Introductory horseback riding courses and lessons with a certified instructor are recommended for children over 7 years old and adults. Sessions begin in the riding arena and are designed to introduce riders to the art of horseback riding in a controlled, confined environment. Some theoretical concepts regarding horse psychology and tacking up are covered, but the emphasis is on the practical aspects: mounted exercises, starting and stopping, steering, trotting on the lunge and free trotting.
Afterward, the sessions take place on open trails in small groups, so that participants can put what they’ve learned in the arena into practice and add a touch of excitement and adventure.
Horseback riding offers countless benefits for people, both physically and psychologically.
Clinical studies have shown that being around a horse leads to changes in brain wave patterns; horses have a calming effect that helps people stop dwelling on the past or on certain negative events in their lives, providing them with a positive experience.
