Horseback Riding

• Gait. This is the term for the speed and rhythm of a horse’s movement. There are four natural gaits: walk, trot, canter, and gallop. There are also some artificial gaits, such as the pace, rack, and amble, that are taught to some breeds of horses.
• Tack. This is the term for the equipment and accessories that are used for riding and handling a horse. It includes the saddle, bridle, reins, stirrups, girth, bit, martingale, breastplate, and more.
• Aids. These are the term for the signals and cues that a rider uses to communicate with their horse and direct their movement. They include the voice, hands, legs, seat, and weight.
• Lead. This is the term for the leg that a horse uses to start a canter or a gallop. It can be either the right or the left leg. A horse can also change leads during a canter or a gallop by switching the leading leg.
• Rein. This is the term for the strap or rope that connects the bit in a horse’s mouth to the rider’s hand. It is used to control the direction and speed of a horse. There are different types of reins, such as split reins, loop reins, and draw reins.

To start horseback riding as a hobby, you can do three things: visit a stable, watch some videos or podcasts, and take an online course. Visiting a stable will let you see the horses and riders in action and ask questions. Watching videos or podcasts will inspire you and teach you about riding. Taking an online course will give you a good mental picture of what to expect from your first horse encounter at the barn and boost your confidence. These steps will help you enter the world of horses.