| Learning horse riding is something that has an exotic | | | | - It is important to have correct body posture and to |
| appeal to it. However, it involves a great deal of | | | | hold the reins in a proper way. |
| energy, enthusiasm and presence of mind when it | | | | - Riding involves a certain amount of fitness as it |
| comes to controlling the beautiful animal. At least, that's | | | | exercises the insides of the thighs. Your legs need to |
| what we learnt from Lorraine More, a horse expert | | | | be strong. Hence walking, running, climbing hills or any |
| and the owner of Japalouppe Equestrian Center that | | | | sport activity is essential. |
| has trained hordes of people since 1999. Here are her | | | | - Riding involves more of mental strength than physical |
| guidelines on this exquisite art. | | | | strength. Therefore before mounting on a horse, make |
| Tips... | | | | sure that you are firm in your mind. |
| - Before riding it is important to have love for the | | | | - As you are handling an animal and not a machine, try |
| animal. Be friendly to the horse as it can be easily | | | | to adjust to its mood swings at times. |
| domesticated and that will make your riding easier. | | | | Benefits of riding horses... |
| Therefore before learning riding, build a rapport with the | | | | - It brings a sense of love and compassion for animals |
| animal by talking, grooming and handling it. This will help | | | | in general. |
| him respond to you better. | | | | - Riding is a great way of exercising and works on the |
| - Please have an open mind before learning to ride a | | | | inner thighs, legs, hands and even concentration. |
| horse. Let go of your inhibitions. | | | | - As a lot of interaction and understanding is involved |
| - Refrain from use of swear words, bad body | | | | while riding a horse it improves your communication |
| language and temperament because the animal may | | | | skills. |
| be as sensitive as you are. | | | | - It also makes you self confident as mental strength |
| - When you are learning riding go with the flow and | | | | plays a major role in riding a horse. |
| make sure that you do not have large time gaps | | | | - Taking care of the horse, grooming and handling it is |
| between your lessons. | | | | a humbling process making you sensitive and empathic |
| - A horse is very sensitive and has a keen sense of | | | | in certain situations especially when he has mood |
| touch. Ensure that you do not pull the reins too hard as | | | | swings. |
| the horses will respond to the rider's hands through the | | | | - A rider will always have an extra edge in terms of |
| touch (even your legs touch the sides of the horse). | | | | attitude and posture. |
| - Safety should be a top priority. It is mandatory to use | | | | - Riding is known to have helped in improving children |
| right gear like helmets, boots and breaches (riding | | | | with Downs Syndrome. It could also help the blind with |
| pants). | | | | respect to their mental abilities. |