Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Is My Child Ready For Horse Riding Lessons Okotoks?

By Paul Fisher


Children that mostly show an interest in riding are those that live on stables or regularly visit them. It can be worrying for parents when children want to start horse riding lessons okotoks when they are very young. Parents may feel that it is not safe or the children are not old enough.

Things to consider before taking a child to a riding school include age and maturity level. Though most experts consider age seven to be appropriate to start lessons, it is the parents who best know the child. Some children are very active with low concentration level and therefore sitting on them for five minutes is not possible. The child should be able to handle such a large animal as the horse.

It is also important to consider the physical stature of the child, for practicality reasons. Some children even at age seven are relatively short and it would be therefore difficult for them to mount and dismount from the horse or sit comfortably on the saddle.

Safety while riding is of paramount importance and nothing should be ignored. Some of these safety gears to be considered includes boots, hat, trouser and top. There are boots made especially for this very exercise. It is unwise however, to purchase them just for one lesson and then store them somewhere if the child looses interest in the sport. Its better to use trainers for a few lessons, which is okay although not ideal.

Protective hats that are available to buy is another must have safety gear before commencing the lessons. A fall from a horse can leave one physically disabled but a hat can protect the head. It is good for a rider to purchase their own hat and checks that it fits properly and is comfortable.

Hats are available for hire from these schools in cases where one is not able to buy. Its important to check that the hat fits the rider properly and it has not been in an accident or collision, as it might not offer the best protection during a fall. Ask for an exchange if not sure in order to ensure one has a perfect fit that will guarantee their safety instead of being sorry later.

Due to the physical nature of this exercise, riders are advised to wear comfortable clothing. Jeans are heavy and stiff hence uncomfortable especially when wet after sweating. Shorts on the other hand will lead to chaffing as legs rub on the horse. The top should be comfortable enough to allow arm movement but not too loose to avoid being tangled on the reins.

As a beginner, its important to always follow the rules and regulations of the school one is enrolled in. These are there to ensure the safety and comfort of the riders and also cover the school in case of insurance claims and lawsuits when accidents happen. These lessons should be fun for both the child and the parent if the necessary considerations are looked in to.




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