Equestrian
This column is devoted to equestrian enthusiasts of all ages and disciplines, from those just wanting to get into the sport of riding to those already competing, who are looking for tips from one of the top trainers in the middle Tennessee area to help them succeed with their career with horses.
The equestrian columns have been prepared by Roger Van Doren.
So you want to ride a horse So you think you like horses and want to give riding a shot? The first step is to determine which discipline interests you, English or Western...
Finding a trainer - Part 1
Be aware one trainer can’t teach you all you want to know; there’s too much specialty in the sport.
Finding a trainer - Part 2 Do you want to learn to jump a horse?
Finding a trainer - Part 3 In making your final choice for a trainer and riding facility, check out the USEF (United States Equestrian Federation) website at www.usef.org. The USEF offers a complete information source to you a better idea of what goes on and the people in the sport.
Getting started with the basics - Part 1 Now that you’re informed and ready to ride, you’ll need a few necessary pieces of equipment.
Getting started with the basics - Part 2 Safety should come first in approaching any equestrian endeavor.
Getting started with the basics - Part 3 When leading your horse, let him walk beside you, not behind or in front of you. Do not loop the lead rope around your hands or arm.
A little etiquette goes a long way
Riding is a fun sport; however safety is very important, so think logically.
The first lesson - mounting and dismounting Mounting and dismounting are not really a big lesson, but it’s better to practice both safely.
Horse, saddle, action! The walk You’re now in the saddle! Make sure you are sitting properly, that is that you are sitting in the middle of the saddle sitting upright with your legs under you, your heals are down and your feet are in the stirrups correctly.
More walking When you start walking, it will feel like a swaying kind of motion from side to side -this is because the gait is a four-step gait, in other words the horse moves each leg in turn and places each foot on the ground individually.
The trot The trot is a two gaited movement, meaning that the horse moves its legs in pairs left front and right back together and right front and left back together.
More trotting You need to practice this a lot and it will come to you quickly.
The canter The canter is a three time gait; the horse places one leg and then the two diagonal pair and the remaining leg on the ground, sounds confusing but that’s how it is.
The canter and gallop Know how to get into a comfortable position of balance - if you’re cantering and sitting down for the first time this could be very challenging.
The cool down So now you’ve galloped in the fields and pulled a Kevin Costner (standing in the stirrup at a gallop with the wind blowing through you hair) and are in love with life, yourself and your new best friend, your horse!