Horse riding can really be fun but it can also be a difficult sport especially if you have no experience riding an animal. To learn how to ride a horse, you can always avail of a horse riding lesson in your locality. To prepare you and give you a background on riding, here is a quick guide on how to ride a horse.

Finding a good stable

Before learning how to ride a horse, you should look for a good stable that have an experienced riding instructor to help you out. The horse should be appropriate for beginners and the stable should have a good area to test ride your horse. A beginner's horse should be at least 8 years of age and is calm and experienced.

How to ride a horse

Get your horse prepared and then you can mount it. You can either use a mounting block or get on the horse by getting a leg up. For beginners, it is a good choice to use a mounting block. Ask someone to hold the horse in position and climb on the block while you hold the horse reins using your left hand. Place your left foot on the stirrup and spring your right foot. Get up on the horse and lower yourself to sit gently on the saddle. Hold the reins in your hand and place your feet on to the stirrups.

The balancing act

On your first ride, your instructor will lead the horse to give you the feel of your horse. If you get the feeling of unbalance, hold the mane to get your balance back. You might feel a rocking motion, which is just normal. Move with the horse keeping your elbows light.

Riding position

When riding, keep your eyes straight forward with your back straight. Keep your feet on the stirrup with your heels pointing downwards. Keep in mind that your heel, hip and shoulders should be aligned. You can use various aids to keep control of your horse. Aids can be natural tools like your hands, legs and seat. You can also use man made tools such as spurs or whips.

Riding techniques

Once you are able to ride on your animal the next horse riding lesson you should learn is to trot. To trot, rise up in every other step. Your heel should be pointed down and keep in mind to stay contact with your horse's mouth. Next, you should also know how to canter. This is similar to a fast rocking pace. You can do this by moving your legs slightly backwards and then squeeze.

There are many things that you can still learn in a horse riding lesson. Scout your local area for some good stable that offers how to ride a horse for beginners and you will surely trot with style in no time.