Horseback riding is more than a sport. The term equitation means, “the art and practice of horsemanship and horse riding.” As it states, riding is an art. It is a dance, a meeting of energies, and a synchronicity between you and your equine.
It requires dedicated practice to both maintain and improve your level of riding. Practice may seem tedious as you work towards becoming an improved rider, but there are tips that can help you towards success.
- Go back to the basics. Every discipline shares the same foundation. Jumping and barrel racing seem extremely different from the sidelines, but they share the same roots in equitation. Focus on strengthening that riding foundation and better your basics.
- Record a video. It’s hard to distinguish what areas of your riding are lacking from the seat of the saddle. You can have a friend or family member video your rides. By viewing the footage, you can see your riding with new eyes.
- Drop Your Stirrups. Relying on your tack can lead to dependence on them for balance and stability. Dropping your stirrups will force your riding muscles to work efficiently and unaided for better riding.
- Ride a different horse. Over time we get used to riding the same horse. By riding a different horse, we are forced to become a more active rider, using our abilities like new.
- Take a lesson. It’s never too late to take a riding lesson, regardless of your experience. A lesson can refresh your memory on riding technique and strengthen a weak riding foundation.
- Understand equine behavior. Your efforts to improve will be more successful when you understand your equine on a behavioral and psychological level.
- Don’t neglect your groundwork. Groundwork establishes a relationship with your horse through trust and respect, which is essential for better riding.
- Know your horse’s anatomy. By understanding how your horse’s body functions and the ways in which he moves, you can work with his body for a better ride.
- Create goals for yourself. Small goals and big goals for riding will help you feel productive and keep you devoted through your riding journey.
- Trust the process. Improving your riding will take time. Trust in yourself and your horse, and you will see the progress you are working towards.
