Folks back home

Leave a map of your route when riding out on trail and the approximate
time you will return. That way the folks back home will know when to
start worrying and where to look if you are overdue.

Experienced riding instructor

The safest way to learn to ride is with an experienced riding
instructor or coach

The safest way

The safest way to learn to ride is with an experienced riding
instructor or coach.

white horse

The safest way to learn to ride is with an experienced coach on a
quiet school horse. An instructor can teach you safe riding skills
like stopping and turning, and how to cue for transitions between
gaits.

A helmet

A helmet, proper footwear and safety stirrups, and good riding skills
will help to keep you safe in the saddle.

Emotional & Spiritual

For many a horse is a connection with nature whether they ride in the
ring or down the trail. Many people find companionship and solace
while working with their horse. Although riding can present its
frustrations and challenges, most people find it a relaxing pastime.
The camaraderie of people who enjoy similar activities is also
appealing. It's fun to get together with friends for a lesson, team
endeavor such as mounted games or drill riding, or a trail ride.

If you crave solitude, riding or driving can provide that as well.
Many horse owners feel their horse is somewhat of a kindred spirit in
tune with their own feelings and emotions; more so than any human
companion. In times of stress a horse can be a quiet friend, who is
without judgment or guile.

horse is a challenge

Mental

At first you may feel that just learning to stay on and steer the
horse is a challenge. When that becomes easy, many more learning
opportunities present themselves. As you progress with riding and
horse ownership you will always have questions and problems. Even the
most experienced equestrian would admit there is always something new
to learn.

horseback riding may look like just sitting

From the outside, horseback riding may look like just sitting and that
all a rider has to do is give the horse some simple instructions like
go, whoa, and turn. In carrying the rider the horse is doing all the
work, right? Wrong. There is far more to horseback riding than the
casual observer might expect. And, there are benefits beyond simple
enjoyment; physically, mentally and emotionally.