| Horseback riding is a wonderful leisure activity for the | | | | scare and cause the horse to halt, go off trail, or even |
| young and old. Horseback riding is a beautiful, relaxing | | | | buck you off. |
| and enjoyable sport as long as you are confident that | | | | 6. Always stay one horse length away from the horse |
| you know what you are doing. There are many | | | | in front of you and stay in a single file line. Being too |
| horseback riding tips to take into consideration before | | | | close to the horse ahead of you could cause it to |
| riding any trails. | | | | become scared and kick at your horse. The horse will |
| 1. Make sure you pick a horse that will correspond with | | | | think it is going to get stepped on or trampled and out |
| your riding skill level. Ask your riding instructor to help | | | | of instinct will kick backwards if its personal space is |
| you in choosing the right horse for you. | | | | invaded. |
| 2. Before leaving the stables double check all of your | | | | 7. Always be relaxed and confident while riding the |
| equipment to assure it is all in working condition and | | | | horse. Horses are very smart animals and can sense |
| properly placed on the horse you are riding. | | | | your emotions. |
| 3. Never ride alone. You should always ride with a | | | | 8. Be sure to pay attention to your leader and follow |
| buddy so if anything happens to you or your horse | | | | everything he or she tells you. They are trying to make |
| you know there will always be help there or someone | | | | your horseback riding experience memorable and safe |
| to get you help. | | | | for you. |
| 4. Always wear proper gear. This includes proper | | | | 9. Never wander off the trail. You could encounter wild |
| boots that will not get stuck in the stirrups in case you | | | | animals or treacherous terrain which you may not |
| need to get your feet out of them quickly. Also always | | | | know how to handle. All trails are clearly marked and |
| have a protective head covering on. A helmet will not | | | | wondering off of them puts both you and your horse |
| only help in case of a fall but you may encounter falling | | | | in danger. |
| rocks or trees along some trails. Also wear long pants | | | | 10. Do not yell or scream while you are saddled on the |
| and a long shirt to protect from bugs and ticks that | | | | horse. This can cause the horse to get confused and |
| you will encounter on your ride. | | | | scared and hurt you or the horse. |
| 5. Do not bring anything on your ride that is large or | | | | If you follow all of these horseback riding tips you will |
| loose because if it falls it could give your horse quite a | | | | be sure to have a safe and enjoyable experience. |