Equestrianism is a sport that provides unique experiences and can bring many benefits to the body of any cowboy or cowgirl, going far beyond posture and mind. If you want to start riding, see below 5 things you need to know before starting your lessons!
What Is Horseback Riding?
The equestrian modality is a sum of sports practices that involve a horse, such as dressage, running, and jumping. Sports practices with horses exist for a long time in human history, however, modern competitions began in 1883, in the United States. The first time this sport was part of the Olympic Games was in Paris, in 1900.
Equestrianism Is Not Riding!
Confusion between horse riding and horse riding is common. Even in the case of two sports that involve horses, what differentiates both modalities are that equestrianism is characterized as the art of riding the animal, involving proof of balance, running, among others; while riding is the practice of riding.
Guide Lessons
Guide lessons are essential for those who want to do very well in horse riding. They are the ones that will help the cowboy or the cowgirl (Or the rider and riders, as it is called in equestrianism) to gain balance and confidence. Regardless of your age, you will need to take guide lessons.
Each Horse Is Different
Any cowboy or cowgirl who wants to practice horseback riding, whether to invest in a career or just to have fun, should know the horse well. So, study the animal’s anatomy a lot before starting and understand that each horse is different.
No horse is equal to another, this means that, just like us humans, each will have different temperaments, quirks, and temperaments, and you should never expect them to look alike or think you understand everything about them because you have already been in contact with one.
For All Ages
Even if it requires physical effort and a lot of attention, riding is a sport that is welcome for everyone! There is no age limit, the only thing that will differ is the size of the animals. For example, for little ones, from 5 to 12 years old, it is advisable to use ponies, which should allow the development of all the necessary skills for the practice.
In fact, in equestrianism, there is no gender distinction either! This is the only Olympic sport where men and women can compete for the same medals, as long as they jump at the same height.
What Will You Need
There is no need to buy all the equipment in the first classes because the place where you will be practicing will likely have a saddle, blanket, helmet, and all the other materials needed to provide you in the first classes.
Accessories and clothing need to be comfortable so that you and your horse don’t get hurt. You’ll need boots (especially the ones with heels, so that if you slip, the heel will be caught in the chain and not your leg), sunscreen, gloves, helmets, pants, blouses, and specific coats. However, for the first few classes, where you will probably be taking guide lessons, leggings or jeans will do in place of the costumes.
If you get a taste for the sport, remember to invest first in the helmet, breeches, and boots. There are several options for these items, with the most varied prices and styles.
