By Audrey Pavia

While many people think that all you need to do to ride is put saddle to horse and you to saddle, it’s actually quite a bit more complicated than that.

Can You Handle It?
Riding is a demanding sport that requires proper training, ability, and gear. In order to really enjoy your horseback vacation, you need to have a solid foundation in the basics. Muscles, especially in the legs, need to be trained. Other areas need a little time in the saddle to "toughen up."

Essential Skills
Before you embark on your equine adventure, spend at least a few months--longer if you can--taking riding lessons. Find out in advance if the riding you’ll be doing is English or Western, and study that particular discipline. You should learn how to mount and dismount, develop balance in the saddle, cue the horse, and ride at the various gaits. Lessons also will help you develop the proper muscles for riding.

Gear Up
Most of the gear will be provided by the same outfitter that supplies your horse, so the only items you need to worry about are your own personal effects. An equestrian helmet, proper riding footwear, and comfortable cotton/Lycra breeches are a must. If you’ll be riding in cool weather, bring a sweatshirt and hiking jacket so you can strip down layers as needed. Bring gloves to keep your hands warm and to protect your skin from chafing. Also, consider investing in equestrian underwear to reduce tenderness during long hours in the saddle.

Speak the Language
Tack: The equipment worn by your horse, including saddle and bridle.
Bit: Horse’s mouthpiece, usually made from steel.
Bridle: Headgear used on the horse during riding, includes reins and bit.
Halter: Equipment worn on the horse’s head for leading or tying.
Gelding: Castrated male horse.
Mare: Female horse.
Mule: Offspring of a horse and donkey. Nickname of many a stubborn horse.
English: Style of riding using a lightweight saddle with a shallow seat. Reins are held in both hands. Think foxhunt--Tallyho!
Western: Style of riding using a heavier saddle with a deeper seat. Reins are held in left hand. Think Bonanza--Yeehaw!
Gaits: The different speeds the horse travels: walk, trot (or jog), and canter (or lope).
Post: Up and down movement in English riding performed in rhythm to horse’s trot. If not done properly, it can mean "ouch" for both of you.

Audrey Pavia is the author of Horses for Dummies.