Covers all aspects of western riding from choosing a horse to tacking up, trail riding, conditioning, endurance riding, and showing

Get in the saddle and experience the thrills, challenges, and fun of Western riding! In this comprehensive introductory guide, veteran trainer Charlene Strickland covers everything from safe horse handling procedures and basic Western riding techniques to stylish competition outfits. With plenty of encouragement and a contagious passion, Strickland provides easy-to-follow riding instructions along with expert advice on evaluating horses and appropriate tack. You’ll soon be enjoying pleasurable rides both in the training ring and out on the trail.

Covers all aspects of Western riding from choosing a horse to trail riding, barrel racing, roping, and showing

You’ve always dreamed of riding horses. So what are you waiting for? It’s time you realized your equestrian dreams and learned to ride like a pro on the back of a noble steed. And Horseback Riding for Dummies shows you how. Don’t know a horse’s head from its tail, a trot from a canter, withers from a fetlock? No problem. Coauthored by a medal-winning equestrian and nationally respected equestrian trainer, it tells you what you need to know about that elegant animal, body and soul, to become an accomplished rider. And it trains you in all the technical basics of riding for fun or competition, including how to: Find a good stable and instructor Select riding gear Warm up and keep riding muscles fit Establish a rapport with a horse Cue a horse to walk, jog, trot, lope, and cantor Ride in the ring and on trails Improve your balance and timing Compete in horse shows Buy and care for your own horse Stop dreaming about it and learn to ride like the wind with Horseback Riding for Dummies—the ultimate beginner’s guide to all things equestrian.

Western Horsemanship requires balance, finesse, and above all, effective communication between horse and rider. Not only is Western Horsemanship an important and popular horse show class, but it is also the foundation for such other competitive events as reining, roping, trail, and working cow horse.From selecting a suitable horse, necessary tack and equipment, and preparing for competition to winning strategies for the show arena, 101 Western Pleasure and Horsemanship Tips is an essential guide for all Western riders.

Expert advice from an experienced equestrienne packs The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Horseback Riding. Learn simple strategies for mastering basic riding skills, essential information on caring for horses, the differences between Western and English riding styles, caring for the saddle, and much more! Rules of polo and polocrosse are also included.

Examines the history of barrel racing, basic skills involved, and some champions of this rodeo event.