Online Class: Horseback Riding 101
This course will cover all the basics about riding, both beginning and advanced, and introduce almost everything you will need to know as you ride and/or decide to buy your own horse.
COURSE CLOSED
We're sorry, this course is no longer open for enrollment.
We're sorry, this course is no longer open for enrollment.
-
12Lessons
-
14Exams &
Assignments -
4Hours
average time -
0.4CEUs
Course Description
While it's impossible to describe the exhilaration and connections to yourself and to nature you will experience while riding a horse, be assured that nothing else you ever do will be quite like it. That may not seem true the day after your first ride, when you will probably have some aches and pains from muscles you don't use often and may feel like your legs have forever become an "O" shape, or when you are learning to ride the trot, which is a big challenge for most of us, but those kinds of problems will disappear quickly as you learn and love to ride.
You'll also love horses themselves. They are friendly, gentle animals and companions – and enjoyable riding requires that you and your horse, or a stable horse you may ride, work together. Since horses are herding animals in the wild, they enjoy having at least one other horse companion, and will take you into their herd, too. You'll like that!
This course will cover all the basics about riding, both beginning and advanced, and introduce almost everything you will need to know as you ride and/or decide to buy your own horse. Since all that knowledge and lore couldn't possibly fit into one course, and because there are some absolutely wonderful resources both online and at bookstores, we include many links so you can pursue information you want to deeper levels.
- Completely Online
- Self-Paced
- Printable Lessons
- Full HD Video
- 6 Months to Complete
- 24/7 Availability
- Start Anytime
- PC & Mac Compatible
- Android & iOS Friendly
- Accredited CEUs
Course Lessons
Lesson 1: Building Bonds: Horses and Humans
Aspiring riders should seek lessons to properly develop their skills and ensure safety, beginning with gentle trail rides to acclimate the body. Rookies should start with short rides to allow underused muscles to adjust gradually to the new activity.
12 Total Points
Lesson 1 Video
Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
Complete Assignment: Introduce Yourself- Assessment: Lesson 1 The Joys of Riding
Lesson 2: Navigating the World of Western vs. English Riding Styles
Western and English styles are distinguishable by their saddle design and purpose, with the Western style being more prevalent in rodeos and ranches, while English is favored for dressage and jumping. The choice between these styles can be influenced by local customs, personal goals, or familial connections.
14 Total Points
- Lesson 2 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 2 Why Take Lessons and Basic Horse Sense
Lesson 3: Choosing the Perfect Riding Instructor: A Comprehensive Guide
Finding a good riding instructor involves exploring various resources like horse clubs, online directories, and direct inquiries at horse shows. It’s important to observe lessons and ask pertinent questions about their teaching methods and qualifications.
11 Total Points
- Lesson 3 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 3 Finding a Good Instructor for Lessons
Lesson 4: The Essentials of Buying and Caring for Your Horse
Purchasing a horse involves upfront costs of $2,500 to $3,500 for a safe and gentle animal, with monthly stabling and training adding to the ongoing expenses. To avoid pitfalls, consult professionals like trainers and veterinarians to assess the horse’s health and behavior before buying.
11 Total Points
- Lesson 4 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 4 Should you Buy? Finding a Trainer and Vet, Buying Your Horse
Lesson 5: From Nomadic Roots to Modern Rides: The Evolution of Horse Breeds
The versatile Quarter Horse, known for its speed over a quarter-mile, is a hallmark of the American West, excelling in rodeo events and having a calm temperament suitable for various riders. With their sturdy yet compact build and distinctive solid coloring, Quarter Horses adapt well to both Western and English riding styles.
14 Total Points
- Lesson 5 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 5 Horse History and Breeds, Choosing a Breed and Riding Style
Lesson 6: Boarding Insights: Creating a Safe and Nurturing Environment for Horses
Proper nourishment of a horse involves a balanced mix of high-quality hay, grains in moderation, and supplemental nutrients like vitamins, oils, and salt licks for overall health. Horses naturally need more calories during winter months, and owners should monitor feed for any potentially harmful elements.
15 Total Points
- Lesson 6 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 6 Horse Habitats, Food and Grooming
Lesson 7: Understanding Halters and Bridles in Horse Riding
Quality horse tack is crucial for safe and enjoyable riding, encompassing items such as halters, leads, bridles, and hackamores. Consideration of a horse's comfort with bits like snaffles or curbs can lead to better control and communication.
14 Total Points
- Lesson 7 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 7 Horse Tack: Halters and Leads, Bridle or Hackamores
Lesson 8: Understanding Saddles: Design, Fit, and Materials
Achieving an ideal saddle fit for horse well-being and rider stability requires awareness of equestrian terms and reliance on expert advice. Maintenance and accessory considerations are explored, alongside cost-effective strategies for saddle procurement and preservation.
14 Total Points
- Lesson 8 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 8 Saddles and Other Tack
Lesson 9: Equestrian Essentials: Back to Basics
To ensure a smooth riding experience, the lesson provides detailed steps for preparing and mounting a horse, emphasizing the importance of equipment checks and proper positioning. Techniques for effective rein control, stopping, and turning are also discussed, giving riders confidence in managing their horses.
14 Total Points
- Lesson 9 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 9 Horse Talk and Reviewing the Basics
Lesson 10: Ensuring the Longevity and Vitality of Your Horse: A Comprehensive Guide
Ensuring a horse's wellbeing includes observing for subtle changes in behavior or health, which could indicate issues like parasites or digestive distress. Equine health resources recommend a holistic approach encompassing proper nutrition, regular professional check-ups, and meticulous grooming practices for longevity.
14 Total Points
- Lesson 10 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 10 Keeping Your Horse Healthy and Happy
Lesson 11: The Intricacies of Trotting and Cantering
Adaptation to a horse's quirks might be necessary, especially with older horses, bearing in mind that some habits may not pose safety concerns. Unless you're interested in special events or competitions, this lesson concludes your current training—happy trails!
14 Total Points
- Lesson 11 Video
- Assessment: Lesson 11 Medium and Advanced Skills Progress
Lesson 12: Saddle Up: A Beginner's Guide to Horse Sports and Vacations
Swimming between English and Western styles, horse-related sports and competitions offer something for every enthusiast, from the structured grace of dressage to the rugged thrills of rodeo. Each discipline demands not only proficiency but also commitment to training, with a myriad of local and international venues to explore.
39 Total Points
- Lesson 12 Video
- Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments
- Assessment: Lesson 12 Horseback Vacations, Camps, Showing, Racing and Performing
- Assessment: The Final Exam
186
Total Course Points
Learning Outcomes
By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
- Summarize the joys of riding.
- Describe how to find a good instructor for lessons.
- Determine whether or not you should buy a horse.
- Describe horse history and breeds, choosing a breed and riding style.
- Describe horse habitats, food and grooming.
- Summarize horse tack.
- Summarize saddles and other tack.
- Describe ways of keeping your horse healthy and happy.
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
Loading...
