Mounting a horse for the first time brings mixed feelings for many. On one part you are excited, while on the other you feel nervous. Seated high up on horse back, holding the reins, you finally realize riding a horse is not as easy as the movies make it seem. But if you can manage to keep it together, with the help of a guide, you will finally have your first horse riding experience.
But before you ride a horse for the first time, you will need to familiarize yourself with the horse tack which are the accessories equipped on horses such as saddles, stirrups, straps, bridles and bits. It is with this knowledge that you will be able to maneuver your horse.
For instance, if you want the horse to move left, you pull the strap in your left hand and the horse will turn left. If you want to turn right, you pull the strap in your right hand and the horse will turn right. If your horse is moving forward and you want to stop, you will pull both straps towards your stomach and the bit (metal in the mouth of the horse) will bring it to a halt. If you want the horse to starting moving forward again, you will nudge it using your feet. If you want it to move faster, you will keep on kicking with your feet. And to keep firm in your saddle, you will use your knees to support yourself.
Now that you are versed with the basics, there a few more things you need to keep in mind while horse riding. According to Harrison Gikungu Waweru, the Equestrian Manager and Head Instructor at the Speke Resort Equestrian Centre, these are:
1. Be focused — When you are seated on a horse, you need to be focused and concentrate on the task at hand. This is because a horse is an animal and could get jittery and throw you down, or you could even easily topple over from the horse if you lose your concentration.
2. Always wear a helmet — As long as you are on a horse, you must wear a helmet. This is because in an unfortunate incident that you have tripped off the horse, you will fall head first. The helmet is for your safety.
3. Wear the right attire — When you are riding a horse, you will need to put on a trouser and closed shoes. You can wear special riding pants called jodhpurs, or just improvise with jeans. However, shorts are not allowed because if you ride in shorts, the saddle will leave you bruised.
4. Listen to the instructor — The instructor always knows best. He will decide which horse suits you best as a beginner. This will depend on your weight, level of skill and the horse’s calmness.
Harrison who has 13 years’ experience with jumping horses says, to become comfortable with horse riding, it will take you at least 10 rides (each lasting 45 minutes) and this will cost you Ugx 400K at the Speke Resort. At this point you should be able to control the horse with ease and ride on your own.
Staff Writer