Common Questions About Horseback Riding
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Sometimes, non-horse people ask questions about horses that just set your teeth on edge. Here are a few I’ve encountered and the answers I wish I had the wherewithal to give at the time. And I’ve got some snarky answers too. I’m just too polite to share them.
Why Ride a Horse?
I once was talking to a distant family member and she mentioned her daughter had been taking riding lessons. She had decided not to take her daughter anymore, because after all, what would riding ever lead to? Hmmm... a healthy life-long activity? Fun and cameraderie? An opportunity to bond with and understand an animal companion and learn patience, empathy, consistency and confidence. A chance to compete, grow and learn? And that scratches the surface doesn’t it? With all the benefits I think it’s more difficult to find reasons not to ride.
Is It Difficult to Ride a Horse?
You’re just sitting there, right? Not really. Good riding looks effortless. But, it really only looks effortless. Sometimes it’s really more like a duck paddling madly against a strong current. There’s a lot going on under the surface, while above all looks calm and unruffled. Now, there are moments, and every rider has them occasionally, where everything feels effortless too. That’s not because riding a horse isn’t difficult. It’s more likely to be the moment when hard won skill, meets talent and athleticism with a little good luck thrown in. That’s not to say horseback riding is gruellingly difficult either. As riders, we get to choose the type of rider we want to be, whether casual backyard pleasure rider or Grand Prix competition rider. Competing at the higher levels takes more commitment, time and money. But that doesn’t mean pleasure riders don’t work at their riding too. Sitting in front of the TV. That’s not difficult. But riding a horse? You get to choose your level of difficulty, but none of it is couch-potato easy.
Is Horseback Riding a Sport?
We’ve answered this question before haven’t we? First, define sport. Does horseback riding require skill and athleticism? Do you burn calories and get your heart rate up? Do you get all sorts of mental exercise that includes things like problem solving, planning and memorization? Is there a competitive aspect about horseback riding? Is there risk? Are there rules? Even if you say yes to just a few of these questions, you’re well on your way to the definition of sport. It’s even an Olympic sport!
Is Horseback Riding Costly?
Some types of horseback riding are more costly than others. And, if you can’t afford to own a horse, there are ways to get your riding fix and still be able to afford groceries. We know the purchase price of a horse is just the beginning. Whether you buy a $1000 horse or $40,000 horse some of the basics are the same. They need to eat, have their hooves cared for and some basic regular veterinary care. You’ll also need to buy some gear. This can all add up. So if you can’t afford your own horse, there are ways to ride other people’s. Good riders can catch rides at shows. You can part board and pay a fee to use someone else’s horse. You can take riding lessons. Or, you might be able to work off riding time by shoveling manure. A good rider, who is willing to work is never without a horse. Of course, there are ways to make riding very costly, such as owning more than one horse, showing, buying custom tack, a truck and trailer, and following every new training and gear fad that comes along. So beyond the basics, each of us determines just how costly horseback riding is.
The snarky answer I really wanted to give: Didn’t you know I’m filthy rich? Don’t let the manure on my cracked rubber boots fool you. Underneath these are Coco Chanel socks. Really. |
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