4-H Basic Horsemanship

There are riders and there are horsemen. Every horseman is a rider but not every rider is a horseman. The following material is presented to help every rider become a better horseman or horsewoman. It is basic material which can be applied to every type of riding with only slight modification. Use of the ideas expressed will develop the rider\u27s balance and form. The trained horse will be responsive and alert to the rider\u27s demands. Skill in use of the following horsemanship methods requires practice. The reward will follow in more enjoyment in handling a better trained horse in a correct manner. Some trainers and instructors will have slightly different methods; some more advanced. No criticism of these methods is intended if they produce the desired results. Inexperienced riders will find the following methods easy to follow and should plan to progress to more advanced ideas as they become experienced. The sections on mounting, seat, and position at the gaits are important to 4-H club members who will be judged on these positions at 4-H horse shows. SADDLE UP! Many persons have helped in the ideas expressed, and the authors hope your ride through these pages gives as much enjoyment as did the preparation. As you try the methods, don\u27t forget to pull up in the shade occasionally and think things out. Your goal is a well trained horse and a better rider - not rushing to be ready for this year\u27s show