Jun
25
How To Regain Your Horseback Riding Confidence
Filed Under Pets | Comments Off
Margarethe De Clermont asked:
Nothing diminishes anxiety faster than action. ~Walter Anderson
If you have lost your riding confidence for some reason or another, if thinking of riding, jumping, competing, loading your horse fills you with dread, think about Mr Anderson’s words.
You need to do something about it.
And not just try to do something about it. “Try” is a word that should be used with great care. If you’re like most people, when you “try” to do something, that means you are giving less than your full effort to it. If you’re going to do something, just do it.
When you try to do shoulder-in, or attempt a jump, or try to load, it gets very confusing for your horse. Are we going to jump over this thing…or not? Does she want me to do shoulder-in… or not? Is she seriously expecting me to get onto this trailer?
That’s not to say that you shouldn’t proceed with caution or take the time to plan and prepare properly. This isn’t about throwing all caution to the winds; it’s about the intensity of energy you put forth when you decide to take action. Make up your mind. Merely trying is pointless. You either do, or you do not.
Regretfully, just because you put your full effort into something doesn’t always mean that you will be successful. Do not allow this to put you off. Do not regard mistakes as failures, embrace them as learning opportunities. Sometimes you may need to do something dozens of times before you’ll get the result you want. To succeed, you need to give everything you have got, every time. If you can’t, take a break.
“Trying” is for those people who doubt their ability to do something. It means they would like a successful outcome but sincerely doubt they’ll get one. When you start something with such a negative focus, it’s no surprise it doesn’t work out very well. Instead, make it your mission to simply do it - and do your best - whatever you are planning to do. If the outcome is less than you hoped for, do it again. Or do it differently. Don’t waste time “trying” to do anything. It’s a complete waste of your horse’s attention span and energy.
Talking about taking action…most of us are great learners. We love to read, watch, listen to, and absorb new ideas like a sponge. We love exploring new techniques and ideas to better our riding, improve our relationship with our horse, master new riding skills, and so on. However, when we spend all of our time searching for that “latest, greatest” book or instructor or talented horse, nothing gets done. What we forget is that the most helpful material out there is only as valuable as our ability to put it into practice.
If we take even the most moderately helpful ideas and put them into action, we immediately reap the rewards. Rather than having a vague wisp of knowledge rattling around in our minds, we now have a solid addition to our riding progress. With each new book or video we buy, we can increase the value we receive from it by taking time to work with the techniques or ideas before moving on to something else.
Do yourself a favour: take action now. Don’t wait until tomorrow. Don’t fool yourself into believing that you have all the time in the world. Don’t waste time trying. Don’t waste time reading yet another book or watching yet another video.
Don’t let another day go by without taking positive action. If you begin by taking even small but determined steps forward, you will gain confidence. Your horse will gain confidence. Your understanding of each other will deepen. Before long, you’ll both grow to love the feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction you get from moving forward.
Action reduces anxiety. If you want to regain your riding confidence, be active.
So don’t just sit there Go clean the tack.
GILBERT
Nothing diminishes anxiety faster than action. ~Walter Anderson
If you have lost your riding confidence for some reason or another, if thinking of riding, jumping, competing, loading your horse fills you with dread, think about Mr Anderson’s words.
You need to do something about it.
And not just try to do something about it. “Try” is a word that should be used with great care. If you’re like most people, when you “try” to do something, that means you are giving less than your full effort to it. If you’re going to do something, just do it.
When you try to do shoulder-in, or attempt a jump, or try to load, it gets very confusing for your horse. Are we going to jump over this thing…or not? Does she want me to do shoulder-in… or not? Is she seriously expecting me to get onto this trailer?
That’s not to say that you shouldn’t proceed with caution or take the time to plan and prepare properly. This isn’t about throwing all caution to the winds; it’s about the intensity of energy you put forth when you decide to take action. Make up your mind. Merely trying is pointless. You either do, or you do not.
Regretfully, just because you put your full effort into something doesn’t always mean that you will be successful. Do not allow this to put you off. Do not regard mistakes as failures, embrace them as learning opportunities. Sometimes you may need to do something dozens of times before you’ll get the result you want. To succeed, you need to give everything you have got, every time. If you can’t, take a break.
“Trying” is for those people who doubt their ability to do something. It means they would like a successful outcome but sincerely doubt they’ll get one. When you start something with such a negative focus, it’s no surprise it doesn’t work out very well. Instead, make it your mission to simply do it - and do your best - whatever you are planning to do. If the outcome is less than you hoped for, do it again. Or do it differently. Don’t waste time “trying” to do anything. It’s a complete waste of your horse’s attention span and energy.
Talking about taking action…most of us are great learners. We love to read, watch, listen to, and absorb new ideas like a sponge. We love exploring new techniques and ideas to better our riding, improve our relationship with our horse, master new riding skills, and so on. However, when we spend all of our time searching for that “latest, greatest” book or instructor or talented horse, nothing gets done. What we forget is that the most helpful material out there is only as valuable as our ability to put it into practice.
If we take even the most moderately helpful ideas and put them into action, we immediately reap the rewards. Rather than having a vague wisp of knowledge rattling around in our minds, we now have a solid addition to our riding progress. With each new book or video we buy, we can increase the value we receive from it by taking time to work with the techniques or ideas before moving on to something else.
Do yourself a favour: take action now. Don’t wait until tomorrow. Don’t fool yourself into believing that you have all the time in the world. Don’t waste time trying. Don’t waste time reading yet another book or watching yet another video.
Don’t let another day go by without taking positive action. If you begin by taking even small but determined steps forward, you will gain confidence. Your horse will gain confidence. Your understanding of each other will deepen. Before long, you’ll both grow to love the feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction you get from moving forward.
Action reduces anxiety. If you want to regain your riding confidence, be active.
So don’t just sit there Go clean the tack.
GILBERT
Jun
25
Island Life is Just a 75-minute Boat Ride From L.a
Filed Under Travel | Comments Off
Cary Ordway asked:
Boarding the Catalina Express at Dana Point, we have the feeling we’re going to escape Southern California traffic and congestion in VERY short order. We are right. Within minutes, we’re “at sea” in the channel between Los Angeles and Catalina Island - no horns honking, no crawling along the freeway and no worries.
We’re on our way to Avalon, the picturesque little town built near the southern tip of Catalina Island. It’s just a 75-minute ride from the dock at Dana Point, and even a shorter distance from other points closer to L.A. Our slight trepidation about potential seasickness quickly evaporates as we see how well our sleek craft cuts through the moderate waves on what will become a perfect sunny Southern California day.
Along the way we see merchant vessels as well as a half-dozen or so 30-odd-foot pleasure craft obviously rigged for fishing and congregating at what must be a prime fishing ground. Later, to the port side we run a race with dozens of dolphins who seem intent on showing that anything man can do, they can do better.
Arriving in Avalon, the colorful, ornate - and, yes, expensive — homes arrayed on hillsides and mountain tops combine with the myriad of boats and other sea-going vessels to create the impression we have just been transported to the French Riviera. Not bad considering a roundtrip ticket on the Express was only about 45 bucks and when all is said and done, we’ll be home tonight for dinner.
But it’s obvious from the gear being packed off the Express that there are many more overnighters than daytrippers. On this particular voyage, the hold is chock-full of suitcases, packs, tents, coolers and everything that would allow one to wander off and get to know the island upclose and personal.
For us it’s a quick diversion from the rat race. We soon get our bearings on Crescent Street, the aptly-named street that follows the contour of the harbor. About six streets intersect with Crescent, all heading mauka (island-speak for “toward the mountains”). It’s in this tiny little grid that you find most of the shops, restaurants and other tourist services.
We’re traveling as a family today - mom, dad and three-year-old - so it’s a burger joint for lunch. But the burgers are tasty and quite reasonably priced. You’ll also be able to find finer dining and pricey menus to go with it.
On this warm summer day there is an abundance of families visiting with kids of all ages. But it’s also not difficult to find couples holding hands or checking into one of several boutique inns, or frolicking in the unusually warm ocean. In fact, it’s not much of a stretch to say that Catalina is good for both romantic couples and families. They peacefully co-exist on this little island, and neither experience seems negatively impacted by the other.
As Gwen Bronson explains, there are many opportunities for a couple to slip away on the island and do what romantics do. The many hotels and inns, just by themselves, are pretty darn romantic and, as Communications Director for the Catalina Chamber of Commerce, Gwen’s doing her job to point that out. But she’s also figuring we might want to look at one of several romantic adventures such as sea kayaking up the coast. In a very short distance you will find a beach that is not accessible by anyone who does not have a boat.
“Just visit the market and pick up your picnic lunch first and go about a half hour up the coast,” she says. “Ninety-nine percent of the time, you’ll have the whole beach to yourself.”
Or rent a golf cart and drive the many roads around Avalon - just $40 an hour. Horseback riding is always good for a romantic mood, as long as it doesn’t create any physical limitations. Botanical gardens are here for communing with Nature.
Like most visitors to Catalina, we find plenty to keep us occupied for the day. We enjoy people-watching in the outdoor cafes and exploring the winding roadways that climb out of Avalon to spectacular views of the harbor. In general, we just soak up this island atmosphere, recognizing it may be a while longer before we get back to the real French Riviera or anywhere else in the world with such island charm.
Our day on the island goes by quickly and the trip back to Dana Point is a relaxing end to a perfect Southern California daytrip. Soon we are back in San Diego, completely refreshed and relaxed, and ready to share stories about our daytrip to the “Riviera”.
AT A GLANCE
Where: Catalina Island is about 26 miles west of the L.A. area. There are four boat companies that service Catalina from seven ports in Orange and Los Angeles counties.
What: Catalina Island offers many recreational activities ranging from deep-sea fishing to horseback riding to hiking to snorkeling. There are also many attractions such as submarine rides and golf cart rentals.
When: Catalina is a great destination year-round, although the lowest prices are in the shoulder season, April-May and September-October. Most hotels offer lower prices then, but combo packages help reduce the overall cost of lodging and transportation any time of year. Several events are offered throughout the year, so check with the Chamber of Commerce for a listing.
Why: Catalina is close, easy to reach, incredibly picturesque and the perfect daytrip or getaway weekend for any living in or visiting Southern California.
How: Call the Catalina Chamber for a complete list of transportation and lodging options. Phone (310) 510-1520.
JOAN
Boarding the Catalina Express at Dana Point, we have the feeling we’re going to escape Southern California traffic and congestion in VERY short order. We are right. Within minutes, we’re “at sea” in the channel between Los Angeles and Catalina Island - no horns honking, no crawling along the freeway and no worries.
We’re on our way to Avalon, the picturesque little town built near the southern tip of Catalina Island. It’s just a 75-minute ride from the dock at Dana Point, and even a shorter distance from other points closer to L.A. Our slight trepidation about potential seasickness quickly evaporates as we see how well our sleek craft cuts through the moderate waves on what will become a perfect sunny Southern California day.
Along the way we see merchant vessels as well as a half-dozen or so 30-odd-foot pleasure craft obviously rigged for fishing and congregating at what must be a prime fishing ground. Later, to the port side we run a race with dozens of dolphins who seem intent on showing that anything man can do, they can do better.
Arriving in Avalon, the colorful, ornate - and, yes, expensive — homes arrayed on hillsides and mountain tops combine with the myriad of boats and other sea-going vessels to create the impression we have just been transported to the French Riviera. Not bad considering a roundtrip ticket on the Express was only about 45 bucks and when all is said and done, we’ll be home tonight for dinner.
But it’s obvious from the gear being packed off the Express that there are many more overnighters than daytrippers. On this particular voyage, the hold is chock-full of suitcases, packs, tents, coolers and everything that would allow one to wander off and get to know the island upclose and personal.
For us it’s a quick diversion from the rat race. We soon get our bearings on Crescent Street, the aptly-named street that follows the contour of the harbor. About six streets intersect with Crescent, all heading mauka (island-speak for “toward the mountains”). It’s in this tiny little grid that you find most of the shops, restaurants and other tourist services.
We’re traveling as a family today - mom, dad and three-year-old - so it’s a burger joint for lunch. But the burgers are tasty and quite reasonably priced. You’ll also be able to find finer dining and pricey menus to go with it.
On this warm summer day there is an abundance of families visiting with kids of all ages. But it’s also not difficult to find couples holding hands or checking into one of several boutique inns, or frolicking in the unusually warm ocean. In fact, it’s not much of a stretch to say that Catalina is good for both romantic couples and families. They peacefully co-exist on this little island, and neither experience seems negatively impacted by the other.
As Gwen Bronson explains, there are many opportunities for a couple to slip away on the island and do what romantics do. The many hotels and inns, just by themselves, are pretty darn romantic and, as Communications Director for the Catalina Chamber of Commerce, Gwen’s doing her job to point that out. But she’s also figuring we might want to look at one of several romantic adventures such as sea kayaking up the coast. In a very short distance you will find a beach that is not accessible by anyone who does not have a boat.
“Just visit the market and pick up your picnic lunch first and go about a half hour up the coast,” she says. “Ninety-nine percent of the time, you’ll have the whole beach to yourself.”
Or rent a golf cart and drive the many roads around Avalon - just $40 an hour. Horseback riding is always good for a romantic mood, as long as it doesn’t create any physical limitations. Botanical gardens are here for communing with Nature.
Like most visitors to Catalina, we find plenty to keep us occupied for the day. We enjoy people-watching in the outdoor cafes and exploring the winding roadways that climb out of Avalon to spectacular views of the harbor. In general, we just soak up this island atmosphere, recognizing it may be a while longer before we get back to the real French Riviera or anywhere else in the world with such island charm.
Our day on the island goes by quickly and the trip back to Dana Point is a relaxing end to a perfect Southern California daytrip. Soon we are back in San Diego, completely refreshed and relaxed, and ready to share stories about our daytrip to the “Riviera”.
AT A GLANCE
Where: Catalina Island is about 26 miles west of the L.A. area. There are four boat companies that service Catalina from seven ports in Orange and Los Angeles counties.
What: Catalina Island offers many recreational activities ranging from deep-sea fishing to horseback riding to hiking to snorkeling. There are also many attractions such as submarine rides and golf cart rentals.
When: Catalina is a great destination year-round, although the lowest prices are in the shoulder season, April-May and September-October. Most hotels offer lower prices then, but combo packages help reduce the overall cost of lodging and transportation any time of year. Several events are offered throughout the year, so check with the Chamber of Commerce for a listing.
Why: Catalina is close, easy to reach, incredibly picturesque and the perfect daytrip or getaway weekend for any living in or visiting Southern California.
How: Call the Catalina Chamber for a complete list of transportation and lodging options. Phone (310) 510-1520.
JOAN
Jun
17
Learn to Ride a Horse - Basic Horseback Riding Lessons
Filed Under Pets | Comments Off
Clinton Lyons asked:
There are a few things that some people wish to do before they die. For some they want to climb Mount Everest, some want to see the ancient pyramids, and some just want to learn to ride a horse. Fortunately for me I was able to learn to ride a horse at a very young age and it’s something I have enjoyed my whole entire life. If you wish to learn to ride a horse I’ll give you just a couple of things that you should learn to do right at the start.
One of the first things that you should do when you learn to ride a horse is to learn how to lead one. That’s probably not what you had in mind but still, it’s kind of important. You shouldn’t be standing at the end of the lead rope trying to pull your horse along and you also shouldn’t be standing at their shoulder letting them lead you along. There’s no control in either of those methods. The best way to lead a horse is to stand with your shoulder pretty close to their throatlatch and about a foot over to the side of them. That way you have enough room between the two of you for comfort. With one hand right below the lead snap and the other holding the rest of the lead line, you will step forward with the horse hopefully following. If it doesn’t then you just simply push gently in the direction you want to go with the hand that has the snap. That will give you the most control over the horse.
Now that you know how to lead a horse your horseback riding lessons will flow smoother. When you learn to ride a horse you have to be in control and if you can lead one with control on the ground you have a better chance of being able to learn to ride a horse. Riding a horse works best when you know that you’re in control. If you think that you can’t ride a horse, you will never be able to learn proper horseback riding. They will know that you’re scared and take total advantage of you. That’s all there is to it. If you get scared just take some deep breaths and tell yourself that you’re the boss. Any time my mare and I have a “discussion” and she thinks that she’s the boss I calmly let her know that I’m the boss and that I’m always going to win. And I always do. You can’t get rough and be mean but you have to be firm. If you start beating and thumping on a horse, odds are it’s gonna scared and then you might get scared. Not a good thing.
You can learn to ride a horse by taking lessons but unless you are with a trainer that has a goal of teaching you something in particular, you might be able to get the same effects by watching a few videos or reading some horse training books. And a lot of those books you can purchase online for a reasonable cost. No sense making horse ownership any more expensive than it needs to be. If you learn to ride a horse, you are learning a skill that has been around for hundreds of years and obviously is still important to this day because people still do it. Mainly some will learn to ride a horse for pleasure, relaxation or just time by themselves. What’s you’re reason?
ALPHONSE
There are a few things that some people wish to do before they die. For some they want to climb Mount Everest, some want to see the ancient pyramids, and some just want to learn to ride a horse. Fortunately for me I was able to learn to ride a horse at a very young age and it’s something I have enjoyed my whole entire life. If you wish to learn to ride a horse I’ll give you just a couple of things that you should learn to do right at the start.
One of the first things that you should do when you learn to ride a horse is to learn how to lead one. That’s probably not what you had in mind but still, it’s kind of important. You shouldn’t be standing at the end of the lead rope trying to pull your horse along and you also shouldn’t be standing at their shoulder letting them lead you along. There’s no control in either of those methods. The best way to lead a horse is to stand with your shoulder pretty close to their throatlatch and about a foot over to the side of them. That way you have enough room between the two of you for comfort. With one hand right below the lead snap and the other holding the rest of the lead line, you will step forward with the horse hopefully following. If it doesn’t then you just simply push gently in the direction you want to go with the hand that has the snap. That will give you the most control over the horse.
Now that you know how to lead a horse your horseback riding lessons will flow smoother. When you learn to ride a horse you have to be in control and if you can lead one with control on the ground you have a better chance of being able to learn to ride a horse. Riding a horse works best when you know that you’re in control. If you think that you can’t ride a horse, you will never be able to learn proper horseback riding. They will know that you’re scared and take total advantage of you. That’s all there is to it. If you get scared just take some deep breaths and tell yourself that you’re the boss. Any time my mare and I have a “discussion” and she thinks that she’s the boss I calmly let her know that I’m the boss and that I’m always going to win. And I always do. You can’t get rough and be mean but you have to be firm. If you start beating and thumping on a horse, odds are it’s gonna scared and then you might get scared. Not a good thing.
You can learn to ride a horse by taking lessons but unless you are with a trainer that has a goal of teaching you something in particular, you might be able to get the same effects by watching a few videos or reading some horse training books. And a lot of those books you can purchase online for a reasonable cost. No sense making horse ownership any more expensive than it needs to be. If you learn to ride a horse, you are learning a skill that has been around for hundreds of years and obviously is still important to this day because people still do it. Mainly some will learn to ride a horse for pleasure, relaxation or just time by themselves. What’s you’re reason?
ALPHONSE
Jun
16
Are there any places in Saint Louis, MO to go horseback riding if you don’t own a horse?
Filed Under Other - Outdoor Recreation | Comments Off
scarlett3984 asked:
I live in Saint Louis, MO and don’t know of any place to go horseback riding where you can “rent” a horse and go horseback riding EXCEPT for Marquette State Park.
Any suggestions?? Thanks.
TIMOTHY
I live in Saint Louis, MO and don’t know of any place to go horseback riding where you can “rent” a horse and go horseback riding EXCEPT for Marquette State Park.
Any suggestions?? Thanks.
TIMOTHY
Jun
12
Louisville is Near The Ohio River
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Douglas Scott asked:
Louisville is just south of Indiana across the Ohio River.
The majestic Ohio River, the major link between the bustling cities of the East Coast and the mighty Mississippi River, was greatly instrumental in shaping the future of the city of Louisville and to this day still captures the imagination of all who visit.
The Belle of Louisville, a National Historic Landmark and the most beloved symbol of our city, continues to grace us with her presence at the very site she visited so often throughout the early nineteen hundreds.
It is firmly embedded in the American national consciousness for its multimillion dollar Kentucky Derby. Each year, the horse race attracts over 500,000 fans to this cosmopolitan and well diversified industrial city, which still bears the traces of the early French settlers who came upriver from New Orlean.
More than 2,500 restaurants serving an astounding variety of cuisines, ranging from quiet cafes and coffee houses to ethnic restaurants and gourmet palaces.
Louisvilles most visited park offers opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, softball, tennis, basketball, golf, bicycling, jogging and picnicking. Discover the beautiful spring wildflowers in the area of Cherokee Park obscured from the road.
The city is big on the national sporting map, too, being the home of the famed Louisville sluggers and baseball fans flock to the downtown museum dedicated to this team. This, together with some exciting attractions like an indoor forest, a restored old sternwheeler river boat, an excellent zoo and a thrilling amusement park, makes Louisville a perfect family holiday destination, set in the very heart of America.
The State Zoo of Kentucky currently exhibits over 1,300 animals in naturalistic and mixed animal settings representing both geographical areas and biomes or habitats.
The Science Centre strives to bring out the scientist in you via exhibits, programs and IMAX films that are both educational and entertaining. This phenomenal hands-on facility has something for everyone.
As the cities population and economy advanced, so did its institutions. The University of Louisville traces its roots to 1798 when the Jefferson Seminary was established.
The local tourist authority boasts that the city is within a days drive of more than half the population of the United States. Other tours include pottery crafting at Louisville Stoneware or Hadley Pottery, or Braille printing at the American Printing House for the Blind. For all ages, for all interests. A great place to be, come and see for yourself.
EDMUND
Louisville is just south of Indiana across the Ohio River.
The majestic Ohio River, the major link between the bustling cities of the East Coast and the mighty Mississippi River, was greatly instrumental in shaping the future of the city of Louisville and to this day still captures the imagination of all who visit.
The Belle of Louisville, a National Historic Landmark and the most beloved symbol of our city, continues to grace us with her presence at the very site she visited so often throughout the early nineteen hundreds.
It is firmly embedded in the American national consciousness for its multimillion dollar Kentucky Derby. Each year, the horse race attracts over 500,000 fans to this cosmopolitan and well diversified industrial city, which still bears the traces of the early French settlers who came upriver from New Orlean.
More than 2,500 restaurants serving an astounding variety of cuisines, ranging from quiet cafes and coffee houses to ethnic restaurants and gourmet palaces.
Louisvilles most visited park offers opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, softball, tennis, basketball, golf, bicycling, jogging and picnicking. Discover the beautiful spring wildflowers in the area of Cherokee Park obscured from the road.
The city is big on the national sporting map, too, being the home of the famed Louisville sluggers and baseball fans flock to the downtown museum dedicated to this team. This, together with some exciting attractions like an indoor forest, a restored old sternwheeler river boat, an excellent zoo and a thrilling amusement park, makes Louisville a perfect family holiday destination, set in the very heart of America.
The State Zoo of Kentucky currently exhibits over 1,300 animals in naturalistic and mixed animal settings representing both geographical areas and biomes or habitats.
The Science Centre strives to bring out the scientist in you via exhibits, programs and IMAX films that are both educational and entertaining. This phenomenal hands-on facility has something for everyone.
As the cities population and economy advanced, so did its institutions. The University of Louisville traces its roots to 1798 when the Jefferson Seminary was established.
The local tourist authority boasts that the city is within a days drive of more than half the population of the United States. Other tours include pottery crafting at Louisville Stoneware or Hadley Pottery, or Braille printing at the American Printing House for the Blind. For all ages, for all interests. A great place to be, come and see for yourself.
EDMUND
Jun
12
More Horseback Riding Tips: Use Accurate Equestrian Information To Inspire You
Filed Under Sports And Fitness | Comments Off
Margarethe De Clermont asked:
Supremely self-confident equestrians know how to optimise their unique talents and skills by harnessing the collective powers of their minds, their bodies, and their individual resources. The ability to build (or even re-build) one’s self-confidence, is essential for any rider. Absorbing and making use of high-quality information works from the inside out, resulting is a set of concrete strategies that are powerful, easy to apply, and quick to show results.
Where can one get inspiration and high-quality information? The following ten options are very practical and useful.
1. Watch instructional video’s and DVD’s
2. Join associations and clubs - often free on the internet
3. Subscribe to reputable newsletters via e-mail or RSS
4. Attend master classes/ lectures - check the appropriate websites for dates and locations
5. Attend residential workshops - these can be especially enjoyable if combined with an equestrian holiday
6. Get personal equestrian life coaching. Coaching helps you figure out who you are, where you are now and where you want to go from here. It helps you turn your riding dreams into goals. After all, a goal is only a dream with a deadline. An equestrian life coach offers you support and commitment, and use specialised professional skills to provide inspiration, motivation and encouragement.
Common benefits people experience from coaching include:
- Improved sense of direction/focus- a clear sense of direction is always useful to horse riders
- Increase self-knowledge/ awareness: you will master new riding skills faster if you are fully aware of your weaknesses…and strenghts
- Improved ability to relate to others, especially to horses
- Increased motivation - essential on a freezing cold winter morning with several stables waiting to be mucked out
- Increased ability to handle change - since, as a horse riders, you never know exactly what is going to happen next, adapting to change is an essential ability
- Increased resourcefulness/resilience
7. Read books about riding technique written by excepted equestrian authorities.
8. Avoid overconfidence like the plague. Arrogance can be very dangerous. Pride comes before a fall - don’t risk a riding injury.
9. Attend horse shows, competitions, performances and open days. Fuel your motivation with inspiring quotes, books and films ( like Citizen Mane , Withering Heights ,The Bridle of Frankenstein, Gentlemen Prefer Palominos, Rein Man, Lawrence the Arabian and Stall Wars)
10. Inspirational and motivational quotes can change your life! Quotations can motivate and inspire you and increase your self esteem. Quotations can change your attitude and your mood. Reading famous quotations and reflecting on them will help you refocus on what is really important to you. And for that reason I am ending with a quotation from one of the greatest movie makers of all times:
Somehow I can’t believe that there are any heights that can’t be scaled by a man who knows the secrets of making dreams come true. This special secret, it seems to me, can be summarized in four C’s. They are curiosity, confidence, courage, and constancy, and the greatest of all is confidence. When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable - Walt Disney
CURTIS
Supremely self-confident equestrians know how to optimise their unique talents and skills by harnessing the collective powers of their minds, their bodies, and their individual resources. The ability to build (or even re-build) one’s self-confidence, is essential for any rider. Absorbing and making use of high-quality information works from the inside out, resulting is a set of concrete strategies that are powerful, easy to apply, and quick to show results.
Where can one get inspiration and high-quality information? The following ten options are very practical and useful.
1. Watch instructional video’s and DVD’s
2. Join associations and clubs - often free on the internet
3. Subscribe to reputable newsletters via e-mail or RSS
4. Attend master classes/ lectures - check the appropriate websites for dates and locations
5. Attend residential workshops - these can be especially enjoyable if combined with an equestrian holiday
6. Get personal equestrian life coaching. Coaching helps you figure out who you are, where you are now and where you want to go from here. It helps you turn your riding dreams into goals. After all, a goal is only a dream with a deadline. An equestrian life coach offers you support and commitment, and use specialised professional skills to provide inspiration, motivation and encouragement.
Common benefits people experience from coaching include:
- Improved sense of direction/focus- a clear sense of direction is always useful to horse riders
- Increase self-knowledge/ awareness: you will master new riding skills faster if you are fully aware of your weaknesses…and strenghts
- Improved ability to relate to others, especially to horses
- Increased motivation - essential on a freezing cold winter morning with several stables waiting to be mucked out
- Increased ability to handle change - since, as a horse riders, you never know exactly what is going to happen next, adapting to change is an essential ability
- Increased resourcefulness/resilience
7. Read books about riding technique written by excepted equestrian authorities.
8. Avoid overconfidence like the plague. Arrogance can be very dangerous. Pride comes before a fall - don’t risk a riding injury.
9. Attend horse shows, competitions, performances and open days. Fuel your motivation with inspiring quotes, books and films ( like Citizen Mane , Withering Heights ,The Bridle of Frankenstein, Gentlemen Prefer Palominos, Rein Man, Lawrence the Arabian and Stall Wars)
10. Inspirational and motivational quotes can change your life! Quotations can motivate and inspire you and increase your self esteem. Quotations can change your attitude and your mood. Reading famous quotations and reflecting on them will help you refocus on what is really important to you. And for that reason I am ending with a quotation from one of the greatest movie makers of all times:
Somehow I can’t believe that there are any heights that can’t be scaled by a man who knows the secrets of making dreams come true. This special secret, it seems to me, can be summarized in four C’s. They are curiosity, confidence, courage, and constancy, and the greatest of all is confidence. When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable - Walt Disney
CURTIS
Jun
11
Why has horseback riding made me calmer?
Filed Under Horses | Comments Off
cte asked:
I’ve noticed that since horseback riding. I haven’t been getting annoyed as easily and that I am just alot calmer and relax now.
KEN
I’ve noticed that since horseback riding. I haven’t been getting annoyed as easily and that I am just alot calmer and relax now.
KEN
Jun
10
15 Must-Ask Questions Before You Hire Your Horseback Riding Instructor!
Filed Under Pets | Comments Off
anonymous asked:
Have you ever imagined yourself walking boldly into a paddock to catch “your horse”?
You slip the halter on smoothly, close the snap, and then your well-trained animal walks calmly beside you, through the gate, and waits patiently as you close it.
From there, you groom your horse effortlessly, saddle and bridle it without fuss and then, you are ready to ride. Your Riding Instructor is in the ring, ready to teach.
You either head for a block, or ramp, and your horse waits patiently for you to climb aboard. As you feel the morning sun on your face, you breathe a contented sigh.
LIFE is GOOD!!!
Here is your chance to make that imagined scene really happen for YOU, no matter how inexperienced or worried you are; no matter what your age. I have seen this happen many times in my 30 years as a Horseback Riding Instructor and it CAN happen for you.
My question to you is: ………………..Are You Ready To?
The only way to put horses into your life with safety and fun is to find a riding instructor that you can connect with. Here are a few questions to ask a riding instructor or yourself as you begin the process:
1. What does the farm look like? Is the barn neat and are fences in good repair?
2. Is there an enclosed riding area?
3. What is the farm’s safety record? As you watch a few lessons, are the horses well-behaved?
4. Are the Horses healthy?
5. Are you able to spend pre-lesson time with a horse or does someone else do all the grooming and saddling for you?
6. Is the riding instructor available to work with you during the lessons or is it an assistant?
7. Do all the riders wear helmets? If not, really think about that- you only have one head and it won’t last long if you fall on it!
8. Is the instructor patient and compassionate with the riders? What tone does the coach use during the lessons?
9. Is there an awareness of each rider’s learning style and fear level?
10. How does the riding instructor handle challenges or problems in the ring?
11. Are there opportunities to become involved with horses other than riding?
12. Are you able to watch and work with more advanced riders?
13. Are you financially and physically able to commit to one lesson per week? The more we repeat a process, the faster we learn it.
14. Are you able to do any type of physical fitness work between lessons to gain endurance?
15. Do students look like they are having fun?
Wouldn’t YOU like to learn how to be happy with horses? START RIGHT Now by printing these questions and then looking for your Horseback Riding Instructor!
EUGENE
Have you ever imagined yourself walking boldly into a paddock to catch “your horse”?
You slip the halter on smoothly, close the snap, and then your well-trained animal walks calmly beside you, through the gate, and waits patiently as you close it.
From there, you groom your horse effortlessly, saddle and bridle it without fuss and then, you are ready to ride. Your Riding Instructor is in the ring, ready to teach.
You either head for a block, or ramp, and your horse waits patiently for you to climb aboard. As you feel the morning sun on your face, you breathe a contented sigh.
LIFE is GOOD!!!
Here is your chance to make that imagined scene really happen for YOU, no matter how inexperienced or worried you are; no matter what your age. I have seen this happen many times in my 30 years as a Horseback Riding Instructor and it CAN happen for you.
My question to you is: ………………..Are You Ready To?
The only way to put horses into your life with safety and fun is to find a riding instructor that you can connect with. Here are a few questions to ask a riding instructor or yourself as you begin the process:
1. What does the farm look like? Is the barn neat and are fences in good repair?
2. Is there an enclosed riding area?
3. What is the farm’s safety record? As you watch a few lessons, are the horses well-behaved?
4. Are the Horses healthy?
5. Are you able to spend pre-lesson time with a horse or does someone else do all the grooming and saddling for you?
6. Is the riding instructor available to work with you during the lessons or is it an assistant?
7. Do all the riders wear helmets? If not, really think about that- you only have one head and it won’t last long if you fall on it!
8. Is the instructor patient and compassionate with the riders? What tone does the coach use during the lessons?
9. Is there an awareness of each rider’s learning style and fear level?
10. How does the riding instructor handle challenges or problems in the ring?
11. Are there opportunities to become involved with horses other than riding?
12. Are you able to watch and work with more advanced riders?
13. Are you financially and physically able to commit to one lesson per week? The more we repeat a process, the faster we learn it.
14. Are you able to do any type of physical fitness work between lessons to gain endurance?
15. Do students look like they are having fun?
Wouldn’t YOU like to learn how to be happy with horses? START RIGHT Now by printing these questions and then looking for your Horseback Riding Instructor!
EUGENE
Jun
9
Does anyone know where I can go horseback riding in southern California?
Filed Under Other - Outdoor Recreation | Comments Off
cwgrluprn asked:
I am new to port of LA. Been here 4 weeks and really want to go horseback riding. Anyone can help me, please contact me.
I am new to port of LA. Been here 4 weeks and really want to go horseback riding. Anyone can help me, please contact me.
Traveling is not an option, within reason.
DARWIN
Jun
7
Horseback-riding?
Filed Under Horses | Comments Off
belle_glamour asked:
What would be an ideal age to get children involved in horseback-riding? I have an arabian mare, and I would love to get my kids riding someday. When would be the perfect time, and how should I go about scheduling lessons? Yes, some of my children are eager to be involved, but I’m not sure how old they should be. Also, regarding lessons, should I go through my stable or through a trainer?
CHARLES
What would be an ideal age to get children involved in horseback-riding? I have an arabian mare, and I would love to get my kids riding someday. When would be the perfect time, and how should I go about scheduling lessons? Yes, some of my children are eager to be involved, but I’m not sure how old they should be. Also, regarding lessons, should I go through my stable or through a trainer?
CHARLES