Developing Horse-Sense:
Safety First
Our equine ag education program gives participants experience working with a horse “from the ground–up.” This means 4-H and FFA individuals will learn how to lead, groom, saddle, and bridle a horse before riding instruction begins. This “tacking up” is an important part of each session, as it develops familiarity and confidence in handling a horse or pony, and helps to create a bond over time.
Adjusting stirrups and checking girth tightness before mounting horse for safe horsemanship.
Beginning participants will learn: how to approach and move around a horse safely, how to lead and turn a horse, how to back up a horse (in-hand), how to efficiently groom and tack up a horse, proper mounting, how to correctly hold the reins, leg position, seat and leg aids, a balanced seat and safe dismounting. Initial riding will be conducted on the lunge-line until individual is ready to ride independently with a strong, rhythmic and balanced seat, and without pulling on the horse’s mouth. Over time, riders will learn how to effectively walk, trot and canter, respectively, as the strength and correctness of the rider’s leg and seat aids increase. Riders will also learn how to direct their horse around, over and through obstacles. This can often be a methodical process that improves over several weeks and/or months.
The ultimate objective is to have individuals riding independently and feeling confident in their communication through leg and seat aids with the horse. Once past this level, riders who want to learn jumping can practice the two-point position and school over ground poles before graduating to low jumps. Participating intermediate students will be evaluated as to their level of horsemanship and riding experience, as well as their goals for riding. Then, we will tailor a program to fit the participant’s individual goals.