Common Neophyte Riding Mistakes and Fixes

The Spruce Pets share 10 common horseback riding missteps that newbies will often make and tips on how to fix them. Here are a few of the universal slips that can happen but no worries, reset yourself and you can get on the right canter:

1. Hands in the air - Often beginner riders have their hands high up in the air thinking that this will assist in their balance.   Not so, as the reins control the horse and loose reins accord limited to no control. You can fix this by holding the reins at hip level and maintainting an even light tension.
2. Standing on tippy toes - When you first learn to post the trot, you may tippy toe and this can lead to losing the rhythm of the trot.  To fix this, train your core muscles to help you post the trot and to not use your feet.
3. Ramming your feet into the stirrups -  This is a common but potentially serious mistake if you are not outfitted with safety stirrups or proper boots.  Work on ensuring that your stirrups are always at the proper length.  "The stirrup should just hit your ankle bone when your legs are hanging free with your feet out of the stirrups. Place your foot in the stirrup so the ball (widest) part of your foot is resting on the stirrup."
4. Holding your breath - Trying something new, makes people anxious and often holding your breath comes hand in hand with new experiences.  To allay this natural reaction, smile, laugh, hum appropriately, or if you can work on creating a comfortable breathing pattern that matches the cadence of a gentle walk.
5. Looking at the horse - New riders are often exhilirated and infatuated with their horse and riding.  It is however, very important that you keep your eyes on the direction that you want to head in.  Remember, you are controling the horse and the determing the destination.

Riding is a marvelous experience.  Paramount in your instruction is always be safe and wear the proper riding helmet and safe footwear.

For more information and the other 5 mistakes:  The Top 10 Beginner Horse Riding Mistakes

Image Credit:  Futures Stars Camps