Nobody has to tell the horseback riders that the unexpected should be expected, or that the exception to the rule is the norm. We’ve seen it all, from crazy terrain in the backcountry to wild reactions from a horse. The trail can throw a lot of curveballs our way! To help us all stay safe, we will discuss a variety of situations that may or may not require a controlled, quick departure from the saddle. Commit to the Ride Most of the time, you are safer in the saddle. When I start colts I commit to the ride and do not look for a place to land or cloud my thoughts with “what if.” I confidently sit down and ride the horse. When jumps, side-steps and bucks happen, I stay centered and teach the horse that everything is still alright and I’m not going anywhere. This is not the time…
Is Your Horse Ready for a Group Trail Ride?
Group Options and Resources The first logical requirement for group trail rides is having a reliable horse. If you haven’t invested in a dependable trail horse yet you may want to borrow a nice and reliable horse who is a seasoned veteran of group rides. This would also give you an opportunity to find an equestrian group or groups that you would feel comfortable with to plan future rides and even trips. Not all group rides are equal! If you live in an area that has accessible trails and you know other folks with horses, you can organize your own group rides. If you don’t have horsey neighbors or are seeking new folks to ride with there are organized groups all over the country. In Texas we have a great organization called Texas Equestrian Trail Riders Association (TETRA) and many other states have corresponding associations that you may join. (TB…
How Team Skills Influence Your Horse Trail
If you maintain a positive attitude, it will be easier for your horse to focus. Be committed towards success and be willing to work within your horse’s capacity to learn new skills regularly. Educating a great trail horse takes time, as much time as is necessary, which doesn’t mean 30-day increments. It may take years to develop the ultimate companion horse but it is well worth it. Start with a single horse and rider and if all goes well, then move on to a group of two or three riding partners before joining a larger group. Introduce a new element of possibilities one at a time. Horses love security whether it is a familiar horse trail riding, or being in familiar company. If any of the elements change, be prepared for new or slightly different behavior from your horse. Tip the herd dynamics scale If you find that your horse…