Four Winds Farm

Which Style of Horseback Riding?

The two basic styles of riding are English and western. Each method requires different tack, or equipment. The build of the horses differ, as do the gaits of the animals. Exploring both styles is a possibility!  We also work on bareback riding and vaulting basics.  Basic driving lessons are also available!

Riding lessons have many levels, and each takes time to perfect. To help you and/or your child decide on a riding style, listed below are the basics of both riding styles.


English

An English rider holds the reins in both hands and posts while trotting. Posting involves rising up from the saddle with every other stride of the horse’s forelegs.

During a trot, a horse picks up his feet creating a bouncier ride, but posting gives the rider a smoother look and feel. A walking horse moves at a slower, steady pace and does not require posting.

Cantering is a beautiful thing to watch when horse and rider are in sync. The animal’s legs extend, reaching out for the next step and the entire body is collected, or taut and focused.

The light, close fit of an English saddle allows the rider to control the horse with knees and thighs as well as the reins. Stirrups are kept at a shorter length to allow the rider’s knees to bend. English riders wear breeches, boots to the knees (or paddock boots and half chaps), a shirt with a collar, and a helmet.

Although any horse can be trained in the English style, thoroughbreds and warmbloods are often the horses of choice.





Western

Think of a cowboy hat and a saddle with a “horn” as mandatory equipment for western riding. Western riders hold the reins in one hand.

During a jog, the western term for a trot, the rider remains seated in the saddle.

During a lope, western-trained horses move at a slower pace than the English canter. That’s because cowboys on the range needed to cover long distances at a steady, relaxed pace that would not easily tire the horse.

Western saddles are larger and made to counter-balance a roped calf or cow. The horn provides a place for lassos where they the rider can grab the rope quickly. Stirrups hang lower for a straighter leg.

Western riders wear jeans, shirts, boots and, of course, the hallmark cowboy hat. Beginners wear a helmet for added protection.

Tough, stocky work horses are the mainstay of a western stable. Quarter horses fit the ideal western horse look and attitude.