When It Comes To Horseback Riding Michigan Citizens Are Spoilt For Choice

By Lana Bray


If you think you'd like to try horseback riding Michigan equestrian establishments are the first places to contact. Perhaps you'd like to try a trail ride. Another option is having formal lessons. Both are available in either small or large groups. Some will use western style gear while others use English style. If you want to experience the wonderful woodlands of the Michigan area, you are bound to enjoy a trail ride.

There is no more enjoyable way of combining exercise and pleasure than by embarking on a trail ride. If you have little experience with horses, this is an excellent way of determining if you want to have formal lessons. The horses used are often older mounts. They will need little direction from their rider as they will have followed the trails many times behind their stable mates. At certain sections, they will be ready for a gentle trot or lope, usually without any urging from the rider.

When you arrive at the stables, you will be shown how to brush your horse and perhaps clean out his feet. This allows you both to get to know each other a little. You will then be given instructions on saddling up. An arena may be used for a short period while you are given basic instruction on how to mount, steer and stop your horse.

Trail horses are chosen for their reliability and wisdom. They can be relied on to take care of beginner riders. Most stables run separate rides for those who have had little experience and those who have been riding for some time.

Horses used for beginner riders will be safe and reliable. Don't be concerned if they seem large. Sometimes the bigger horses are part-draft which means they are usually very quiet with extremely calm dispositions. The horses for more experienced riders will have a little more spirit but will still be well-mannered and obedient.

When booking a trail ride, be honest about your abilities. It is easy to have a fall from a horse even when experienced. While trail horses are used to having beginners on their backs, it is folly to say you can ride if this is not true. Horses will be matched to the ability of the rider. To get the best match, the trail master needs an honest answer if he asks about your experience.

It is important to obey any instructions from your leader. He knows the horses intimately. Matching each rider to a suitable horse will come easily to him so accept his judgement if you want to have a trouble-free, enjoyable ride. He will no doubt tell you not to balance yourself with the reins. Doing this will upset the horse. Being continually tugged in the mouth is very disconcerting to the horse. If you feel unsteady, you should hold a piece of his mane or the horn or pommel of the saddle.

You may be given suggestions as to the most suitable clothing to wear. Always wear sensible footwear. It is easy for your foot to slip through the stirrup and you could be dragged. If it is summer don't forget a hat. For those who want to go horseback riding Michigan residents will have a number of options from which to choose.




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