The elegance and classic experience of horse rider make it one of the most exciting activities. This also makes horse sports so thrilling and unique from other sports.
On the surface, horse riding looks easy. You may think all it takes is for the rider to mount the horse, and the animal galloped away. However, this is not the case, and horse riding is far from easy. Being a good horse rider takes a lot of hard work, commitment, and training.
Although a lot of work goes into horse riding training, it is worth noting that all successful horse riders create an incredible bond between themselves and their horses.
Whether you are training to ride horses for recreation or more professional reasons like sports, this article provides insight into how you should train.
Maintain Your Balance Without the Saddle
Every beginner training in horse riding is advised to get properly strapped. This is to maintain balance on the horse, reducing the chances of falling off. Saddles are also a part of horse riding that helps control the horse.
However, maintaining your balance without the saddle as your training progresses gives you more confidence, especially during bumpy rides. Also, it helps you create a stronger bond with your horse. Note that it is always safer to ride with saddles. In fact, all horse riding tournaments involve a saddle. However, practicing without saddles increases your horseriding ability tremendously.
Improve your Fitness
Horse riding requires strength, control, and maximum coordination; hence, riders need to stay healthy and fit. The more fit you get, the more endurance you have during practice and the less tired you get as you begin riding.
Several exercises are recommended for horse riders to improve fitness, including push-ups, squats, running, cycling, etc. These exercises help you maintain a good balance on your horse while keeping it under control.
Groom Your Horse
Just like you wouldn’t go to work without a good bath and a clean cloth, your shouldn’t take your horse out for a ride without being groomed. Grooming involves removing dirt and dust from every part of the horse.
Always use a clean brush to remove any sticky mud or dirt on your horse, clean out stones and rocks from its hooves, and always check its body for any injuries. Riding on a clean, shiny, and healthy horse boosts your confidence and increases the horse’s performance. Regular grooming is an effective way to bond with your horse.
Train Under a Professional
There is no way to evaluate your skills and track your development in horse riding training without the help of a professional. Having someone to identify your weak areas, give positive criticisms, and encourage you as you train is compulsory to sharpen your skills as a horse rider.
You can also consider training with more than one person to expand your learning scope. This is a way to ensure you are not limited to only the techniques and styles of a single trainer. Learning from more than one trainer is a proven way to hone your riding skills and become a well-rounded professional horse rider faster.
Watch Other Riders
Like with any other activity, watching other people can significantly improve your horse riding skill. Studying professionals up close can help you learn how riding techniques are applied practically and how to connect with your horse better. It also helps you know the mistakes to watch out for, improving your style.
You can visit practice centers, where trainers review the latest techniques and study professional riders during major events. However, note that this cannot replace your training and practice.
Participate in horseback riding competitions
There is no better way to put your training into real-life practice than participating in a horse riding event. Competition helps master your skills by requiring you to put in your best in the heat of pressure. The results you get in these events will help you analyze the progress you’re making with your training and how far you still need to go. Competition also fuels your motivation and passion as you see other riders give their best in live action.
Conclusion
Horse riding is far from easy; it is a craft that requires consistency and commitment to mastering your skills. However, it’s worth all the trouble as riding a horse is one of the most splendid and thrilling experiences ever.