What should I expect when riding a horse for only the second time in my life?

1. 86

   Express10posted 12 years ago

   What should I expect when riding a horse for only the second time in my life?
   
   I have only ridden a horse once before and the horse was being led by it's owner while I was on it. What can I do to help make the horse feel comfortable?

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2. 61

   duffsmomposted 12 years ago

   Horseback riding can be a very enjoyable, safe thing or a very dangerous thing. You need to be sure what kind of horse you are on.  Some horses are unshakable, others tend to sense beginners and will take off or toy with you.
   
   Here's a couple of little tips.  Never hold on to the saddle horn, instead if needed grip the back of the saddle seat. 
   
   Do not squeeze the horse with our legs, that often signals the horse to move faster.  Instead, with your feet in the stirrups, drops your heels down (with toes up) like you are fighting off a calf cramp. It drives your backside further down into the seat.
   
   Ride with very quiet hands, don't pull on the horses mouth, or shorten the reins.  Ride with your hands quietly in front of you until needed.
   
   Good luck and have fun--your calm attitude can go a long way with keeping the horse quiet.

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3. 61

   monaleasaposted 11 years ago

   Congratulations on riding a horse.  It's one of the most exciting and fun things you can do to relax and enjoy.
   
   To answer your question about making the horse feel more comfortable when you ride, you have to be comfortable yourself.
   
   All animals have the ability to sense how you feel when they come close to you, so if your up-tight, concerned, upset, nervous, stressed out, happy, in a funny mood, etc, they will pickup on it.  And they react in a similar manner.
   
   It's understandable that you will be a little nervous, but just try to relax and "go with the flow".  Most horses who have been trained and are comfortable with people will not intentionally want to hurt anyone.  If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe around a particular horse, don't get on him.  Just give him a pat on the neck and move away.  Find one that you feel more connected too.
   
   Most horses are willing partners on a ride.  If you have to fight with a horse to try to enjoy the experience, then you have the wrong horse. 
   
   Like anything else in life, it takes time and patience to build a relationship and it's the little steps along the way that make the biggest strides. 
   
   So, the next time you ride, first put a smile on your face and in your heart, relax and enjoy what the horse has to offer.  He will feel it too.
   
   Cheers....

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