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  • By Tanisha Berg


    It is easy to admire the beauty of this wonderful animal. He is strong and proud. You can learn to ride skillfully when you sign up for a summer camp session offered by one of the horse riding academies stockton ca has to offer.

    Usually the first experience with these fine animals is going on a one-hour trail ride for pleasure. There are many other ways to ride and make it a hobby in your life. Feeding, grooming and even approaching the animal are all done in specific ways.

    You can learn all this and more at one of the academies in the area. Brushing the horse, saddling and bridling him before riding are all skills to learn. Keep all dust and dirt from his back to avoid saddle sores.

    You do the grooming and saddling with the horses halter on and change to the bridle just before riding. When you approach a horse from behind, make a sound so he knows you are there. This avoids startling the animal.

    A saddle pad goes on his back over the blanket. It is shaped like the saddle. It is made of a padded material to protect his back. Then put the saddle on gently over the pad.

    The cinch strap goes under the belly to secure the saddle. It attaches to the left side of the saddle and should be a snug fit, without being too tight. Test it by slipping two fingers between it and the belly. If you can do that easily, it is just right.

    The stirrups are adjusted to the right length for each rider. They have to be short enough for standing and putting all your weight on them. They should be long enough for your feet to rest comfortably.

    Now take the bridle and slip the bit into the horses mouth. Slip the headpiece over the ears. Make sure it rests comfortably and then remove the halter. Now all the tack is in place and it is time to ride.

    Your instructor may take you to an enclosed area to learn. You are instructed to mount from the left side of the animal. Place your left foot into the left stirrup. Then swing your right leg up and over the horses back and sit in the saddle. Place your right foot in the right stirrup.

    If riding Western style, hold the reins in your left hand. You can stop by saying whoa and pulling back on the reins. A slight pressure will give the signal to stop. Move the reins to the right to turn to the right and left to turn left.

    You may take a private lessons with an instructor or be part of a small group of riders. You will be taught how to dismount. You will practice taking the reins over the head and tying them to a hitching post. Always use the slip knot the instructor will teach you.

    At the end of your first lesson it will be difficult to leave. Unsaddle your horse, talking to him in a soft voice. Take time to stroke his neck and look forward to the day when you will return for another lesson.




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