Riding

Horse Riding Games are an Important Training Tool

If you are planning on purchasing a horse for your child, you may want to get them riding lessons so that they can know how to seat a horse. While it may seem easy to learn to ride, certain styles can be more difficult than others. A child can learn quite easily when the trainer incorporates horse riding games into the training schedule. These games can actually make it easier for the child to learn how to be a confident rider. The child is going to eventually become an equestrian by playing riding horse games.

Some of these games can even be played without a trainer when the parent is working with the child. It is not always possible to have a trainer on site every day. For this reason, they are going to teach the parents the games to get the children more interested in learning how to put the horse through the paces that are needed for shows or competitions. Not only do the children love to play a horse riding game, but the horses are going to have a great time as well. The most important thing is for both the horse and the rider to have fun while training at the same time.

If either gets bored, the steps can become sloppy and the unfortunate side effect is that there can be injuries to either the horse or the rider. These games do not only have to be played by children, any novice rider can employ them in their everyday riding. This can create a better bond between the horse and the rider. It is vital that the horse trust the rider as much as the rider needs to trust the horse. This bond is very important whenever a new horse in introduced to a rider or a new rider is introduced to a horse.

There are many horse riding games to play. One game that is familiar to many is musical chairs. This can also be played with horses. All you need is an area large enough to encompass all of the horses that are going to be playing. Create separate spaces that the horses can go to where there is one horse left over. You can use temporary enclosures to do this. This game teaches the riders and the horse to move into tight places on just a command. There are going to be verbal commands that are given.

When the music stops, the horses are guided into the designated area. When the commands are given, the rider is going to have to make the horse follow those instructions. Those who do not or cannot make the horse follow those commands can be disqualified. For new riders, this is not an issue. This aspect of the game is only for those who have had some lessons and who know how to put their horses on to these tasks. This is one of the most popular horse riding games for kids.

Another of the great horse riding games to play is the boot game. This is a game that is going to help to teach the rider and the horse some dexterity. There are going to be boots that are placed on posts inside the corral. The horses and riders are going to be separated into teams. Depending on the skill of the rider, they are going to either canter or trot to the posts with the boot and then back again to the center where a bucket or can is placed where the boots can be dropped into.

This is the easiest of all the horse back riding games. The team that gets the most boots in the bucket faster than any other team is going to be declared the winner. Another of the fun horse riding games is the old standard “red light green light” and is played in exactly the same way. This game teaches the riders to stop the horse quickly and on command. The basic rules apply, there is going to be one person who yells out red light. All horses must be stopped when this command is called. When the green light command is given, the horses can move again. The rider who makes it to the marker first without having a moving horse on the stop command wins.

All of these horse riding games are going to be fun for the horse and the rider and is not going to cause them any harm. There should never be any distress from the horse or the rider when playing horse riding games. They should be fun and should teach the riders more about controlling their animal. If you do not have a trainer who can teach the novice rider, then you can create even more horse riding games to help the rider and the horse learn what is expected of them.

The Many Types of Riding Boots

Those who love horses and who are going to start riding need to have some equipment first. The first item that is needed is riding boots. These boots are important protection for the feet and legs when on a horse. There are many types of boots that can be chosen from and knowing their unique properties is going to help you to choose the right pair. It is also important to know what riding style that you plan on doing before purchasing your boots.

There are two different basic riding styles and the riding boot that goes with each style is going to be very different as well. The two basic riding styles are English Equestrian and Western. The boots that are worn for each riding style can be broken down into categories as well. There are boots that are required for competition and boots that are worn when cleaning out stalls and everything in between. You are going to want to purchase more than one pair of riding boots for each task.

English Equestrian boots are one of the most commonly known types of this style riding. They are tall black boots that come to just under the knee. They are used for shows and competitions. These boots have a low heel and protect the ankles and calves when jumping or going through bush. English riding boots are made of leather and are typically black in color. Many boot makers replicate this style for fashion boots which is why they are very common to most who do not ride horses. These come in both mens riding boots and women’s riding boots. Ariat riding boots are a good choice when it comes to choosing the English Equestrian boots.

Included in the English style of boots is not only the long riding boots, but shorter boots as well. These are called Jodhpur and paddock boots. Jodhpur boots offer a bit more flexibility than the Equestrian boots offer. They are worn with a special pair of trousers that can be zipped up over the boots to offer more protection for the legs. While the protection is not the same as it would be with Equestrian boots, there is still protection for the ankles from the boots. Paddock boots are typically made of rubber and rubber riding boots can also be worn in place of paddock boots. These boots are typically used when cleaning out the stalls and riding in the rain.

Western boots come in two basic styles. These styles are mountain horse riding boots and western show boots. They are commonly called cowboy boots and are very popular even for those who do not ride horses. The materials used for making these boots can range from the basic cow leather to more exotic styles such as ostrich and snake skin. Many who purchase these exotic styles do not wear them for casual riding. They are used for show or for going out rather than riding. The reason for this is because these exotic boots are quite expensive and riding can damage them.

One of the great things about western boots is that they can be purchased in many different colors. The most popular of all the colors is brown riding boots. These are popular because they go with just about any color of outfit that is worn while riding. Most who ride in rodeos prefer this color as it does not show the dirt as much. Others may want to choose colors to match their outfits. Barrel racers tend to wear bright colors when racing. Their boots are going to match their outfits. Women are typically known to do this type of racing and that is why colored womens riding boots are the most popular of the western riding boots.

The main difference in the types of western boots is the height of them. They are made to come above the calf and just under the knee. They also come to mid calf. The taller boots are used for protection when riding in the brush. They protect the calf up to the knee and were originally made for cowboys who needed protection from the horns of the cattle that they were herding. Today, they are still used for this reason, but during riding shows, they are more ornate and can be quite beautiful as well. The heels on both styles are going to be between an inch and an inch and a half to help keep the boots in the stirrups.

Once a rider has decided on the style that they want to perfect, they can then choose the right boots to go with it. Shopping for boots can be fun when there are so many choices to make. It is always wise to make sure that there is an extra pair for those times when the main pair of boots is worn out. It is always a good idea to have an old pair or a rubber pair when mucking out stalls or riding in bad weather.

Filed Under: Equipment, Horse Products, Riding Tagged With: ariat riding boots, brown riding boots, english riding boots, long riding boots, mens riding boots, mountain horse riding boots, riding boot, rubber riding boots, women's riding boots

Selecting the Right Equestrian Riding Boots for You and Your Family

Finding the right equestrian riding boots can be done quite easily with an online search and a few minutes of your time. Whether it is just you or the entire family that needs to be outfitted, you are sure to find a style that each of you likes at a price that is well within your budget. There are many manufacturers to choose from and the Internet brings the entire world of equestrian style riding boots right to your home for the easiest shopping you will do all year.

A proper pair of equestrian riding boots is a tall set of boots fitted not only to the foot, but up the leg as well. The form fitting of a boot to the leg is essential as this part of the leg is where the horse receives its signals from the rider. A loose topped boot will tend to give possible false signals which could mean disaster if in the middle of a show or presentation and this is easily avoided by selecting the correct boot for your build. If you have difficulty finding ones that are a snug enough fit there are many custom boot makers online to assist you in getting the correct boot for you.

There are two basic styles of the equestrian riding boot. The one is the traditional plain front pull on boot which has no laces or zippers, these are mainly for dressage or show and the lace front or zippered back field style boots. These boots are particularly suited to the field showings for hunter/jumper class events and are built to withstand the rigors of a three day show with no issues whatsoever. When using the pull on boots, having a boot jack and boot pulls handy is a very good idea for taking them off and putting them on. This aids in reducing any possible creasing or damage to the boots.

Men’s equestrian riding boots are available in a wide variety of styles from many manufacturers and suppliers. Ranging from tall riding boots to paddock boots for working around the stable, you are sure to find ones that suit you. Mens equestrian riding boots tend to be made a bit wider in the foot area than the women’s equestrian riding boots. This lends itself towards a much more comfortable fit without losing any of the style up the leg.

Women’s riding boots are a bit more colorful and stylish than the men’s counterpart. These allow for a bit of straying from the traditional stodgy black, plain front boot and allow the women to have a bit more flair when gearing up for a show. They are available in a wide range of colors to choose from and guaranteed to match any show outfit that can be thought of, which is sure to please the horse woman in your life.

While used equestrians riding boots may sound like a very odd idea it is really not that much of a stretch. Many people have purchased a set of boots only to find that theychafe or are simply not comfortable to them. There is absolutely nothing wrong with these boots, just the fact that every ones feet are a bit different, what fits one perfectly from the factory may not fit another. Taking some time to search for these online will possibly save you quite a bit of money when it comes to equestrian riding boots. Anyone that has ever purchased a new pair knows that some can be quite expensive and this is a way to get a pair of boots that may otherwise be out of your price range or budget.

The most important thing in regards to buying equestrian riding boots is the fit itself. This may seem impossibility if shopping online but it is not quite as far off as you think. Simply take a trip to the local equestrian supply that carries boots and try on a few pairs, find something you like and that fits you well. Then come home, get online and shop to your heart’s content as you now know the style and size you need. This alleviates any guesswork as to whether the boots will fit once they arrive and will give you some peace of mind when ordering and paying for these online.

When trying on new equestrian riding boots, make sure to wear the proper clothing. If you have your riding breeches on then you will know if the boot fits correctly up the leg. It does no good to stuff a pair of jeans down them or just a sock as that is not what you will be wearing during your show or ride. Maintaining the consistency when trying on the boots will insure a perfect fit when they are in actual use and this will be the most important time of all.

Filed Under: Equipment, Horse Products, Riding Tagged With: equestrian riding boot, equestrian style riding boots, mens equestrian riding boots, used equestrian riding boots, women's equestrian riding boots

How to Choose the Right Horse Riding Boots

Purchasing a new horse can be an exciting time for the entire family. Everyone is going to be excited at the prospect of having a pet that can be ridden for fun or in competitions. Before grabbing your dirty sneakers and jumping on the horse, it is important to know that there are horse riding boots that are going to make riding much safer and easier on those who are just learning. Even experienced equestrians make a point of having riding boots on at all times while mounted on their horses.

The horse riding boot is made to protect the rider from many dangers. Mountain horse riding boots are going to protect the legs from being scratched up while riding through heavy brush or trees. These are made to be high cut so that the calves up to the knee are protected. If you or your family plans on riding mountain trails, they should wear a pair of these boots every time they are going for a ride. Never allow anyone to ride your horse on the trails without the proper protection. You would not allow your child to ride in the car without seat belts so do not let them ride without proper footwear.

English horse riding boots are also made to be tall. This is more for the look of the boot these days than it is for protection. In the days of the Calvary, these boots would protect the rider from lances, sword and stab wounds. Since there is no fighting done when riding English style today, the boots are more for show. You should know how to take care of these show boots so that they are going to last a long time. Regular cleaning and polishing is the most maintenance that they are going to need.

Western horse riding boots are also known as cowboy boots. These can be made in the tall style such as the English and mountain as well as the shorter style that is popular in fashion these days. When you go shopping for western boots, keep in mind that pretty does not always equate to function. There are many fancy styles that can be purchased for a good amount of money. It is much better to have sturdy horse back riding boots than to spend the money on fancy ones.

You can find kids horse riding boots where you purchase adult ones. They are miniature versions of the same boots that the adults are going to wear. All the styles mentioned above can be purchased. Childrens horse riding boots should be chosen, again, for function rather than looks. They are going to wear them out before they outgrow them in many cases. This is because it is important to make sure that the boots fit properly when purchasing them. You do not want the child’s feet to be slipping and sliding inside the boot while they are mounted.

It is also a good way to lose a boot if it falls off during a ride. Not only is this going to protect the child, but they are going to get a better feel of the horse if they can feel their boots that fit properly. You can give the old boots to a younger child if they are not too badly worn. In some cases, the child is going to outgrow their childrens horse riding boots before they do wear out depending on the age of the child and their growth spurts. If they are going through a growth spurt when you purchase the new horse riding boots, then you may want to get a cheaper pair that is not going to put you out of pocket too much.

You may want to purchase two pairs of horse riding boots for your child. One pair can be a cheap type that they can use while mucking out stalls and grooming the horse. The other pair can be used for shows or rodeos depending on the style of riding they are going to do. Many children enjoy competing with their horses and this can be a fun way for the family to spend time together. Even if the horse is only going to be ridden around the property, two pairs of boots is not a bad idea. Again, one pair can be for the dirty stuff and the other pair can be worn during the actual riding.

Having proper fitting horses riding boots is important no matter the age of the rider. It is even more important for children whose feet are still growing. It is also important to purchase the correct riding boots for the style that is going to be used. You do not want to have western boots at an English riding competition. Find out what style your child is more interested in before purchasing boots or tack for the horse.

Filed Under: Equipment, Horse Products, Riding Tagged With: boots, childrens horse riding boots, choose horse riding boots, choose riding boots, english horse riding boots, girls horse riding boots, horse back riding boots, horse boots, horse riding boot, horse riding boots, kids horse riding boots, mountain horse riding boots, riding boots, riding horse boots, western horse riding boots

Horse Riding Equipment for Both Safety and Pleasure

One of the greatest joys in the world is spending time on the back of a horse. Horse riding is a favorite pastime for many, whether for enjoyment or actual competition. However, if you are new to the activity of riding horses and are contemplating getting a horse of your own, you must know that they are a lot of work and require a lot of horse riding equipment.

The first thing that one may think of in horse back riding equipment is the saddle. The saddle chosen must be of good quality and fit the style of riding. For example, English saddles have no horn and allow the horse more freedom of movement, which is imperative when jumping and performing in competitions. Western saddles, on the other hand, have a horn for the rider as an extra grip and it is generally more comfortable, which was required for those who spent most of the day in the saddle.

This, of course, leads to other comforts for the horse rider. Those who are serious about their ventures on horseback understand the importance of a good pair of riding boots. Again, there are a wide variety of boots available and the type chosen should depend on the type of riding being done. From the English and Western to paddock boots for everyday riding, horsemen should always choose one that fits well and one made of quality that can stand up to the wear and tear.

For many types of riding, more safety equipment for the rider is in need. Unfortunately, thousands of people are seriously injured each year from a mishap while riding a horse. Famous actor, Christopher Reeves is a good example. Unexpectedly falling from his horse, he was paralyzed from the neck down. While a helmet cannot prevent an injury such as this, it can prevent other serious head injuries that could easily occur from a bad fall. This is just one piece of the necessary horse riding equipment for kids when they are learning to ride.

Horsemen should also purchase equipment for horse riding that will prevent the horse form unnecessarily injuring themselves, as well. This would include specialized boots or shoes for different occasions. For example, if taking a horse on a long trail ride, mountain boots or splint boots can help prevent the horse from hurting their legs on the trail. Other horseman can also purchase boots that will fit directly over the hoof and will give their horse more traction in both mud and snow. When searching for this type of equipment for the horse, be sure to follow all instructions on what their best use is and whether or not they need to be fitted to the horse by a farrier.

While many riders often use a halter when riding, this is generally a piece of equipment that is intended for lead purposes. In other words, they are being lead around and are not being instructed by a rider. The bridle, on the other hand, is the headgear intended for the purpose of being able to control the horse when riding. There are several types, including those who use a bit and those who use a nose piece to help direct the horse.

The above mentioned are just a few of the necessary items needed. Other essential equipment includes appropriate clothing for the rider, saddle pads, blankets, reins, and even turnout blankets to help the horse cool down after a long ride. What you may have already realized is that this can be very expensive. However, you will find there is always a lot of used horse riding equipment available both online and locally. Before used equipment is purchased, a thorough examination is in order to make sure both horse and rider will be safe when using it.

For those who are just getting interested in this activity, they may find themselves very sore the first few times they ride. If this seems to be the case, there is horse riding fitness equipment available to help get the rider in shape. Simulating the movements of horse riding, it will allow the rider to strengthen the muscles used in riding and can save one a lot of unnecessary pain.

Horse riding equipment may be what some consider expensive, but many often find that their passion far outweighs the cost. Unfortunately, it can be a dangerous activity and riders should always beware of safety issues and take the necessary preventions to insure they and their horse will not get injured. Take time to research the various types of equipment that is available for the serious rider. Not every item will be right for the particular type of riding that is done and the more knowledgeable you become about the activity, the more passionate you are sure to become.

Filed Under: Equipment, Riding Tagged With: equipment for horse riding, horse, horse back riding equipment, horse equipment, horse riding, horse riding equipment, horse riding equipment for kids, horse riding fitness equipment, riding equipment, used horse riding equipment

Video: The Horses of Iron Springs Farm

Here's a great video from YouTube about the horses of Iron Springs Farm. These showhorses are amazing and graceful. The background song is called, "Chemicals React" by Aly & AJ. Be sure to watch this!

Filed Under: Horse Shows, Horse Videos, Riding Tagged With: Horse Videos, Riding, show horses

Problems when Mounting Up

Horses that move around when you are trying to mount are at best irritating, and at worst dangerous. You always want to avoid any situation where your foot is in the stirrup and you have the potential of being dragged. Being able to mount safely is also important should you need to get off your horse while out on the trail. If your horse dances around or backs up when you are mounting, you’ll want to work on some training to make sure that this does not become a problem in the future.

Have your horse checked for health problems. In particular, horses with sore backs might be trying to avoid a painful situation. Also, make sure that your mounting procedure is safe and comfortable for your horse. Use a mounting block where possible, to take the strain off his back, and when mounting avoid brushing his hip with your legs or dropping your weight into the saddle.
Work on your ground training. Your horse should be comfortable standing calmly and quietly while you move to different areas of his body. You should be able to stand at his hindquarters, as well as further up the body. Some horses will move around simply because they want to be able to see you.
Make sure you aren’t accidentally cuing him to move. If you are pulling too hard on the reins or bumping him with your foot as you mount, you may actually be asking him to step forward or back.
Try having a friend hold your horse while you mount up. Doing this a few times may be enough to help your horse get the message that should be standing still.

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: Riding

Trail Riding Safety During Hunting Season

Riders who board their horses near the city and stay on relatively urban trails probably never have to worry about riding during hunting season. However, if you ride your horse in a shared use area that is open to hunters, you must take measures to ensure that you and your horse are not confused with a hunter’s target. Although it is the hunter’s responsibility to confirm his prey before pulling the trigger, mistakes can happen and every year horses and people are shot by mistake. Here are some tips on keeping you and your horse safe during hunting season.

If at all possible, avoid areas that are well-known hunting locations. It is best not to take the risk that you or your horse will wind up catching a stray bullet.
Wear bright colors to help hunters distinguish you from their prey. Fix brightly colored flagging tape to your horse’s saddle and bridle, and be sure to wear a bright cover on your helmet and bright clothing. If you don’t have a brightly colored shirt or jacket, try using flagging tape to make armbands. Bright orange or lime green are probably your best options.
When your horse moves through the brush, he will make noise in the same fashion as large game. To make sure that hunters don’t mistake the sound of your horse, try a large cowbell attached to the saddle or halter. This will make a very distinctive noise that will carry quite far. If you can’t find a cowbell, take bear bells and either talk or sing loudly.
Stay on designated trails, as these are unlikely areas for hunters to be active.
Try riding at midday, as most hunters are out in the early morning or early evening. Also, your bright colors will be at their most effective in the midday sun.
Avoid heavily forested areas wherever possible.

Remember, not all hunters are law abiding and follow the rules. Even when hunting is not allowed, be prepared for poachers. Any time you ride out in the bush, make sure you and your horse stand out.

Filed Under: Horse Safety, Riding Tagged With: Horse Safety, Riding

Arena Horse Riding Safety

When riding with other horses in an arena, are you the rider that everyone else is cursing for being unsafe and inconsiderate? Check out the following key points in arena etiquette and safety.

Always pass left shoulder to left shoulder. This is a standard rule in every arena, however also be aware that sometimes this is not possible and you may need to give up right of way.
Keep a horse-length in between each horse. Never ride up close behind another horse, as it may kick out at your horse and also unseat its rider. If a horse has a red ribbon tied to its tail it means that the horse is especially likely to kick out at other horses.
Mount in the centre of the arena, in a place that won’t disturb the other riders.
Keep fast horses on the outside track and slower horses on the inside. All horses should be moving in the same direction where possible.
All horses should be doing the same type of work. In other words, it’s not a good idea to have some horses practicing jumps while others are working on their barrel racing skills.
Call out to other riders. If you are about to pass, or are going to open or close an arena gate, let the other riders know what you are doing.
Keep your cues quiet and watch your crop. Some horses are very sensitive to voice commands or even the sight of a crop. Be aware that accidentally causing another horse to jump forward could be very unsafe for his rider.
Always leave the arena in the condition you found it. This means putting away jumps and cones that you might have set up and removing all manure.
Don’t lunge a horse while others are riding, and under no circumstances should there be a loose horse in the arena while people are riding.
Be aware of what your horse might spook at while in the arena. A startled horse can easily unseat his rider, and also cause other horses to spook. Snow or ice sliding off the roof or drips from condensation are common causes, but know your horse and your environment and above all, be prepared.
If another rider is having trouble with their horse, be respectful and give them lots of room. It’s ok to ask if they need help, but not ok to lecture them on how they should be handling the situation.

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: horseback riding

How much weight can my horse carry?

An often voiced concern of riders, both novice and experienced, is whether their body size is a good match for their horse. Of particular concern is often whether a rider is too big for their horse, and how heavy a rider the horse can carry. Although our horses are incredibly strong and resilient creatures, it is important to remember that they were not built to carry people on their backs, and thus, we have the responsibility to ensure that we are not risking our horse’s health when we ride.

The general standard for how much weight a horse can carry is approximately twenty percent of its own body weight. Thus a 1000 pound horse should be able to carry about 200 pounds. It is important to keep in mind that this is both rider and tack. A typical Western saddle can weigh upwards of thirty pounds, so tack must be an important consideration. However, Western saddles can also be comfortable for the horse as they spread the weight out over a greater area than an English saddle, which can somewhat mitigate the extra pounds. Some breeds of horses, such as Arabs or Icelandics, are known for being able to carry a heavier load than others. Typically horses with large, strong bones and short backs are able to carry more weight.

It is also important to be aware of what type of rider is on the horse’s back. An inexperienced rider will consistently move outside of the horse’s natural rhythm, constantly throwing him off balance. In this situation, a heavier rider will cause the horse more difficulty. Conversely, a good rider who stays in rhythm with his mount is probably better able to ride a smaller horse.

Finally, keep in mind what type of work that you are doing. Walking and trotting will be easier on your horse than galloping or jumping. If doing more strenuous exercise and competition, it is going to be much more important to be in the right proportion to your horse.

Filed Under: Horse Care, Riding Tagged With: Horse Care, Riding

Riding on Heavily Traveled Trails

With more and more people accessing small numbers of recreational areas for such activities as hiking, mountain biking, and horse-back riding, many recreational parks are under heavy use, particularly during summer months. When you are riding on the trails, always be polite to other trail users and adhere to the following trail etiquette:

Always call out ahead if you are riding up behind a hiker or biker.
Never canter unless you are on a straight stretch and can see far ahead. Do not canter on narrow, winding trails, as you could startle and even trample a hiker.
Walk single file when crossing roadways and when passing pedestrians.
Remember that your horse’s hooves can cause damage to trails. Try to avoid soft trails in wet conditions and don’t run your horse except on trails in good condition. Stay on the trail and don’t wander into the brush.
When passing pedestrians or cyclists, move your horse to the side and stop to let them pass. Allowing your horse to stand and assess the situation means less risk of him spooking and accidentally running into someone. Also, remember that some people are frightened of horses or simply don’t know how to move around them. Keep your horse off to the side where he won’t startle anyone.
Keep your interactions with other trail users as polite as possible. If you need to call ahead for someone to leash their dog, or for a biker to slow down, remember that they may simply not be aware of how their actions might affect your horse. Speak to them politely and stay polite, even if they don’t.
Clean up after your horse wherever possible, and particularly on roadways and driveways.
Many areas have organizations that work to protect and maintain recreational areas through public awareness, safety campaigns, and trail maintenance work. Consider joining and give back to the trails that you enjoy so well.

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: Riding

Trail Riding Safety

For many horse enthusiasts, sharing a trail with an equine companion is the closest thing to heaven to be found here on earth. But without the right preparation, even small emergencies can turn that blissful ride into a nightmare. Always let someone know where you will be riding and how long you expect to be gone for. Some barns even hang a clipboard that riders can sign in and out on, ensuring that no one accidentally gets missed. Depending on where you ride, wildlife might also be an issue. You may need to work with your horse to get him comfortable with hanging bear bells from either the saddle or bridle.

Keep your saddlebags stocked with extra items so you don’t have to pack for each ride – this will save time and keep you from forgetting any vital items. However, always keep your most important emergency items, such as a cell phone, attached to your belt in case you are separated from your horse. A hoofpick is necessary for dealing with stones lodged in your horse’s feet. A small emergency first aid kit, including disinfectant wipes, gauze pads, bandages, and antibacterial ointment is also a good idea. Baling twine can come in handy for broken straps, particularly on bridles.

As riders we tend to look out for our horse’s well-being first, but don’t forget to pack for your own needs as well. A bottle of water and small snack can make your ride more comfortable. Much of your horse’s first aid kit will likely prove useful to yourself in an emergency, but you might also wish to carry a small personal first aid kit with you. And of course it goes without saying, a proper fitting helmet is a must. Happy trails!

Filed Under: Horse Safety, Riding Tagged With: horse riding, Horse Safety, horseback riding, riding safety

How to Handle Water Crossings When Horseback Riding

Many horses have a strong and innate fear of stepping in water. If your horse is one, you will understand the frustration of having your horse plant his feet in front of a large puddle or small stream, refusing to go any further. This is an incredibly exasperating experience for any rider, and may often result in the use of force to attempt to get the horse to cross. However, as with any training, force might provide an immediate solution, but it will not get your horse to trust you or the situation, and you will likely encounter more serious problems next time. It is important to understand that because of the way a horse’s eyes are set on his head, it is impossible for him to have the depth perception that we have. Therefore, while we look at a puddle and can see how deep it is, for your horse, it is a giant black hole. You will need great trust from your horse to get him to risk his life stepping into that.

Try getting your horse used to water back home, in his familiar surroundings. You might use a hose to make a puddle in a certain part of the field or paddock, or even pour water onto a tarp. You can then work quietly and calmly with your horse to increase his confidence. You might try having another horse walk through the puddle first. Take your time and end each session on a good note. If your horse is willing to make just a small amount of effort more than he was yesterday, that’s good enough. It might be walking closer to the puddle, sniffing it, or even putting one foot in. Don’t force the issue and be happy with your progress, however slow. Before long, you and your horse will be merrily splashing through water!

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: horse riding, horseback riding, water crossing

Horseback Riding on Roadways

With more and more people housing their horses within city limits, riding on roadways has for many riders become a necessary evil to get to the trails that they love so dearly. If you do find yourself having to take your horse out onto a roadway, ensure that he is safe with traffic. Even if you are riding on a relatively quiet country road, be aware that it’s always possible to encounter various types of vehicles. If your horse should spook, it is very possible that he may jump directly into traffic, or might wind up in a roadside ditch. If you are going to be on the road, your horse must be comfortable with cars, trucks, tractors, motorcycles, and other such vehicles as dumptrucks, ATV’s, and bicycles.

You must have confidence in the bravery of your horse and his ability to be calm in new situations. Use hand signals just as you would on a bicycle to warn drivers of your movements. Where possible, avoid the road surface as some pavement can be very slippery for your horse. However, be aware of ditches that could cave under your horse’s weight, and also of dangerous debris such as broken glass or construction waste that could injure your horse. As always, look ahead to what might frighten your horse. Maybe there are garbage cans out on the street that he has never seen before, or big construction signs. Watch driveways and yards as you approach for things that will startle your horse, such as cars, or even fenced dogs that may suddenly appear in a riot of noise. Talk to your horse and keep him focused on you and moving forward. If you are riding in a group, ride single file and cross roads together.

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: horse riding, horseback riding, riding at night

Safety Tips for Horseback Riding at Night

Riding at night can be extremely dangerous, and should always be done with caution. However, should you find yourself caught after the sun goes down, or if you are intent on taking your horse out for a moonlit ride, it is important to be prepared. Have a flashlight with you, or even better, a headlamp worn on your helmet. Make sure that your horse is used to the flashlight, and don’t shine it into his face. Have reflectors on your clothing, and also on your horse’s saddle and bridle, and wear light-colored outerwear. Do not ride on roadways unless it cannot be avoided – a dark horse and rider are extremely hard for motorists to see. Ride with a buddy, and make sure you stay together and that you’ve told someone where you are going to be riding. Ride in areas that you know well, and try to stay where there is at least some light from the moon. Keep your horses to a walk, and be aware that although your horse can see better than you can in the dark, the world will still look different to him, and he may spook more than usual. Wildlife typically are more active after the sun goes down, so carry bells to make some noise, and keep to well-traveled trails.

The best way to enjoy a ride under the full moon is in an outdoor arena, where your horse is safely contained and help is close at hand should you fall off. Although the appeal of night riding may be strong, always consider safety first, both for you and your horse.

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: horse riding, Horse Safety, horseback riding, riding safety

Bareback Riding Safety

Learning to ride without the security of a saddle or stirrups might seem like a scary proposition, but it can actually help you to bond more closely with your horse and improve your seat at the same time. With bareback riding there is a greater chance of falling, so be sure to always wear your helmet and know how to dismount properly. It may be tempting to use a bareback pad, with or without stirrups, however they can easily slip and cause a dangerous situation, or lead to bad habits and a poor seat. Start out with a calm quiet horse - you might want to borrow a friend’s horse if yours is a little too wild – so that you can get a handle on how it feels to have the horse moving directly under you. For additional safety, have someone lead the horse so that you can concentrate on your balance, and not on controlling or guiding the horse. You will want to use a sturdy mounting block to get on, and make sure you have correct seat positioning before moving forward. Start out at a walk, and slowly advance to a trot as you feel more comfortable. Do not attempt cantering until you are completely comfortable at the trot, and consider having a friend lunge your horse so that you don’t have to worry so much about control. If you feel yourself start to slip, try grabbing hold of your horse’s mane – this is much safer for your horse than using the reins for balance, which could hurt his mouth. Try not to clench suddenly with your legs, as your horse may interpret that as a cue to move forward. With a little safety and lots of practice, bareback can easily become a favourite way to ride!

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: horse riding, Horse Safety, horseback riding, riding safety

Pregnancy and Horseback Riding

For many women horse owners there is not much that can keep them from the barn. But what happens if you find out you are pregnant? Unfortunately there is little other than anecdotal evidence on the relationship between pregnancy and riding, but there are a few basic things to consider. Falling is your biggest risk, as a fall from horseback can easily lead to difficulties in the pregnancy, including miscarriage. Additionally, there is the risk of being kicked, stepped on, or even knocked over when working with horses on the ground. Some women find that as their bodies change so does their center of gravity, making it difficult for them to continue riding as they once did. Others are easily tired or may have bladder control issues that make riding difficult. In addition to physical factors, just the worry alone can make the experience unpleasant. If you do decide to keep riding, make sure you are handling quiet horses that are less likely to spook or pull. Consider changing your activities to include more ground work or even driving. If you have any history of pregnancy loss before 24 weeks or are currently experiencing high risk conditions, it is probably better to play it safe and not ride at all. Most physicians agree that if your body is used to a certain routine, it should be safe to continue that through the pregnancy. Therefore, if you are used to riding your horse three times a week, you can probably continue at this pace, but it wouldn’t be the best time to sign up for a three day event. Continuing to ride through your pregnancy is a difficult decision, and ultimately one that only the expectant mother herself can make, with input from her obstetrician.

Filed Under: Horse Safety, Riding Tagged With: Horse Safety, horseback riding, pregnancy, Riding

Safe Horseback Riding in Extreme Heat

Riding in extreme heat can be at best uncomfortable, and at worst cause serious injury to you and your horse. Before heading out on the trail on a hot summer day, consider the following:

Is your horse well conditioned? The heat will add increased stress to your horse’s body, so it is important not to ask more of him than he can handle. Keep exercise at a lower level on extremely warm or humid days.
Try riding in the early morning hours or later in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Wherever possible, take trails that provide you and your horse with protection from the sun.
Wear lightweight and light coloured clothing for optimum cooling. Sunglasses will also make your ride more comfortable.
Sunscreen! Don’t leave home without it - and be sure to cover all exposed parts, including ears, back of the neck, and your hands. If your horse has light skin and pink patches that are prone to sunburn, be sure to protect him as well. Human products such as zinc oxide are safe for horses or, if you prefer, horse-specific sunscreen can be found at your local tack store.
If insects are a problem in your area, use a good bug repellent before heading out on the trail. You might want to invest in a product for your own use as well.
Bring lots of water and be sure to stay hydrated.
Unless necessary, don’t trailer your horse in extreme heat. If you are trailering in temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, be sure to stop often and provide your horse with lots of water. Try to travel in the early morning hours or in the evening whenever possible.

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: horse riding, Horse Safety, horseback riding, Riding, riding tips

Winter Horseback Riding Tips

Many riders shy away from winter trail riding but with the right preparations it can be just as nice, and even nicer, than summer riding. One of the key safety issues is footing, so you will probably want to ask a farrier about shoeing options that will give your horse better traction on icy ground. If snow builds up inside your horse’s feet, you might want to try applying a layer of petroleum jelly before heading out for a ride. If you’ve clipped his coat, he may need extra protection to keep warm. Your local tack store will probably carry various types of clothing meant to be worn by your horse while being ridden. Ensure that your horse is well acquainted with these items before heading out on the trail. If your horse does have his winter coat, you’ll notice that he’s going to sweat up quickly. Take lots of rest breaks, don’t push him too hard, and be prepared after your ride to use a light sheet to help him dry out. Give him a good grooming afterwards to improve the insulation of his coat. Dress for your own comfort as well in gloves with a good grip, warm boots and socks, and several layers of breathable clothing. You may want to add an outback coat or waterproof windbreaker in especially wet conditions. Warming gel packs in your boots and gloves can be a nice addition – just be sure they aren’t too hot. Pack a high energy snack, such as granola bars or trail mix, and don’t forget your water – winter riding can still leave you dehydrated. Try warming up with a hot chocolate at the end of your ride by leaving a kettle, drink supplies and a thermos back at the barn.

Filed Under: Riding Tagged With: horse riding, horseback riding, riding tips, winter riding

How to Safely Fall Off a Horse

The more you ride a horse, the more likely you are to fall off. You need to be prepared for when the inevitable strikes. If you follow these rules, you will greatly improve your chances of falling off with no injuries.

How Do I Avoid Falling?

Keep your skill level in mind; ride a horse you are comfortable with.
Pay attention to your surroundings so your horse won't get spooked.
Use a well-fitted saddle and keep your stirrups at a proper length.
Be in control.
Keep your girth tightened, so the saddle will stay in place.

How Do I Anticipate a Fall?

Learn emergency dismounts and stops.
Wear a helmet.
Wear safety stirrups cages on your stirrups or boots with a 1" heel.
Wear a vest specially designed for horse falls.
Wear gloves.

What Do I Do With the Reigns?

The main thing to keep in mind is safety. If you fall because your horse is upset and bucking, you should let go to avoid injury. If you are in an enclosed area, it is also OK to let go. If you are in the wilderness, hold on to the reigns if at all possible. Above all, trust your instincts!

How Do I Fall?

If at all possible, kick your feet out of the stirrups. If you fall quickly, roll out of the way of your horse and make sure to keep your arms and legs tucked in close to your body.

What Do I Do After a Fall?

Make sure that you are OK, if not get help immediately so that you will not worsen your injury. If you are OK, give yourself a minute to catch your breath and get ready to ride again. Keep in mind why you fell off in the first place to avoid it happening again.

Filed Under: Horse Safety, Riding Tagged With: horse riding, Horse Safety, horseback riding, Riding