What In The Wheel: Deanna Learns How To Ride A Horse
A couple months ago during the holidays, the wheel was spun and it landed on me. I’ve never ridden a horse in my life.
It’s been on my bucket list for quite some time.
My stepmom grew up with horses. Now that I live in Pennsylvania, surrounded by them, she suggested we go riding some day.
I’d love to, I’d just love to know what I’m doing before we get there. This way, she doesn’t have to sit through me learning the basics.
Justin, Hollywood Kyle and myself headed out to Green Acres Farm in Salem, NJ.
Jessica McCosker teaches people how to ride horses all day long.
She invited us to the farm to take a look around, tour the property and meet the animals. Most importantly, Jess was going to teach me how to ride a horse.
Her biggest and most gentle believe it or not, was Sargeant.
Sarg was the best horse I could have bonded with. Which is one of the first things Jess taught me to do.
You must create a bond with the horse. If they don’t trust you, they want you riding.
I learned the “horseman’s handshake”. You extend your arm out with a fist. Your fist mimics their nose. Letting them come to you, they sniff and try to get familiar. This is the first step in the process of bonding.
You can’t force a horse’s handshake. But Sargeant licked my hand right away and proceeded to lick my face. Needless to say, I think he liked me.
Next, you groom your horse, especially where the saddle is going to be harnessed. This teaches your horse to trust you. You’re taking care of them and prepping them for a nice little ride.
Jess taught me the typical commands like “Walk”, “Trot”, and “Whoaaa”. “Whoa”, I used the most.
Check out the photos below of this episode of What In The Wheel: Deanna Learns How To Ride A Horse.
I highly encourage anyone looking to learn how to ride a horse, to visit Green Acres Farm in Salem, NJ.
Jess was awesome. She runs Royal Moon Ranch Equine Training and Lessons.
Pay them a visit!
