trip!


Weight loss and better physical tone - Horseback riding is an excellent exercising, gently toning your whole body, and especially building muscle tone in your legs.


Stress reduction - Many horseback riding enthusiasts find that "getting away from it all" while horseback riding and spending time with a horse melts away tension and daily stress like magic. Horseback riding can improve your whole outlook.


Meeting other people - Horseback riders really are a tribe, and once you begin riding you will find many people on horse trails and trail rides to talk to.


Solitude - Some horse riders find that they like going on quieter rides, allowing themselves to think and reflect. Horseback riding can be a quiet, meditative time with you and nature, or it can be a fun group outing - the choice is up to you!


Relatively inexpensive - You can rent a horse and many of the accessories you need to. Once you learn the basics of horseback riding, you will be surprised at how inexpensive the activity really can be.


Relatively easy to learn - Horseback riding does not have to be complicated or hard - learn how simple a few basic riding skills can be with the "Introduction to Horseback Riding" ebook!


Puts you in contact with animals - Few other sports allow you the chance to spend time with an animal, and horses can be a fascinating animal to get to know. Known for their loyalty, intelligence, and gentleness, horses are a wonderful animal to spend time interacting with.


Acts as a gateway to other sports and activities - Polo, trail rides, horse racing, trips to a dude ranch, dressage, rodeo riding, and fox hunting are only a few of the activities that require good horse skills. Learning to ride a horse can open a whole new world of adventure for you!


Builds confidence and discipline - As you learn the skills of horseback riding, you will be learning to communicate with an animal and learning to control the movements of your body in a precise way. This will help you build discipline. As you learn horseback riding tips and tricks, you will gain the confidence you need to ride with grace and ease.


Gain freedom and a sense of fun and passion in your life - Just imagine the wind through your hair as you race through a field or through a wood. Horseback riding is a wonderful way to add real excitement and adventure to your life. Once you try it, you will see why so many millions of people have adopted this exercise.

Check in the LINK section of this blog for your copy.

horseback riding by J. Foley

Recipes For Riding

horseback riding
Recipes for Riding
by Ron Meredith

A new student recently told me he was diligently taking notes, carefully describing the corridor of pressures that create each a specific shape we ask horses to take when we are riding. He planned to take all his class notes and develop them into a book. Then, he figured, people could read the book, know exactly what combination of pressures created what shapes, and every movement they wanted to get would just happen like magic when they rode. It would finally make riding simple and easy.

Since any instructor or trainer welcomes initiative and forward motion that can be molded into the activity they want, I didn't say anything. I just let him go on thinking that was going to work. I knew that before long he'd be back, scratching his head and wondering why it didn't.

One of the things I knew he was going to find out was that while a corridor of basic pressures creates the feeling of a specific shape in the horse, how the horse expresses that shape depends on a whole lot of other factors that are not as easy to describe on paper as a specific combination of seat, hand, and leg.

At one level, it's kind of like recipes. I can tell you that if you mix milk, eggs, and sugar together you can make a pudding. Someone else could take that same milk, eggs, and sugar and turn them into a custard or a soufflé. There's more to the end result than just the ingredients alone.

In our theory classes here at Meredith Manor, the students get sheets of "pictograms" that show how the seat, legs, and hands are holding, driving, steadying or keeping, and so on for different shapes and gaits. One thing that sheet quickly shows a student is that sometimes the same corridor of aids can have multiple meanings to the horse.

Mechanically speaking, for example, the corridor of pressures used for a figure of eight at a walk, trot, or canter are the same. But practically speaking, the corridor feels different to the horse depending on the rider's ability to co-ordinate the whole corridor and to apply those individual pressures in it so they influence the shape of the horse's body, the direction, the rhythm and the pace. That's a whole lot of shades of meaning and those come from:

the rider's level of understanding,
the horse's level of understanding,
the horse's "vocabulary" of nuances at this point,
the rider's "vocabulary" of nuances at this point,
the rider's fitness level,
the horse's fitness level,
the rider's level of relaxation,
the horse's level of relaxation,
the horse's rhythm,
the rider's ability to follow that rhythm,
the rider's ability to influence or modify that rhythm.
People are always looking for recipes that will help them create a particular activity in their horses. They e-mail trainers or write letters to the editors of magazines hoping to find some specific sequence of actions or steps that will always create a given result. But even though the sequence might be the same, how each segment of it is applied is going to be slightly different for every horse and rider combination. What works for one horse may not do anything for the next one, not because the sequence was wrong, but because the horses were different or the people applying the sequence were different or because either the horses or the people didn't have enough understanding of each part of the sequence to apply it or they didn't understand the whole thing correctly in the first place.

The good riders and trainers know that riding is not about mechanically applying a particular set of aids. They understand that since shades of meaning can change continually for a whole range of reasons, they can never quit riding when they are in the saddle. They must ride every stride mentally and physically. They ask the horse for a stride. Then, based on feedback from the horse's response to that asking, they may ask for the next stride by applying the same corridor of pressures exactly the same way. Or they may modify one part of the corridor of pressures to show the horse what is being asked more clearly. Or the horse's response to the asking may have developed to a point of sophistication that all the trainer has to do is sit there and let the response happen stride after stride after stride until it is time to ask the horse to change the shape. That allowing, however, is not the same as quitting or letting the horse have its own way. It's still a conscious decision from stride to stride, made with the trainer's full attention on the horse.

Every single horse and rider combination will ride a specific corridor of pressures differently depending on how much each of them knows that day, how well each can mentally focus that day, how each one physically feels that day, and all of those other things. That's both the challenge and the fun of working with horses. And it means that no matter how many horses you've ever worked with, you never stop learning.

horseback riding by J. Foley