The Basics Of Western Riding

Get in the saddle and experience the thrills, challenges, and fun of Western riding! In this comprehensive introductory guide, veteran trainer Charlene Strickland covers everything from safe horse handling procedures and basic Western riding techniques to stylish competition outfits. With plenty of encouragement and a contagious passion, Strickland provides easy-to-follow riding instructions along with expert advice on evaluating horses and appropriate tack. You’ll soon be enjoying pleasurable rides both in the training ring and out on the trail.

Western Horsemanship requires balance, finesse, and above all, effective communication between horse and rider. Not only is Western Horsemanship an important and popular horse show class, but it is also the foundation for such other competitive events as reining, roping, trail, and working cow horse. From selecting a suitable horse, necessary tack and equipment, and preparing for competition to winning strategies for the show arena, 101 Western Pleasure and Horsemanship Tips is an essential guide for all Western riders.

You’ve always dreamed of riding horses. So what are you waiting for? It’s time you realized your equestrian dreams and learned to ride like a pro on the back of a noble steed. And Horseback Riding for Dummies shows you how. Don’t know a horse’s head from its tail, a trot from a canter, withers from a fetlock? No problem. Coauthored by a medal-winning equestrian and nationally respected equestrian trainer, it tells you what you need to know about that elegant animal, body and soul, to become an accomplished rider. And it trains you in all the technical basics of riding for fun or competition, including how to: Find a good stable and instructor Select riding gear Warm up and keep riding muscles fit Establish a rapport with a horse Cue a horse to walk, jog, trot, lope, and cantor Ride in the ring and on trails Improve your balance and timing Compete in horse shows Buy and care for your own horse Stop dreaming about it and learn to ride like the wind with Horseback Riding for Dummies—the ultimate beginner’s guide to all things equestrian.

This highly visual collection of riding exercises will build specific Western riding skills and foster greater communication between horse and rider. Effective step-by-step lessons feature a complete description of gaits and movements, purpose and benefits, analysis and instructions, cautions, and tips for better performance.

Newly updated and extended, Advanced Western Riding joins the experience and enthusiasm of equestrienne Kara L. Stewart with the wisdom of Horse Illustrated to bring this definitive guide to advanced western riders. The book goes beyond the fundamentals to teach readers how to refine their riding skills--from the right mental attitude to the proper seat and hands to advanced schooling techniques and competitions. Complete with step-by-step instructions, countless tips, full-color photos, and an easy-to-use glossary, this guide takes the guesswork out of advanced western riding.

Recently updated and extended, The Horse Illustrated Guide to Western Riding covers the fundamentals;from loping and galloping to trail riding and showing. Complete with step-by-step instructions, countless tips, full-color photos, and an easy-to-use glossary, this book takes the guesswork out of western riding.

Riding Western introduces the newcomer to the basics of Western riding, including the conversion of the English horse and rider. Every aspect of this style of riding--the equipment, the clothing, the Spanish nomenclature--is carefully explained, as is the history and reasoning behind it.