Getting the Most from Riding Lessons

by Mike Smith

Overview

Stressing the benefits of preparation, Mike Smith helps you retain and even improve your riding skills in between lessons. Brushing up on the basics of horsemanship, identifying key goals, and conditioning riding muscles are all part of Smith’s regimen, which is designed to enhance your riding experience and maximize the benefits of precious lesson time. With insights into understanding horse behavior and advice on how to effectively communicate with your instructor, you’ll gain the confidence to take your riding to the next level.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781580170826
Publisher:	Storey Publishing, LLC
Publication date:	01/11/1998
Series:	Horse-Wise Guide Series
Pages:	160
Product dimensions:	8.55(w) x 10.90(h) x 0.55(d)

About the Author

Author Mike Smith has extensive experience with horses, for he has been teaching riding for over 25 years, owns two horse centers and 50 percent interest in a third. He has a master's degree from the British Horse Society, and holds an Instructors Certification from the Potomac Horse Center in Maryland. Mike rides and trains to the 4th level in Dressage, and has trained and competed with A-Level hunters and jumpers. He has a rigorous training program for the instructors employed at his stables, and he is responsible for the instruction of 1,000 students. Mike's book, Getting the Most from Riding Lessons, is a popular Storey title. He resides in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Part I: The Basics

Lesson 1: Leading, Mounting, and Walking

Lesson 2: Learning to Trot

Lesson 3: Riding in a Field

Lesson 4: The Sitting Trot

Part II: The Finer Points

Lesson 5: Improving Control

Lesson 6: Half Halt, On the Bit, and Evasions

Lesson 7: Half Seat and Introduction to the Canter

Lesson 8: Trail Class

Lesson 9: Perfecting the Canter

Lesson 10: Training

Part III: Onward and Upward

Lesson 11: Jumping 101

Lesson 12: Jumping 102

Appendix 1: Exercises

Appendix 2: Standardized Aids

Glossary

Index