This is a list we compiled over the years as a reminder, a check list as you will, of points we review with each rider before every ride. Perhaps you may find something here of use if you, too, guide rides or teach riding. Perhaps there may even be a bit of value in here if you ride on your own – a self reminder check list! Hope it may be of some use.Pre Ride
Horse tack, horse shoes checked before each ride.
Rider, horse and saddle “matched” to the best of our ability.
All participants have read, understand and agree to our release of liability.
All participants have signed a release of liability.
Safety on the ground/ at the corrals
The nature of the horse – instinct replaces training, remaining calm, communicate clearly, provide leadership, be aware of the horses tendency to spook.
Safe distance on the ground between horse and person.
Safe distance in the saddle between horses.
How to safely mount and dismount, how to handle the horse when dismounted.
Double check all tack
Cinches should be checked 3 times
Double check balance and fit of stirrups
Be sure rider’s gear is secure
Safety in the saddle
Balance (be aware of your center, center of horse, realign rather than fall! Be upright at all times like the trees growing on the hillside)
Posture/leg position (melt onto the back of the horse, center focus just below your belly button, legs are your anchor not your arms/hands)
Riding
Starting the horse (focus, raise energy, squeeze – do not kick)
Stopping the horse (voice command of “whoa,” sit back, gentle pull back and release, or one rein to the side – do not jerk back)
Steering the horse (riders focus is key, point and shoot – smooth movements)
Proper rein length (give the horse it’s head, but be able to communicate if need be)
Ability to shorten the reins (understand what this means and when you might need it)
Ability to split rein (plow rein and move horse with one rein)
Maintaining correct spacing, stay in line, walk only.
Emergency handling (pull one rein to your hip, turn the horse to the side, focus on driving the horse in small, tight circles)
Emergency dismount (turn horses head to side, removed feet from stirrups, jump down on that side)
Dismounting at the end of the ride (be aware of spacing between horses, line up at rail)
Be riding all the time!
Trail Etiquette reminder (refer to previous post)
Rider evaluation, if necessary, includes:
If unable to safely guide and control the horse here, please do not assume it will be any safer out on the trails!
All riders must be able to safely control their horse both on the ground and in the saddle and follow our directions at all times.
Evaluation if need be should be requiring participant to ride horse out from herd, around an object near by, and return.
Any questions, comments, concerns?
If a second guide is riding drag:
Keep in touch with lead guide as need be: Call up to lead guide in friendly way
Keep an eye on safety, especially:
Slipping saddles, riders off balance
Reins too loose/too tight
Horse spacing
Personal objects slipping, falling, etc.