Ask Al: Advice from a Master Horseman: On Becoming a Better Rider

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On Becoming a Better Rider

by Al Dunning

 

In this issue we celebrate the equine centered lifestyle. As most equestrians strive to improve their skills in the saddle, it seemed natural to ask Al his thoughts on becoming a better rider.

better rider
Riding is a very physical sport requiring good core strength and general wellness. Photo Courtesy Robert Dawson.

Question: How much of good riding do you think is mental and how much is physical?

Answer: A rider needs to be of sound mind and technique! It is a physical sport and being in good shape, having lung capacity, and core strength for balance is key. However, you can have everything but if you can’t relax, think, and relate quickly to situations you are behind the curve of good riders.

Question: What is the biggest, most common rider error you see?

Answer: In my sport of reining, one of the most common errors I see is the rider not knowing how to ride the pattern to their advantage. My friend Bob Avila says, “speed kills.” He is referring to riders that confuse activity for excellence. Contestants should try to have a smooth, penalty free run first before adding speed and degree of difficulty to their performance. In addition, green riders tend to run circles faster than run-downs!

better rider
The best horsemen have feel for the horse, in and out of the saddle. This is both a natural skill and one that is developed. Photo Courtesy Charles Brooks.

Question: Do you think success as a rider results more from natural talent or hard work? Do you think you need a ‘lucky break’ of a good horse to be successful?

Answer: It is obvious some riders have a knack for the sport. Being athletic, relaxed and able to think under pressure are great benefits. Hard work helps with any endeavor, but a great horse and being “part horse” is more important. Feel for the horse and having nerves of steel add to being called a “natural” in the saddle.

Question: Do you think a rider needs to ride many horses to learn and become successful?

better rider
Photo Courtesy Robert Dawson.

Answer: Feel is a word that trainers talk about constantly. This means being able to think like a horse, and being able to relate to them naturally and smoothly so they can understand. Riding numerous horses is an advantage as it offers the opportunity to experience various dispositions and different mouths as well as learning what works and what doesn’t. All these things will help you develop feel and be a more confident and successful rider

 

 

Published in February 2016 Issue


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