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The Basic Western Riding Program
The following is NOT a schedule but rather an outline of skills to be mastered. Students will progress at their own
individual pace. Some skill sets are combined with others during sessions.
Resource Materials:
Resource materials can be provided covering such subjects as routine foot care, parts of the western saddle, bits and bitting, and horse
colors and markings. Several horse books and magazines are available for the student to take home and read. A notebook should be kept
for small assignments concerning horse-related topics. Examples include; horse colors, different breeds, lameness definitions, etc.
The Nature/Behavior of the Horse:
A ground lesson will be given that will focus on a common sense and functional approach to understanding how the horse responds to his
environment and how to safely approach and handle a horse.
- Walk up to a horse
- Halter, lead, and tie
- Groom; brushing, bathing, clipping
- Saddling (small children and first time riders may ride with a bareback pad)
- Bridling
- Start, stop, and turn, pivot, back-up (you will know this before you attempt to move the horse)
Mounting, Dismounting, and Balance:
Learn proper mounting and dismounting techniques and how to adjust your position on the horse to bring your body into correct alignment
for a balanced riding seat.
The Beginning of "Feel":
Learn & practice exercises on horseback that allow the rider to move with the horse. Lay down on the horses back, ride backwards; reach
for the sky, wave with both hands, etc.
Developing a Secure Leg:
Learn and practice exercises on horseback that allow the upper body to move around over secure and correctly placed legs. Standing in the stirrups,
(when using a saddle).
Sitting Trot (both slow and extended trot):
The ability to sit the big extended trot with a balanced and relaxed seat is a major milestone for beginning riders. The exercises learned and practiced
in earlier sessions lead up to this crucial skill.
Loping is the next gait faster than a trot, but not galloping, and the student maintaining control of the horses' direction while riding a simple pattern.
Management:
Recommendations on feeding and care for a horse to include; rehabilitation, barefoot trimming, de-worming, conditioning, supplement usage, behavior,
herd management, breeding and stallion management, etc.
Events Students can, upon request, have a basic exposure to Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, Equitation, Western Riding, Trail, Team Penning, and Reining.
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