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Horseback Riding At A Dude Ranch

Editor — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 14:27:20 +0000

If you are bored of your mundane routine of working at break-neck speed, just get away for a horseback riding vacation at a Dude Ranch. You will break free from the humdrum of city life and find yourself in the lap of mother nature. You can forget about your unending phone calls, the constant vigil on the computer and the tensions of your work. You will be able to enjoy the carefree atmosphere of open spaces and gaze at the stars in the night and agree fully with the poet who had remarked, "What's this life if full of care, you have no time to stand and stare?" A horseback riding vacation at a Dude Ranch can provide adventure and wholesome fun. You can eat, drink and be merry and have a 'riding' experience that you will never forget.

The American Tradition of Dude Ranch Vacations

Reminiscent of the cowboy days, Dude Ranches have become very popular since the time Roosevelt worked as a ranchman and asked his fellow-Americans to give vent to their adventurous spirits. Many Dude Ranches have been set up to accommodate the fun-seeking visitors, who can savor the ambience of cowboy life. However, modernization has upgraded the facilities available at such ranches and besides horse riding, many other activities like fishing, swimming, hiking, campfires and square dances are also available.

Horse Riding Hints

While you are enjoying yourself at a Dude Ranch, it is important to follow the hints given below for safe horse riding.

1) For neck-reining do not use both hands to "yank" the horse to the side you want. Simply put pressure on the left with the rein if you want to turn right and vice versa.

2) It is important to check if your cinch is snug and the cinch buckle is engaged in the "latigo strap" with the prong in one of its holes.

3) Try to ride with the group particularly when a rider opens or shuts a door.

4) Avoid walking up behind or up to a tied horse. Talk to the horse softly and make it aware of your presence so that it does not get frightened.

5) While getting off the horse, wrap the reins on the neck of the horse. Do not drop them on the ground. Avoid wearing a jacket or a rain coat that might flap in the breeze and scare the horse.

6) Do not allow the horse to grab grass by getting its head down all the time and run down or up the hill.

Try to develop good riding techniques and you will enjoy your horseback riding vacation at a Dude Ranch.

The Benefits Of Therapeutic Horseback Riding

Editor — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 04:12:20 +0000

Horseback riding, besides being a very enjoyable sport, is also a therapeutic solution to many physical and mental problems. Horses have been used for treating injured soldiers during World War 1 and even Olympic medals have been won by severely paralyzed people competing on horseback. Of late, the therapeutic riding programs are being used for treatment of children suffering from physical, emotional or psychological disabilities. Even children with Autism get relief due to the rhythmic motion of the horse that gives the necessary sensory stimulation.

Benefits of Horseback Riding

The benefits of therapeutic horseback riding include enhanced balance, posture, muscle tone, coordination and confidence. It is particularly helpful in stretching the muscles and even those muscles that are not frequently used, get toned up.

Therapeutic horseback riding is an alternate therapy that is beneficial for people of all ages and there are thousands of equine assisted therapy programs available throughout the world.

The therapeutic benefits of riding also include hippotherapy in which the horse is used as a tool and equine based psychotherapy is employed for therapeutic benefits. The other physical disabilities that benefit from therapeutic riding include cerebral palsy, muscular dystropy, multiple sclerosis, paralysis, amputation and spina bifida.

Horseback riding is very helpful in improving balance and posture as these attributes are essential for riders. Students can especially benefit by achieving balance while riding the horse as the motion created by the horse is the same as the one created by the human pelvis. The connection between the rider and the horse gives rise to building up the balance and improving the posture in the rider. The balance exercises can be of different types including sitting on the horse, walking, trotting, grabbing rings at the time of riding, stretching arms or keeping eyes closed while riding and riding backwards. The physical capabilities of the rider can be improved considerably with these exercises.

The muscles and joints of the body gain specifically from the riding exercises. Riding tones up most small muscles and joints as well as the back, legs, buttocks, knees, ankles and hips. Equine assisted therapy improves muscle tone and flexibility and different needs of the riders are addressed from the same motion when the skills are being learnt.

Intellectual stimulation is also achieved with riding and as such disorders such as autism, mental retardation, brain damage, developmental disorders, dyslexia and learning disabilities can be treated with horseback riding therapy.

Riding is demanding but it is also very relaxing with wonderful therapeutic benefits.

Tips To Prevent Horseback Riding Injuries

Editor — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 04:37:20 +0000

With a weight of up to 1,500 pounds, a height of 3 meters and a speed of 30 mph, horses can be quite formidable if the rider should happen to fall off. The amount and seriousness of the injuries can be very high and might also lead to fatal consequences. The probability of injuries in horseback riding is much higher than in motorcycle riding and as such it is essential that proper precautions should be taken so that the fun associated with horseback riding is not unnecessarily spoilt.

The most common areas of injuries are the arms, the spine and the head. If the injury is in the spinal region, the result can be permanent disability leading to paralysis. A head injury could cause seizures and the victim might even go into a coma. Although most injuries take place while riding, other injuries can be the result of handling, feeding and grooming the horse in the stable.

Recommendations

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons has recommended the following preventive measures to reduce the chance of injuries

1) Horseback riding helmets that meet safety standards must always be worn while riding.

2) Beginners should be properly instructed by experienced instructors and they should be supervised while riding. Moreover, they should be asked to ride experienced horses that have a good temperament and are cool and more predictable.

3) Each rider should be allotted a horse that will match his age, experience, skill and size.

4) All riding equipment should be checked to ensure that there is no damage and that it is properly fitted.

5) No loose clothing should be worn and well-fitted leather boots with minimum heel should be used.

6) Safety stirrups that snap if the rider falls should be used by children and beginners.

7) Amateurs should not attempt jumps or stunts without someone supervising them.

It is important to move away from the side of the horse when you hit the ground, if you feel that you are falling from the horse.

9) You should always be on the alert for any sudden noise or movement as this makes the horse run away from the same.

10) It is advisable not to ride a horse if you are on medication, tired or if you have consumed alcohol.

11) Proper body-protecting gear should be worn to prevent soft-tissue injuries and rib fractures.

With all these protective tips, you can look forward to an enjoyable and safe horseback riding experience.

Spains Andalusian Costa Brava Trail Horseback Riding

Editor — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 22:49:20 +0000

The Costa Brava Trail in Catalonia is simply a feast of colors. People have admired the spectacular beauty of this place for many years and even today, a ride through this trail can put you in touch with nature. You see different versions of Flora and Fauna and in the humid areas; you can see cork oak, stone oak, pine forests, arcacias, alders and chestnuts. You can also find olive and almond trees in the valleys along with martens, wild pigs and foxes roaming around in the forests.

Catalonia has a great past and a vibrant culture and its northeast region is very wealthy. The food available here is of the highest order and the mountainous climate is ideal for horseback riding throughout the year.

Spain's Salvador Dali Trail

The Salvador Dali Trail is located at the Dali Triangle of three towns, Cadaques, Figueres and Pubol. Dali, the painter was associated with all three towns starting from Cadaques in 1930. He stayed at a fisherman's hut and made innumerable paintings. Thereafter he shifted to Figueres and his works in the Dali Theatre-Museum reflect his entire life. The third place was the castle of Pubol where he matured as an artist and he provides reverence to his muse, Gala.

All the three areas mentioned above reflect the brilliance of the artist who was internationally known but he had strong local roots. Riding along this trail will put you in close touch with the works of Dali.

Spain's Andalusian Coast & Villages Trail Riding Vacation

The Coast to Village Trail ride stretches along the gulf of Roses and the sandy beaches of alluvial plain of Emporda. The ride will pass through many small towns such as Peralada. Many castles, casinos, convents, churches, libraries and museums will appear on the way. Excellent quality of wine is produced here and there are fantastic mansions and archways adorning the town of Peralada.

When the trail goes further inland, you will find that the lakes are no longer there and only marshes are left. Cattle sheds, farmhouses, meadows and hedgerows will be visible throughout. The Emproda Marshes Natural Park houses many animals and plants and is the haven for migratory birds.

You will be able to see the Albera and Rodes mountain ranges when you ride along the gulf of Leon and the Empordan. These will appear to come down towards the plain of Emporda and the sea. The most rugged scenery can be seen along with small inlets and natural harbors.

The Best Horseback Riding Vacations

Editor — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 06:05:20 +0000

For spending your vacations in the midst of nature and to relax in the open skies, there is nothing better then a Horseback riding vacation particularly if it is offered by travel and tour services. You can choose from any of the following locations in the world: United States, England, France, Italy, Spain, Ireland, Scotland, Morocco, Portugal, New Zealand, Greece, Costa Rica and Mexico.

Travel and tour services have experienced staff that visit and research all locations before recommending them to their clients. The staff checks all the facilities practically by doing all that the visitor will be experiencing during the vacation and ensuring that everything is in order. Their meticulous efforts enable them to offer the best horseback riding vacations in the world.

Horseback Trail Riding Vacations

If you love horses, want to see the countryside, meet people and travel like our ancestors, taking a horseback riding vacation is your best option. You can also improve your horseback riding skills as you will meet the best instructors in this field.

If you really want to see the farms, forests, hills and meadows, there is nothing like taking their trail riding vacations. You will also be able to become familiar with the local people and share their lifestyle particularly in regard to horseback riding.

Horseback Training Vacations

During the horseback riding vacations, their expert trainers will help you to enhance your riding skills at all stages of learning.

Horseback Riding Vacation Reservations

If you want to book your horseback riding vacation you can do so online or give them a call or contact a travel agent. You will be able to select the best vacation as per your needs.

Rating Your Horseback Riding Ability

Before choosing a horseback riding vacation you must have a basic knowledge and some experience of riding cross-country. You should also know whether you prefer English or Western tack for riding, the extent to which you can ride, whether you can ride on trails on different terrains or only in an arena and the level of your stamina and physical strength.

There are ride consultants available with the trips that can gauge your abilities and recommend the horseback riding vacation that would be most appropriate for you. So, get in touch with them if you want to have a really exciting riding holiday. There is no doubt that you will yearn to come back for such horseback riding vacations year after year.

Ireland Country Estate Horseback Riding Training And Trail

Editor — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:12:20 +0000

Horseback riding is not the only activity at Ireland's Mount Juliet estate. It also offers riders facilities for training, fishing, shooting sporting clays and playing golf. The vacation also provides opportunities for archery, tennis, a health club, spa and a heated pool where non-riding companions can also enjoy.

Horseback riding is taken seriously at Mount Juliet sporting resort where the added attraction is the unique opportunity to witness the birth of a foal during the foaling season. Moreover, cross country jumping, show jumping, fox hunting, dressage and hunt seat are the other activities that a rider can indulge in. You are at liberty to chalk out the program for horseback riding as per your convenience.

Ireland's Connemara Oceanside Trail Horseback Riding

Connemara is a very beautiful place where one can get lost in the magic of its extremely attractive surroundings. It provides beach riding opportunities that most horseback riders love to avail of. Irish hospitality will almost spoil you and you will feel that you are a member of their community. You can also enjoy the three things that the Irish love – a hearty laugh, a pint of beer at the pub and a good horse. Their horses have a strong frame and are steady and amiable.

Sligo, Donegal and Riding by the Sea, Unguided Trail Rides

Many companies offer trail rides in County Sligo and County Donegal which are a part of the Green Island. You can enjoy riding on sandy beaches, through mountains and forests and across lush green fields. The "Sligo Trail" spans the most attractive area in Ireland.

Horseback riders on this vacation are at liberty to ride as and when they like. All that you need to do is to gather your horse, saddlebags and a map and you can start exploring on your own. You can also book your own accommodation but if you are new to Sligo it is advisable to follow a pre-determined plan. The Sligo Trail covers beaches and the hills and lasts for seven days with well-planned trails and pre-booked accommodation.

The Donegal Trail covers beautiful and widespread landscape and the best scenery of Ireland, lasting for twelve days. The trail is well planned and a warm welcome awaits you and your horse at the end of each day.

You can also try out a new route every day by staying at the farm. Cross country course at the farm can also be used along with the stadium jumps.

Horseback Riding At Scotlands Argyll Castle Trail

Editor — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:41:20 +0000

The Highlands of Scotland have a rich history of determined people who resisted the onslaught of their enemies. This area is one of the most beautiful places in the world but a large part is accessible only through horseback riding. The natural beauty of the hills, streams, and the lochs makes the highland an ideal place for taking a horseback riding tour.

The trail for horseback riding is very exciting and allows the rider to do what he/she likes. They can increase the pace and slow it down depending on the terrain. The rider can ride along stonewalls or ditches or jump. If the rider desires, he/she can even swim with his horse.

The horses of this region, whether they are Scottish hunters, native Highlands, or even cobs are very fit with considerable amount of stamina. The riders should be adept at controlling the horses.

Scotland's Lochs and Forests Trail Riding Vacation

Scotland has beautiful glens, lochs and forests where most of its historical events took place. These places have been the subject of the inspiration of many a painter and poets. This is where you will be able to travel and indulge in horseback riding to your hearts content.

This horseback riding tour will cover a period of six nights and five days and you will be located near the eastern end of Crinan canal, at Brenfield, Ardishaig. You will be able to go over a hundred mile circular route and enjoy the beauty of the lochs and forests that you will cross during route.

The Rob Roy Trail

You get a glimpse of history when you go through the West Highlands on the routes along Loch Leven which were known only to Rob Roy. The horses for horseback riding available in this trail are very strong and have sufficient stamina to tackle this difficult terrain. When you go on this terrain with fellow horsemen or horsewomen, you will find yourself going back in history when mankind was entirely dependent on horses for transportation.

Your place of residence will be at historic places such as Drover's Inn which dates back to 1708 and other places of historical importance. When you go through Glen Kinglass, you will be able to see plenty of wildlife such as Red deer, Roe deer, Golden Eagle and grouse. The spectacular view of the glen will include excellent streams, moss covered rocks, dense forests and heather covered hills.

You will only be able to enjoy if you can walk, trot and canter and be in control of yourself in this superbly beautiful trail.

New Zealand Horseback Safari Trail

Editor — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:24:20 +0000

The horseback riding safari trail is located at Taupo on the shores of Lake Taupo in the North Island. It is a 2500-acre farm offering activities that riders can get involved in; besides enjoying the riding pleasures include an operative dairy, beef, sheep and horse farm. Thus, they will gain excellent ranch experiences such as sheep shearing, sheep mustering and wool production.

On their horseback riding trails, the riders will be able to view many native birds, wild turkey, deer, ducks and pheasants and spectacular scenery of the farms. They can also view the youngest volcano of Taupo. You can enjoy the excellent landscape and the fantastic hills when you are galloping on your sturdy mount. Riders can also enjoy a rejuvenating swim in Lake Taupo. Both English and Western riding styles with trained horses are available. For the young riders, ponies are also at hand.

New Zealand 's South Pacific Beach Trail Riding Vacation

You will be stationed at Homestead at Puketiti station, which is in the midst of 90 acres of forest area, where you will stay for 6 days. Horseback riders will be able to enjoy the beauty of the trail along South Pacific, which is on the east coast of New Zealnd. The station is privately owned and bears testimony to the historic buildings and machinery of the olden days.

Built in 1908, the Homestead is surrounded by trees that have come from the whole world. There are plenty of native birds that add a touch of evening birdsong atmosphere that is unforgettable. The best part of your rides will be the local beaches where you can go past the early settlements, which were famous for their lamb trade. You will also witness meetinghouses reminiscent of Maori culture. The natural beauty and the difficult and rugged terrain of New Zealand will captivate the riders and allure them to return to this place year after year.

New! Jumper Training in New Zealand with Greg Best

If you are interested in a new horseback riding jumper-training program, you should go to the equestrian center in Hastings, New Zealand, which is being run by Greg Best, who can train you for all levels of jumper riding.

Greg is the current coach for the New Zealand show jumping team. He runs a weeklong training program and coaches all levels of show jumping. The learners can accomplish their training in a relaxed atmosphere and climate that New Zealand offers along with the best horses in the world. Greg teaches with examples of real-life experiences and trains the learners to think independently so that they can master any horse.

France Horseback Riding Vacations

Editor — Sun, 31 May 2009 21:53:20 +0000

Horseback riding is an adventurous activity and when you can taste the best wines along the way the result can be exhilarating. That is exactly what you can expect if you are on a horseback riding vacation in France's Bordeaux Trail. The noblest wines are produced in the Gironde area, notable among which are Cote de Blaye, Bordeaux Superior, Lalande, Medoc, Saint-Emilion, etc.

The Gironde area is very picturesque with rich agricultural land, sandy beaches, mountains, farms, castles and meadows. A large part of this area still maintains its pristine ambience. You will be able to tour the vineyards on the way and enjoy tasting the wines. You can visit the magnificent castle, Blaye Citadel, which has a very large garden completely covered with flowers.

The horses available here are of mixed breed conforming to the French saddle variety. Small hotels and farmhouses will serve as your accommodation on the way.

Loire Valley Trail Ride: Horseback Riding Vacation in France

Beautiful chateaux line up the banks of the Loire River along with the Loire Valley which is abundantly endowed with rolling hills, sunflower fields, forests and vineyards. The horseback riding experience at the Loire Valley Trail will take the rider along vineyards, forests, chateaux and castles in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Chateau de Menetou-Salon and a chateaux for wine tasting will come along your route and you can enjoy the ride through forests and wildlife when you are in the "Sologne" area. As you come near the castle of La Verrerie in the evening, its reflection in the magical lake will simply enchant you. The fortress at La Chapelle d'Angillon is a good place for picnics and for visiting the castle.

Provence Inn-to-Inn Ride: France Horseback Riding Vacation

The Luberon region of Provence is ideal for horseback riding as it is full of vineyards, fields of lavender and olive groves. Starting from the base of the Luberon Mountain Range you can ride higher each day along roads and trails which are a forgotten reminder of the past. You can enjoy the sight of the Mediterranean Sea, the Alps and Provence, all at the same time.

Riding a Camargue or Selle Francais horse and being led by an English-speaking guide, you will have the best experience of your life. At noon, you can expect an excellent picnic lunch and at night a most relaxing shower and a comfortable bath. This horseback riding vacation lasts for six nights and five days and takes you through the lower part of the French Alps on the road to Lourdes.

Horseback Riding Vacations In Usa

Editor — Fri, 29 May 2009 05:44:20 +0000

California's Northern Coast Trail Riding Vacation

Horseback riding along the serene California coast is a wonderful experience and the five-day California Northern Coast Trail can put you in close touch with nature. Your base camp for the first part of the horseback trail ride vacation will be a spectacular seaside inn and on the last day you will run across the backcountry to the century inn in a coastal town that will be reminiscent of its 19th century environments. Deer, foxes and bobcats still roam in the trails that you will explore while on your trail ride. You will be able to enjoy riding on a Tennessee walking horse because of its gentle nature and its swift gait.

Horseback riding on this trail will take you through coastal grassland and creeks. Against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean you will meet interesting wildlife such as hawks, herons, deer and even coyote and bobcats. The weariness of the whole day can be eliminated under the open skies with the "California outdoor hot tub".

Colorado Horseback Riding Vacations

Mountain Trail Ride

The High Meadows Ranch is situated near Steamboat Springs, Colorado and it reminds you of the past when the beautiful states of America were being established. Horseback riding will take you to unimaginable areas where porcupines, elks, eagles, mule deer and hawks can be observed. You will have to trot, walk or canter depending on the trail conditions. You will see meadows full of wildflowers and Aspen tree groves.

Horseback riding in this undulating terrain needs sturdy horses and comfortable saddle seats. The western horses and saddles provided here are ideally suited for these requirements and the Strawberry Park Hot Springs provide much-needed relief when the rider wants to relax muscles.

Fishing at Silver Creek and campfire cooking are the added attractions that will allure you to this Colorado Horseback riding vacation.

Texas' Roundup Trail Ride

This trail is situated near Graham in West Texas. Its rugged terrain, the Brazos River and the Blue Herons that fly over it make it perfect for horseback riding. Natural Horsemanship that creates a boding between the rider and the horse can easily be learnt here.

Moreover, you will learn how to gather cattle especially the Corriente and Texas Longhorns. The fun will increase when you learn how to hold the herd and the technique of moving the herd from one place to another. You will get the feeling of a traditional cowboy. The other important learning opportunity is the setting up of a Chuck Wagon and packing of a packhorse.

These are great horseback riding vacations which you must experience if you are inclined towards horsemanship.