We all start from scratch when picking up a new activity! Riding takes mental and physical coordination different from many other sports and hobbies. Here are some of the most common problem areas we see for beginner riders and a few tips to improve.
Challenges with posture while riding
It can be a little hard to get the hang of sitting on a horse correctly. A few of the most common trouble areas for new riders are leaning, pushing up in the stirrups, looking down, and keeping your arms out. Let’s address each of these concerns one at a time.
Leaning forward or backwards
It’s important to sit straight up. Leaning to one or side or the other too much can cause you to pull the reins along with you and lead your horse astray. As my riding teacher told me when I was just starting, imagine that your back is as straight as a straight stick.
Pushing up in the stirrups
Likely you’ve heard the mantra, “heels down,” but there are a few other ways to visualize the correct position for your foot. Your foot should rest on the stirrup on the balance point, just behind the ball of the 2nd toe. If you can see your toe in front of your knee, your legs are too far forward. You can try out safety stirrups to help position your feet when you first start riding.
Looking down
Keeping your eyes ahead is key to your balance while you ride. It’s tempting to look down at your horse, but looking ahead is the best way to get you and your horse where you want to go, especially when you’re jumping. To help you look at your destination, remember to keep your face forward and only glance down over your nose.
Keeping your elbows out
The temptation is strong to do your best chicken arms while riding. Part of the reason this feels so right is that we naturally use our hands and arms to balance ourselves. But when you’re riding, that logic simply won’t apply. Riding with arms loose allows for a better communication with your horse. The elbows should be bent and close to the body with your hands square in front of you.
Grip
When you’re riding, try not to grip too tight. This applies to your horse and the reins. Gripping too tight with your legs can be uncomfortable for you and your horse and cause confusion. Your legs are used to communicate with the horse, especially when switching gaits, so if you squeeze too hard, you may end up bolting across the field. Plus, more grip means more chance of chafing for you. One thing that can help keep a quiet leg is by wearing tall boots or half chaps. This will help prevent squeezing too tightly while keeping contact with the saddle.
It’s important to place your thumbs loosely on top of the reins, but not so loose that they slip. A good rule of thumb (pun intended) is to use the reins to make a straight line from you to the horse.
Challenges with clothing while riding
Loose or incorrectly fitting clothes are likely more easily available to new riders, but they are ultimately not the best choice for long days in the ring. Jeans or other loose pants can get caught in the saddle and seams are more likely to cause chafing. Breeches are designed for a more comfortable and seamless ride. Definitely a worthwhile investment!
Show shirts and schooling shirts are designed to allow for maximum movement during the specific movements needed during your ride. You can also get state-of-the-art protection from athletic materials. For instance, IceFil Sun Shirts are made of fabric that lowers your body temperature by 5 degrees and provides UV-protection.
Challenges with impatience while riding
It may be tempting to feel like you have to attempt a big challenge too early when you’re riding. As usual, slow and steady does win the race when starting your riding journey. When you first start riding, you’ll make lots of progress, but as you get more into it, you’ll have to go backwards a few times. It’ll be tempting to go straight for that big jump or try for that tough combination, but don’t forget to take the time to perfect your technique. Take time to enjoy the ride (literally).
We hope that these tips can help you get started on your riding journey! Don’t forget to enjoy the time you spend on your horse and have some humor along the way. If you need help building your riding wardrobe, shop our website or visit our stores.
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