Guide for New Riders (2022)

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Guide for New Riders

Getting started with horseback riding

Certified riding coaches: Why choose one

Helmet safety 101

Are you ready to own a horse?

PHOTO CREDIT: BENNETT MURPHY

How to use this guide If you or a family member is interested in learning to ride horses, or maybe you want to return to the sport after many years off, we encourage you to make this year the year you start riding!

Riding has no age restrictions – it’s for the young and the young at heart! There is something for everyone, whether you choose to ride for fun or to compete. The bond and mutual trust between horses and humans can be absolutely amazing.

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Riding lessons are the best way to get started (or re-started) in riding. No matter your age or experience level, riding lessons will help you develop the correct skills in a safe environment.

We encourage you to find a certified riding coach with the training to tailor a lesson plan to your goals, learning style and abilities.

This guide has everything you need to get started.

We hope to see you in the saddle soon!

GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

PHOTO CREDIT: 9 FINGER RANCH

Special Thanks

WHAT’S INSIDE

Bennett Murphy Christine Budzak

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Horseback riding: Good for the body and mind

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12 reasons to learn to ride

Jodi Baxter Laurie Dixon Linda Hazelwood Rusty Barton

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Getting started with horseback riding

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Quick tips for staying safe around horses

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Do you speak horse?

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Helmet safety 101

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Certified riding coaches: Why choose one

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Programs to develop your riding and horse care skills

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MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL

What to expect in your riding progress

Tanis Jones 9 Finger Ranch

PUBLISHED BY

Manitoba Horse Council 145 Pacific Avenue Winnipeg, MB, R3B 2Z6 204-925-5719 manitobahorsecouncil.ca

Owning your own horse: Are you ready?

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www.ManitobaHorseCouncil.ca Order with your membership

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MHC MAKES NO ENDORSEMENTS ON THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES ADVERTISED.

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PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTINE BUDZAK

Horseback riding: Good for the body & mind Horseback riding has many great health benefits for your physical body and mental health. It is a great way to combine a love for horses with the benefits of exercise.

While it may look like the horse is doing all the work, nothing could be further from the truth. A one-hour ride can burn as many calories as jogging (depending on the intensity of the ride). It is a cardiovascular exercise that activates many major muscle groups – you’ll discover that after your first ride!

In fact, some high schools may accept horseback riding as a physical education credit. Consult with your child’s gym teacher to find out if this applies to your family.

Horseback riding also has excellent mental health benefits. Being outside and enjoying the fresh air and

countryside is a great stress reducer. Physical activity can improve our mood and reduce anxiety.

Developing a relationship with a horse has positive effects on people of all ages and backgrounds (which is why it’s widely used in therapeutic riding programs).

Learning to manage and care for an animal boosts confidence, develops respect and provides a sense of responsibility. People who take up horseback riding often experience a greater sense of self-esteem and self-image in their daily life.

See what horseback riding can do for your physical and mental health. Then, start exploring riding lesson programs in your area. This guide has everything you need to get started.

What is equestrian? This word applies to any activity related to horseback riding, horseback riders or horse driving (where the horse pulls a cart or carriage).

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GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

PHOTO CREDIT: LINDA HAZELWOOD

12 Reasons to Learn to Ride 1.

Improve your balance, mobility and muscle strength

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Learn planning and organization skills

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Boost your coordination, reflexes and motor skills

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Increase your focus and attention

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Boost your critical thinking, recall and attention

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Stretch tense muscles

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Reduce the tightening and stiffening of muscles

10. Build your self-image and self-esteem

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Improve your cardio fitness and circulation

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Develop better visual-spatial perception and eye-hand coordination

11. Improve patience, emotional control, self-discipline and confidence

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12. Get comfortable socializing with others in a supportive environment

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PHOTO CREDIT: TANIS JONES

Getting started with horseback riding So your child loves horses and wants to ride? Or maybe you, as an adult, want to start the sport of riding. You don’t have to buy a horse to learn to ride.

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No matter your age – taking lessons at an equestrian facility that offers riding lessons on trusty school horses can be the best way to begin your equestrian journey.

Choosing a riding facility can seem like a daunting task, but there are things you can look for and questions you can ask to help you make an informed decision.

GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

Step 1

Find a coach

There’s a lot to learn about horseback riding and safely interacting with horses. That’s why Manitoba Horse Council recommends learning from a certified coach.

You can feel confident knowing you’re learning from someone knowledgeable, professional, ethical and able to handle any accidents that might happen in a horseback riding lesson.

Like any professional, coaches are expected to stay up-to-date with the latest training and certifications.

Coaches who are certified with Equestrian Canada – a national sports body – have the following credentials: National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) training, such as “Making Ethical Decisions” ethics training and “Making Head Way in Sport” concussion evaluation Safe Sport Training, to identify and prevent situations of maltreatment First Aid certificate Criminal Record Check Child Abuse Registry Check

You can find a coach in your area by visiting manitobahorsecouncil.ca.

Once you find a coach, call or meet with them and ask these questions: •

“Do you offer a lesson program for a beginner rider?” (If they do not, ask if they can recommend another coach.)

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“What kind of experience do you have teaching riders at my level?”

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“Are your coaching certifications up-to-date?”

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“Do you have your own riding lesson facility, or is there a facility that you teach out of? Where is the facility located?”

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“Can you provide references, or can I speak with one of your lesson students?”

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“May I have your NCCP number to check your credentials in your Coaching Locker?”

To view the coach’s credentials, go to: thelocker.coach.ca/access/account/public If they meet your expectations, it’s time to tour the riding facility where they offer their lesson program.

Step 2 Tour the riding facility Schedule a time to meet the coach at the riding facility where they teach lessons. Look for the following signs of a safe, well-run riding stable:

The riding area is in an indoor arena or is enclosed by a solid fence, and there is a door or gate to enter and exit the riding area.

The stable, horse paddocks and riding area are tidy and well-maintained.

The riding area is free of clutter, and only the items to be used in the lesson are in the riding area (e.g. ground poles, jumps, barrels, etc.).

There is a secure, enclosed area for riders to prepare their horses for riding.

The aisles and walkways are free of tripping hazards.

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The atmosphere of the facility is friendly, welcoming and fun.

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Step 3

Meet the horses

When you tour the riding facility, ask to meet the horses you may be riding in your lesson.

Horses used in schooling lessons come in all shapes and sizes. The primary talents of a beginner school horse are good manners and an even, forgiving temperament.

Signs the horse is uncomfortable or poorly behaved can include the following: •

Lameness or limping

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Ears pinned back

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Tossing head, swishing tail or kicking when no flies are bothering the horse

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Biting at people or other horses

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Rearing or bucking

PHOTO CREDIT: LAURIE DIXON – MADIXPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

The healthy lesson horse is well fed and relatively clean with no untreated cuts or wounds. They should walk freely and willingly without any signs of discomfort. They should also look calm and relaxed in lessons.

Step 4 Watch a riding lesson Next, ask the coach if you can watch a lesson.

If you have a friend acquainted with horses and riding, ask them to join you to observe.

When watching the lesson, look for these signs of an effective coaching style:

While there are many teaching styles, a good coach will recognize the needs of their students and make adjustments to help them learn and be successful. Good coaches also set a theme or goal for each lesson, and they’ll explain how the exercises used in the lesson will help students achieve that goal.

The coach clearly explains the goals and exercises for the lesson.

There are no more than 8 riders in the lesson.

The riders ask questions and get helpful answers.

Every rider receives individual attention and support from the coach.

The coach is patient and positive throughout the lesson.

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GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

Step 5 Get ready to ride If the facility, horses and coaching style check all the boxes, let the coach know you’d like to join their lesson program. The next important step is to make sure you have the right clothing and equipment for riding lessons.

While you don’t need to purchase an entire riding wardrobe at this point, there are a few must-haves that will make your experience safer and more comfortable.

ASTM Certified Riding Helmet This is the single most important piece of equipment you need to own. Approved ASTM riding helmets must be properly fitted to stay in place during riding.

Riding helmets are designed specifically for riding and the injuries a rider could experience. That’s why substituting a helmet from another sport, such as a hockey or bike helmet, is not safe.

A reputable tack shop – a store that sells equipment for horses and riders – will carry certified helmets, and they can help find one that fits properly.

Avoid using a second-hand helmet because you won’t know if its safety features have been damaged. Read more about helmet safety on page 16.

Comfortable, fitted clothing Fitted jeans or long pants work fine when starting out. Avoid loose-fitting clothing or polyester leggings, which can be slippery in the saddle. Shorts are never a good choice for horseback riding – your legs will get rubbed and pinched by the saddle.

If you’re taking lessons in an English saddle, you might want to purchase a pair of riding breeches. They are specially designed riding pants that provide grip and comfort in an English saddle.

Things to know about hair and jewellery Loose-fitting clothing and accessories can get caught when riding or working around horses, so leave scarves and jewellery at home. Tie long hair in a ponytail or braid, and remove your cell phone and loose objects from your pockets before you get on a horse.

You’re well on your way to becoming a capable horseback rider! Enjoy your riding lessons!

Proper Footwear Wear any comfortable boots that have a one-half to one-inch heel, which will prevent your foot from slipping through the stirrup. Make sure the sole is not too thick so you can easily remove your foot from the stirrup. Boots that go over your ankle will give you extra support and stability. If there are laces on your boots, tie them securely before getting on.

PHOTO CREDIT: TANIS JONES

Will I need to buy a saddle or a bridle? The riding facility and coach should provide all the necessary tack and equipment for the horse you will be riding.

MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL

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OFFERS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

MHC MAKES NO ENDORSEMENTS ON THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES ADVERTISED.

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PHOTO CREDIT: LAURIE DIXON – MADIXPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Quick tips for staying safe around horses Horses can be lots of fun, but they are large animals that deserve our respect. Remember these safety tips when you are at a stable:

Never wrap a lead rope or reins around your hand or any part of your body. You could be dragged or seriously injured if the horse spooks (gets startled).

Always be calm around your horse. Speak quietly and firmly.

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Move calmly and make sure the horse sees or hears you approach.

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Wear closed-toe shoes or boots when grooming or tacking up (putting the saddle and equipment on) a horse.

Involving parents and caregivers

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Don’t sit or kneel when working around a horse’s legs. You need to get out of the way quickly if your horse moves.

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Tie your horse with a quick-release knot to a solid object that won’t move around if the horse pulls back. Make sure the lead is short enough that the horse won’t get its legs tangled.

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When leading a horse, walk on the left side between the head and shoulders. When turning, guide the horse to step away from you.

Stables and coaches have different rules about how closely a parent or caregiver is involved during tacking and lessons. For safety, caregivers should stay out of the riding ring during lessons.

Some facilities have a designated viewing area where caregivers can watch lessons.

No matter the sport, children should never be left in the sole charge of a single adult. There should always be two adults around – two certified coaches or one coach plus a caregiver.

GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

Do you speak horse?

Horses are sensitive to the feelings of their riders and handlers. That’s why the best “horse whisperers” are people who can read a horse’s body language, understand their nature and act calmly and quietly around them.

These signs can tell you how your horse is feeling.

Ears Alert And Forward

Ears Flat And Back

Ears pricked alert and facing forward indicates the horse is happy and interested.

Ears laid flat back against the neck show the horse is unhappy or annoyed.

Ears Lowered

Flickering or Swiveling Ears

Ears lowered slightly to the sides show the horse is relaxed, bored or may not be feeling well.

Flickering ears indicates that the horse is listening and attentive.

MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL

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PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTINE BUDZAK

Helmet safety 101 Wearing a properly fitted riding helmet is essential to keeping your head safe while riding or driving. A fall from a horse or carriage can cause traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can negatively affect cognitive functioning and personality.

A TBI can range from mild to severe, and the side effects vary.

It is important to remember that not all sport helmets are created equally. Riding helmets are designed with the latest in safety technology and are tested to international standards so that they are guaranteed to offer the most comprehensive protection possible.

Helmets designed for other activities – such as bicycling or skiing – are not tested for the same fall scenarios that an equestrian will encounter.

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Head injuries are avoidable in so many situations.

‘Fashion’ should never trump common sense and safety.

Mike King, CapriCMW From Canadian Horse Journal

GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

How do I fit a riding helmet properly?

In addition to meeting at least one national safety standard, the safest helmet is the one that fits properly.

So when you start the search for a helmet, consider your budget, your discipline and the level you ride.

Here’s how to ensure the correct fit. A reputable tack shop that sells helmets can help you work through this checklist. Keep in mind that different makes and models of helmets will fit differently, so take the time to try on several helmets.

Each helmet manufacturer can provide a helmet manual that details how to fit and care for your helmet.

How do I check the certification?

All riding helmets should be certified by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) to ASTM F1163, which means that their ability to protect against traumatic brain injury has been tested. If a helmet has been approved by SEI to meet the ASTM standard, it will have a logo visible on the helmet’s lining. In addition, some companies test for multiple safety standards to ensure a broader range of protection across more fall types. These range from a fall on hard ground or concrete to an impact on a sharp surface, such as the edge of a jump.

Start by measuring the circumference of your head. Wrap a tape measure around your head where the helmet will sit: one centimetre above the eyebrows and around the slight bump at the base of the skull.

The circumference in centimetres will determine Did you know that the size range that your wearing a riding helmet helmet will fall into.

When you try on a helmet, style your hair as you’ll wear it when riding. A low ponytail, low bun or braid is best for helmet fit. It has been fashionable for women to stuff long hair under their helmets, but this technique compromises the helmet’s fit and safety.

can protect other riders too? It sets an example for fellow equestrians.

You could save their lives if they follow suit and strap on a helmet!

When trying on helmets, take them on and off at least three times to allow them to mold slightly to your head. A new helmet will feel snug in the same way that a new pair of boots feel. Both will break in and mould to your head or feet respectively as they are worn. However, a new helmet should not have any pressure points.

Grab the brim of the helmet and try to rock it forward and backward. It should be snug enough that it moves the skin of your forehead – it should not be so loose that it slides over your forehead and hair.

Tighten the helmet’s chin strap until it feels snug, with just enough room to fit two fingers between it and your chin.

MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL

How do I care for my helmet?

Helmets are sensitive to extreme heat (70°C+/158°F+) and should be stored out of direct sunlight. Helmets should also never be dry-cleaned or put in the dishwasher. If your helmet becomes wet, allow it to fully dry before storing it.

How often do I need to replace my helmet?

If you have hit your head in a fall, your helmet should be replaced. Even if there is no visible damage to the outside of the helmet, the material inside the helmet can be compressed and will no longer offer you the same protection should you fall again.

Most manufacturers recommend replacing your helmet every five years – even when it looks to be in great condition. That’s because most helmets have expiry dates.

Avoid purchasing used helmets. You do not know how well they’ve been cared for or if they’ve been in a fall, and therefore, you don’t know how effectively they’ll protect your head.

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PHOTOS USED WITH PERMISSION OF KATHLYN HOSSACK. PHOTO CREDIT: BENNETT MURPHY

Certified Riding Coaches: Why choose one The National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) is a governmentinitiated program designed to give the public safe, qualified instructors and coaches at every level of all sports.

Coaches have a big responsibility!

There are thousands of Canadian children and adults involved in riding lessons. The stables, instructors and coaches that work with these riders have a duty to provide safe, qualified and professional service.

Read on to learn about the different types of equestrian coaching certification available in Canada.

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GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTINE BUDZAK

Equestrian Canada’s expectations for coaches Manitoba Horse Council follows the Equestrian Canada (EC) Guidelines for coaching certification.

EC runs a nationally recognized certification program for equestrian coaches and instructors, developed with the NCCP, the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) and Sport Canada.

Coaches who work to get their certification as an EC Instructor or Coach demonstrate that they’re professional and accountable. It means they abide by the standards of ethics and the Equine Code of Conduct. They are also skilled in first aid and safety procedures. A certified instructor or coach also has the equestrian knowledge, technical competency and a commitment to meeting and maintaining high standards through ongoing training and education.

There are four levels of EC Coaching certification available to instructors: Instructor This level is designed for coaches who want to instruct children and adults in learning to ride. The Instructorlevel coaching goal is to teach foundational riding skills with an eye on safety.

Competition Coach This level is designed for coaches who want to instruct riders in a competitive environment. Competition coaches have more advanced skills in developing training programs tailored for individual competitors.

In addition, they can provide performance analysis and assist with mental preparation for competitions.

All active, certified EC coaches in Manitoba are listed at manitobahorsecouncil.ca.

MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL

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Competition Coach Specialist This level is a progression of the Competition Coach level, and it is designed for coaches who want to instruct riders competing at the provincial and national levels. Competition Coach Specialists have a working knowledge of the Equestrian Canada competition rules for the level and discipline they are teaching.

High Performance Coach This level is run by Equestrian Canada. These coaches specialize in developing athletes preparing for competition at the national and international levels.

Certified Horsemanship Association’s expectations for coaches The Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) offers certification as an instructor of riding theory and how to apply it in a group riding setting. The training deals with progressive skill building in all levels of riders, primarily in an enclosed riding arena. Coaches can get CHA certification in English or Western disciplines.

You can find a CHA coach at cha.horse.

Canadian Pony Club’s expectations for coaches Canadian Pony Club is a member-based association managed by volunteers. It serves the needs of Canadian youth, ages 6 to 25 years of age, who are interested in riding, learning about and/or caring for horses or ponies. Coaches teach riders about all aspects of horseback riding and horse care.

Learn more at canadianponyclub.org.

Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association’s expectations for coaches The Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) is a registered charity that promotes challenge, achievement and empowerment for children and adults with disabilities through the use of the horse. CanTRA also provides education and instructor certification.

Two Manitoba programs that offer lessons with CanTRA certified instructors: Prairie Strides (prairiestrides.ca) and Urban Stable (urbanstable.ca).

They require a referral, so contact them to learn more.

Wherever there is an athlete, there is a coach. coach.ca

PHOTO USED WITH PERMISSION OF CANADIAN PONY CLUB – MANITOBA REGION. PHOTO CREDIT: RUSTY BARTON

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GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

What to expect in your riding progress In riding lessons, you should feel challenged but not pushed beyond your limits. A good riding coach will know what is best for you and tailor a lesson program to suit your abilities and goals.

Wondering how fast you should be progressing in your horseback riding training and skills development? Every rider learns at their own pace, but if you’re taking one lesson per week, here are some general guidelines on what you can expect:

After 4-5 riding lessons: Introduction to horses

After 6 months of weekly riding lessons:

Introduction to basic horse handling with an emphasis on safety

Greater knowledge of riding theory and the principles of horse care

Basic horse equipment and care

More confidence in controlling your horse while riding

Riding Skills: mount (get on the horse), dismount (get off the horse), the correct riding position, and how to ask the horse to walk, stop and turn

Practicing riding patterns (such as figure eights and serpentines) Riding skills: introduction to lateral work, gait transitions, balance, twopoint position (English), riding with one hand (Western)

After 1 year of weekly riding lessons: Independently able to tack up a horse Greater knowledge of equipment and horse anatomy Practicing bending, straightness and impulsion Introduction to different riding disciplines (such as jumping or reining) and horse shows Riding skills: walk, trot and posting trot (on correct diagonal), canter or lope, learn the correct canter leads, understand the rein aids

I am not interested in competing at horse shows. Should I still take lessons?

Of course! Riding lessons give you the knowledge and skills needed to be a safe and effective rider. Everyone has their own riding goals, and horse shows aren’t the only way to measure your progress.

Turn the page to find out more!

MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL

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PHOTO CREDIT: LINDA HAZELWOOD

Programs to develop your riding and horse care skills No matter the pace that you progress in your riding, you can still achieve goals and stay motivated by participating in any one of these rewarding certification programs.

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Test your skills and progress to more advanced levels of riding while learning more about horseback riding and horse care.

If you or your child is interested in learning more about the above programs, visit manitobahorsecouncil.ca.

GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

P’tit Trot This introductory program is for children five years of age or older who love horses and want to learn about riding and caring for horses. The P’tit Trot handbook introduces beginners to the basics of English and Western and how to care for a horse or pony. This program is fun and educational. It prepares children for riding camps or the Equestrian Canada’s Learn to Ride program.

Learn to Ride This non-competitive national program teaches safe horsemanship and practices for English and Western riders. Western Learn to Ride evaluates an individual’s skills through levels 1-4 and an intermediate level.

English Learn to Ride offers Levels 1 through 10. It’s designed to help riders who would like to advance their riding skills on the flat or in jumping. Successful participants are rewarded with Certificates of Achievement.

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTINE BUDZAK

Pony Club The Canadian Pony Club curriculum has been carefully designed to give members a solid foundation of horsemanship and stable management knowledge and skills. The gradual progression of difficulty guides and prepares members to successfully achieve testing levels from Beginner through to Advanced. Although testing is not mandatory, it is encouraged to help set benchmarks for members.

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTINE BUDZAK

4-H 4-H is a leadership development program that gives youth in rural areas the opportunity to raise and care for animals and livestock. Rural living areas may also have High School Rodeo programs.

I have a child who loves horses. How old do they need to be to start riding lessons? Some riding facilities have a minimum age for children to begin lessons. A certified coach can help you determine when your child is ready.

MANITOBA HORSE COUNCIL

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Owning your own horse: Are you ready?

Many adult beginners and parents whose children want to ride are under the misconception that they must immediately incur the costs of purchasing a horse. Or, they have taken some riding lessons and think the next step must be to purchase a horse. While most riders dream of owning their own, buying a horse is not a decision that needs to be hurried.

Horses are a lot of work, and the responsibility of owning one costs considerably more than just taking riding lessons.

Even if you are ready to take on the cost and the time investment to own a horse, you must have the necessary skills and knowledge to care for and safely handle it.

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PHOTO CREDIT: LAURIE DIXON – MADIXPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

The good news is that there are options for riders who want a taste of horse ownership without the long-term commitment.

Part-board a horse Part boarding is an arrangement whereby a rider enters into an agreement with the horse owner to share the use of the horse for a specified time commitment each week. For example, a typical partboard can be three rides a week, one of which the partboarder is required to take a lesson.

The owner is responsible for the financial cost of the care and upkeep of the horse, and the part-boarder GUIDE FOR NEW RIDERS

often contributes to that cost by paying a set monthly fee to the owner. Sharing expenses and responsibilities make horse ownership more manageable for both the owner and the part-boarder.

Lease a horse Leasing is an arrangement that more closely resembles horse ownership. Some horse owners will lease out horses for a specified time, such as six months or a year. During that time, the lessee will be responsible for the care and upkeep of the horse, including stabling, feed, veterinary costs and farrier costs (hoof care). Leasing is often chosen when riders are ready to move up a level and need a seasoned horse to help them achieve their riding goals.

Get help from an expert Whether you decide to own, part-board or lease a horse, consult your riding coach first. They will assess your abilities and know the kind of horse you need to move up to the next level in your riding. Only a knowledgeable, trustworthy horse person can help you find an equine partner that complements your personality, skills and goals. They will also consult with a veterinarian to confirm that the horse is healthy and capable of doing what you ask.

Tip:

PHOTO CREDIT: JODI BAXTER

The best way to develop your skills and learn what you need in an equine partner is to ride a variety of horses.

Riding different horses will develop your skills, make you adaptable and give you the opportunity to meet different types of horses.

Learn the basics of horse health

Whether you own, part-board or lease a horse, it’s always a good idea to know the basic vital signs of a healthy horse: A mature horse’s body temperature should be between 36.6° C and 37.8° C (98° F and 100.1° F).

A mature horse at rest will take 8-16 breaths per minute.

A mature horse at rest will have a pulse of 36-42 beats per minute when measured at the jugular vein under the cheekbone.

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The horse’s gums and the membranes around their eyes should be salmon-pink in colour.

A mature horse should drink between 6-10 gallons (27-45 litres) of water a day. Ask a knowledgeable horse person to show you the “skin pinch test” to understand if your horse is dehydrated.

If your horse’s vital signs fall outside of these averages, notify the horse owner (in the case of a lease or part-board) and call an equine veterinarian for advice.

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However you start your riding journey, start with Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) Many stables require riders and boarders to hold an MHC membership because it gives you insurance coverage in the event of an accident or injury.

And there’s more to membership than insurance.

From services and information to benefits not found anywhere else, MHC offers a special set of perks for horse owners, riders and drivers across the province.

Here are a few reasons why more than 2,000 horse enthusiasts are MHC members: •

Every member receives industry-leading insurance coverage at preferred rates.

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Only members can participate in MHC and Equestrian Canada programs.

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Members get insider updates on equine events, learning opportunities, scholarships and grants, and equestrian news.

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Only members get exclusive access to special discounts from businesses and professionals serving the equestrian community.

We invite you to join your fellow horse enthusiasts today! It only takes 10 minutes to sign-up for a membership online at manitobahorsecouncil.ca.

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ABOUT US Manitoba Horse Council (MHC) is a not-for-profit organization representing clubs and individual members involved in equine activity in Manitoba. MHC is the recognized governing body for equestrian sport in the province; providing support, leadership and resources to develop athletes and protect the interests of Manitoba’s equestrian enthusiasts.

ADDRESS

CONTACT US

145 Pacific Avenue Winnipeg, MB, R3B 2Z6

(204) 925-5719 manitobahorsecouncil.ca

Published in April 2022