Riding:Part1

Horseback riding is super fun. Here, are the basics of riding. After you tack up your horse you have to lead him into the arena. Check your girth and make sure it's tight and the saddle does not move. If you aren't sure tighten it as much as you can and have your instructor or someone experienced check it for you. Next you want to run your stirrups down. If you don't know their length you could estimate with the length of your arm and putting your fist where the stirrup straps start then adjusting them so the end touches your arm pit. After you adjust your stirrups and tighten your girth it's time to get on. Lead your horse to a mounting block if you don't know how to mount. Climb up onto the mounting block and stick your foot in the stirrup. Next swing your other leg over the horse, and sit gently on his back. Make sure your well seated and gently squeeze your calves against the horse's sides to make him go forward. Keep your heels down and legs turned inward so your whole leg has contact on the horse and keeps you in a secure position. Also remember to keep your hands down and your torso straight up. If you need to slow down squeeze with your thighs and lean back also you could pull back on the reins but these shouldn't be depended on. You should depend on your legs. To go faster squeeze with your calves. These are basics of riding next week I'll tell u how to turn and elaborate on the different gates/ speeds.