Horseback Riding For Beginners: Our Expert Tips!
Horseback riding will give you a thrilling time; all ages and skill levels can enjoy it. Still, it may feel daunting to try it out if you don’t know how to do it. At Touch of Chrome Paints, we have experienced guides that want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable ride.
Because of that, we’ve put together our expert tips and advice on all the horseback riding basics to get you started. See which of these are below!
Start With the Right Foot: Before Riding
Horseback riding for beginners is an exciting activity, but it does require preparation and getting used to it. Our guides stay with you at all moments, but still, be patient with yourself and the horse to build a trusting relationship.
Additionally, if you’re a first-time rider, it’s natural to have questions and want to prepare yourself for the exciting adventure ahead. Here are some of our best horseback riding beginner tips to kick off:
Wear the Right Clothes
Mounting a Horse Adequately
- Check that your girth is snug enough to prevent the saddle from slipping when you attempt to get on.
- Begin by standing on the left side of your horse, as it’s customary to work from this side.
- Hold the reins in your left hand, just in front of the saddle, keeping them loose.
- Next, place your left foot in the stirrup with the ball of your foot on the stirrup. Use your left foot to step up into a standing position with your right leg next to your left.
- Carefully swing your right leg over the horse’s rump without accidentally kicking them. Gently sit down in the saddle.
- Finally, put your right foot in the other stirrup, ensuring that the ball of your foot is centered on it.
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Ride Your Horse
Sit tall, maintain a straightforward head, and look between your horse’s ears instead of the ground. Avoid repeatedly squeezing with your legs once the horse is walking, keeping your legs long, still, and the weight firmly in your heels. Always listen to your guide’s instructions on steering with your reins and legs: toes up and heels down.
How to Turn Your Horse
How to Stop Your Horse
First, ensure you’re steady in the saddle by sinking your weight into the seat and firming up your legs. Hold onto the horn or front of the saddle if needed for extra support. Let your horse know you’d like to slow down by saying “Whoa” in a normal tone, avoiding yelling since you’re close to their ears. Pull back gently on the reins like a rope until he slows down or stops, and then release your pull back to a loose rein. Your horse is working off the pressure in his mouth to know when you want to stop or slow down.
Relax and Have Fun With Expert Guides!
The thought of horseback riding for beginners may feel intimidating. Yet, it is a fun experience that you and your family will likely remember for years, especially if you have children who are welcome to ride at our ranch.
Choosing the place where you want to go horseback riding is also important, which is why here at Touch of Chrome Paints, we make sure to provide all our clients of all skill levels with a wonderful experience through the following:
- Well-trained horses
- Experienced guides at all times (you will always receive instructions followed by a demonstration on how to handle the horse)
With us and our friendly horses, you can relax when putting your trust in us, making for an excellent first horse ride! Book the best trail rides in Fort Worth, Texas, with us today!