Horses have been an integral part of American life for centuries. They have been used as work animals on farms and ranches, pack animals alongside mules, sporting animals, and a primary means of transportation when ridden singly in saddles or used to pull a cart or coach. Today, while horses are still used in many of those ways, by far the most popular reason to own horses is for the purpose of pleasure riding. Many lovers of horses like nothing better than to climb into their saddles and go for a walk, jog or gallop with their favorite mount beneath them. If you are new to the hobby or riding horses, here抯 an overview of the first things you抣l learn about getting on a horse. It is highly recommended that you take riding lessons from a qualified instructor before riding. The purpose here is to give you an idea of what to expect. While we see cowboys throw on their saddles, hop on, and take off, it may not be as easy as they make it look.
First of all, you will need to choose a horse that is right for you. Size is important, but so is the horse抯 temperament. It is essential that your first experiences in saddles employ gentle horse that are used to beginner riders.
Secondly, you抣l be given instruction about the equipment used for riding horses, also called tack. Saddles are the most notable part of tack, but it includes bridals, bits, reins, and more. You抣l learn what each part of the equipment is used for, and how to put it on the horse properly and securely.
While you might be eager to ride, you抣l first have to learn how to mount up. To begin with, you抣l be instructed to mount from the left side always. This is done because horses are trained this way, so that they know what to expect. Because types of saddles vary in size and shape, you抣l have to learn the nuances of getting your right leg up and over the horse. At this point it is important to see if the saddles stirrups are set at the right length. Your feet should rest comfortably in them, with some flex, which will allow you to move with the horse抯 gait. Western saddles are very different than English saddles. Each produces different ride characteristics, and you抣l be given instructions on how to 搒it?each of these saddles for comfort, safety, and proper movement.
Once you are on, the fun begins. Learn slowly, take your time, and as they say, don抰 try to run before you can walk. You抣l find those saddles don抰 hold you in, and a horse on the run can be tough to hang onto if you haven抰 learned all the basics, first.
