If you spend enough time with horsey people, you realise they seem to talk a different language. We’ve received a few questions about the meaning of horse-related words so thought we’d answer them here. If you have heard any horse-related words that you don’t understand, just send them through to lizzie@hqmagazine.co.za and we’ll put them […]
Upgrade your pony vocab, Part 1 Read More »
Q: Why do we hold our little fingers (pinkies) underneath the reins? Wouldn’t it be easier if we didn’t? A: Our little finger goes between the two reins on a double bridle – which is what everyone used to ride in in days gone by. Also, it’s like having something in reserve brake-wise. You can
Q: What’s the difference between a star and a snip? Aren’t they both white markings on a pony’s face? A: They are both white markings but a star is a small white marking between a pony’s eyes and a snip is an even smaller marking between a pony’s nostrils. Some ponies have both a star
Q: The pony I usually ride is a bit slow. I don’t know whether I should get a whip or not. If I do, should I get one with a thin end, or a thick one, or doesn’t it matter? A: Most riding school ponies tend to ignore their riders if they possibly can. You
Q: I always fall forwards onto my pony’s neck when I land after a jump. It’s a bit scary! Any advice on how I can stay in the saddle a bit more? A: It sounds as though you are getting too far forward when you jump, and letting your legs slide backwards. Practise your jumping
Q&A: Scary jumping! Read More »
Q: What’s the best way to brush my pony’s tail? It’s thick and difficult to get a brush through. A: Tails need some care to get them into shape. Start by standing at the side of your pony and taking his tail in one hand. Shake a few hairs free and brush through these with
Q: Two of my non-riding friends keep telling me that horse riders don’t do anything, and that they just sit there. How can I prove to them that riders do something? A: The problem you have is that the better the rider, the less they appear to be doing! That’s what every rider dreams of
Q&A: Don’t just sit there! Read More »
Q: My instructor sometimes tells me my pony is on the wrong leg in canter. What does this mean and how can I notice it myself? A: When a pony canters, if he is on the left leg (or lead), then his two left legs, front and back, will take a longer stride than his
