Equestrian Real Estate - Important Tips Before You Gallop Away to a Deal

Horse ownership has become a modern trend and widely popular venture especially for those who have the affluence to afford. Buying a horse and maintaining its ownership entails innumerable responsibilities and priority for owners such as acquiring an equestrian real estate. It is quite imperative that you consider purchasing a land made especially for the maintenance and care of your steeds. It is not a normal kind of investment because it definitely needs significant amount of funds or financial resource before you can jumpstart your options.

Here are few of the components you need to find and use as criteria for your equestrian real estate.

1. Acreage. Have a substantial vastness of land where you can take care of your horses, clean and feed them and other ways of sustenance. You must be very careful however when you choose the land you desire to make your equestrian property. You must also allot a small portion of the property where you can stay in close proximity with your horses. The quality of the soil is important because it determines what quality of grasses and plants grow in the vicinity. Make sure that the place is conducive for good grazing and feeding of your stallions. Watch out most especially for weeds which are considered fatal to your horses because a wrong choice may definitely lead to loss of your animals and investment as well.

2. Water Supply. This is another important component you need to consider when scouting for an equestrian property. You need to have sufficient amount of water supply for the cleaning and sustenance of your horses. Do not only rely on the quantity of water you get but make sure the quality will boost the health of your steeds. You can have your own research to determine is the water is of good quality and standard that you can use for your animals. Likewise, have a good drainage system installed in the property because muddy surroundings or mush is quite unsuitable for horses to live in.

3. Fences. This is another item that needs immediate attention accordingly, especially for the safety of your horses. You can find different types of fence you can install around the property to keep your horses from escaping as well as keeping other animals out of the premises. Some use hedges to cover the surrounding areas but there are more reliable types of fences which are more resistant to intruders and other unwelcomed visits.

Equestrian real estate is more costly and expensive than any other ventures you may embark on in real estate. The fact that you can afford horse ownership gives you additional responsibility in making sure that you keep your steed high in quality and health. Either for personal pleasure or business purposes, horse and equestrian property ownership is valuable and needed careful attention to get the most out of your ventures. With the right resources and careful research, you can get the best real estate property for your equestrian passion and pursuits.

For more information, tricks and tips when it comes to home improvement and real estate as a whole, simply visit Arizona Real Estate Guide and Ohio Home Blog.

Basics of Equestrian Training

Equestrian training is a somewhat difficult practice. Training horses does not only involve giving directions to your horse but rewards that must follow the action. Every time you want to put across your instruction, a new and closer bond is created between the instructor and the horse.

Before you start guiding the horse, you have to ensure that you are a good rider and you have the required technique to control the horse. You need to be highly skillful in order to understand the nature, behavior and actions of your horse as they would be of different kind and characteristics. Each horse requires a different approach and so you need to be sensitive about the needs.

The popularity of the horseback adventure is on a rising note and plenty of foundations are coming up in association to the equestrian training. A horse put up for sale may also undergo training and could be quite alluring for people who love horses. Always remember that training a horse is considered to be more dangerous than riding a trained horse.

The equestrian training business may seem to be quite romantic according to few of the trainers but in reality it is not different than any other form of business. Even in case you are an expert in horse training, you need to have efficient management skills to succeed. For a professional, it is not very difficult to start with if a person can cope with all the initial problems that arises but to continue it further, you need expertise as well as thirst for success.

Types of equestrian training

Horseback Riding Lessons - This particular lesson is only for those people who intend to learn to ride a horse in the most secured possible approach and also imparts training to the horses that need guidance.

The beginners on the equestrian training are guided on how to balance on the back of the horse without holding back the horse and disturbing its balance. A lunge line is attached to the rider for security purpose held by the trainer to guide the students on the basics of balance and includes steering and learning as a significant part of this chapter. These are the part with which you can control a horse and make it dance to your instruction. As a beginner when you succeed in controlling a horse in the arena without any instructor, you are ready to move a step ahead to the jumping or on to dressage.

Jumping Lessons- After learning the technique of balancing, the next lesson is of jumping. The equestrian training makes the jumpers leap over the cavalettis and poles, no sooner than the learner balances themselves on the horse back. The horse starts walking quickly forward and backward getting ready for another jump when the rider needs to hold the body in a two point position so that the body balance is not lost during the next jump. Then there is ride over the cross rails, small verticals and gallop over the poles. The ground will get more difficult as the level increases.

Dressage Lessons - This part of the equestrian training will teach you on further enhanced skills where the rider learns about balancing and at the same time train the horse such that it becomes more rider-friendly. The competition Dressage, the art of dressage and the Dressage Cross Country are very vital for this process and instruct the riders on a lot of valuable aspect of riding.

On successful completion of this part, the riders can move out of the arena and ride their horses to cross countries. This part of the equestrian training lesson will test all the previous learnt skills of the both the rider as well as the horse.

Writing is my life and I love it. I write a lot of Articles and Blogs to relay all of my Experience about horse riding. To know more about various equestrian tours Click Here.

Equestrian Could Be Your Alternative Sport

Not all of us knows how to ride a horse. It needs a lot of training and skills in order for you to drive a horse. They are considered as their main transportation in the early centuries, especially on carriages. If you watched Disney movies like the Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and The Beast, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and the others, you may notice that all of them are not in the present ages. Their prince charming rides a horse in order to look after their beautiful princess, not cars or airplanes. Until now, horses are still in use for those who like to learn how to ride with them and to use them in the equestrian competition. Speaking of equestrian, it is a unique sport where you and the horse will take the challenge on jumping into different obstacle courses. A term called equestrianism is all about the skills and ability of you and the horse of responding each other in the competition. Equestrian is popular in the Olympics and mini-Olympics, where lots of representatives in different countries are participating in order to win the competition.

Compared to any popular sport like basketball, soccer, billiard, tennis, baseball and football, this sport has a lot to learn because it's not only about you. There will be no equestrian without a horse, and that's why they created this sport as a unique one. It will test different athletes from all around the world on how they and their horses will cooperate in terms of jumping into small and long-ranged obstacle courses. The common item that were used on the competition is the equestrian saddle. It is used for the rider to sit comfortably when riding a horse, which is very common to all of us. In a Portugal shop, there were lots of unique equestrian saddles that you need to buy for your horse in order to be recognized as a unique equestrian rider. All of the items needed for equestrian is very important, but you must give priority to your partner. You have no other partner to compete in the equestrian except your horse. If your horse is not in good condition days before the equestrian competition begins, you need to take action to give proper care to your horse.

Equestrian is a serious sport like no other, so you need to discipline yourself and the horse in order to be confident in winning the competition. It needs a lot of equestrianism for most of your time, which your horse needs to accomplish jumping the different short and long obstacle courses. In this kind of sport, the judges will deduct a point if one or more of the bars in the obstacles are touched or fall. The objective of this sport is to let your horse complete the course without any bar falling on the obstacle being galloped. An alternative sport like the equestrian is a perfect fit for both young and aged adults, but not necessarily the elder ones. All of us are not required to learn about this sport, but consider that this is one of the great alternatives you will experience like no other.

If you are interested on all unique products of Portugal, kindly visit our Portugal shop where you can find equestrian saddles, wine, embroidery and gourmet.

Equestrian Equipment

Quite often, riders think only about their own comfort and appearance and spend lavishly on their apparel, forgetting that their horse also deserves the highest of comfort levels. All horses need a lot of care whether they are enjoyed simply for recreation or for professional sport and other commercial purposes. So your horse needs quality equestrian equipment whether you are a professional rider or a casual one. It is very much a part of proper horse care, which also includes feeding and bathing, proper stables, grooming to observe any injuries, bites, cuts etc which may need first aid attention. Proper equipment must be ready and handy to provide the best of health and long life to your horses.

Equestrian equipment includes, but is not confined to, saddles, bridles, reins, horse bits, head collars, brushes, combs, hoof picks, sweat scrapers, trimmers, clippers, bandages, rugs, neck covers, etc. In short, anything that is related to the care of the horse can be referred to as equestrian equipment. Even though the list is quite long, you will find it necessary to purchase many of them. Fortunately, most of them are a once in a life-time investment and their durability will justify the expense.

The most important thing to remember is that the equipment you purchase fits the horse well. Equestrian equipment should be of the right size and style. In other words, the horse should be comfortable and happy with it. Any problem with the equipment is bound to affect the horse as well as the rider. Hence, if the horse resents any of the equipment because it is uncomfortable, it is wise to replace them with matching ones rather than forcing the ones that you have onto an unwilling animal.

Shopping at an outlet that has the entire range of equestrian equipment can save you money, time and effort. Perhaps the easiest and most convenient mode of purchase is from an online store. Online stores are open 24x7. All details and descriptions of the equipment are available on the website to help you to decide on your choice and order them from the comfort of your home. You can save a lot of money this way, since online stores do not have to meet the same overheads that normal retail stores have to incur. However, you must ensure that the online store you choose has a good reputation, since you can't touch and feel the products until after you buy them. If you are a novice in the equestrian world, it might also be a good idea to find a site that allows you to discuss your needs over the phone so that you can get the right help you need to find the equestrian equipment that your horse deserves.

The most important thing to remember is that the equipment you purchase fits the horse well. Equestrian equipment [http://www.stoneybrook.co.uk/pg23796/Equestrian-Equipment.html] should be of the right size and style. In other words, the horse should be comfortable and happy with it. Any problem with the equipment is bound to affect the horse as well as the rider. Hence, if the horse resents any of the equipment because it is uncomfortable, it is wise to replace them with matching ones rather than forcing the ones that you have onto an unwilling animal.

Equestrian Exercises Start With Pilates

I am a rider and have competed up to International level. I am a Physiotherapist and a Pilates Educator. I have had numerous injuries from falls and working with horses and I practice what I preach and teach and have been able to continue riding at a high level with success. I teach equestrian exercises which are pilates based exercises specific for the horse rider.

Pilates Specific for Horse Riders 

This is what I use as my equestrian exercises. Any body can attend and follow a pilates class and most likely improve their posture and fitness. This will not improve your riding.There are so many available these days and at a great cost. If you want to follow pilates to improve your riding you need to look at a specific program designed just for horse riders.

You Need to Learn Pilates 

When I am working I ask my patients do they do Pilates. I have heard so many say they tried, it but it did not do them any good. These are the classes that are not teaching their pupils about Pilates they are only giving follow the leader classes. Horse Riders are in this category, you need to learn Pilates and apply it to your riding not just follow a leader doing exercises.

I ask my riding pupils if they have heard of Pilates....some are getting interested, they have heard it is good for posture.

In many of my riding pupils I see poor posture, round shoulders, stiff lower back, weak upper back, poor lower leg stability and certainly poor sit trot and loose in the seat at the canter.

How Can Equestrian Exercises Help?

Look at yourself before you blame the horse!

When I give a riding lesson I look at the riders posture first. The horse will always go better with a better rider. The horse will only be as good as the rider will allow, not ask. I teach riders about their own posture problems first. We look at upper body strength and the ability to hold the shoulders square not round. We asses the strength of the back muscles and how these work in dressage riding. I test the abdominals and the strength of the core muscles. This is the single most important muscle to have strong and functioning in the horse rider. These are specific equestrian exercises for the rider

I Teach Pilates For Horse Riders as the main Equestrian Exercises To Follow

A rider must learn how to initiate and engage the deep transverse Abdominal muscle to apply core stability in the saddle. This is an equestrian exercise.

The lower back also must be flexible and have the ability to tilt forwards and backwards as it rolls in rhythm with the horses hind leg movement. Specific stretches to gain this is an equestrian exercise. A stiff lower back will stop this movement the horse will tighten and resist. A rider following certain equestrian exercises such has Applied Posture Riding will be able to fix these problems.

Many instructors are able to see the rider problems but not tell how to fix them.

As A Physiotherapist I can assess the problems I see riders have with their posture. As a rider I know how to ride and I know how to instruct. As a Pilates teacher I teach core stability strength and function. I have been able to teach riders specific Pilates based movement patterns and apply pilates concepts in the saddle. This program is Called Applied Posture Riding. For more very unique equestrian exercise follow the links below and improve your riding.

Annette Willson

1. Physiotherapist

2. Pilates Teacher

3. Elite Horse Rider

http://www.applied-posture-riding.com.

Pilates For Horse Riders

Equestrian Photography

Equestrian photography is one of the lesser known, though nonetheless still popular forms of photography. For those of you who do not know what it is, Equestrian Photography is the Photography of Horses, both in their natural surroundings and in competitive situations.

Equestrian Photography can be divided into the following sections:

1. Competitive Equestrian Photography

While this gives one visions of photographers jostling each other out of the way to get the best shot, I am merely referring to the practice of photographing horse sports!

Horse Sports include the following disciplines:

Racing

Showjumping (known in America as stadium jumping)

Dressage

Showing

Eventing

Equitation

Driving

Vaulting

Western Pleasure

Western Trail

Barrel Racing

Rodeo

Gymkhana

Polo

Polo-cross

There could be others, but these are all the ones that I can think of right now, in mainstream equestrian competition.

What is the Key to Being a Successful Equestrian Photographer?

The key to being a successful Equestrian Photographer, is that you must know your subject, the way portrait and wedding photographers, know theirs. The way that fashion photographers understand models. That, in a nutshell, means that you should be a horse person. You should understand horses. You need to understand the way a horse moves.

Your success as an equestrian photographer is absolutely dependent on being able to capture a horse in their most classically correct positions, and make all the riders look like top athletes.

Let us take Dressage as an example. Dressage is a highly specialized form of horse sport. Each movement requires the utmost precision by the rider, and years of training for the horse and rider to get it right.

I was once in a line-up of three photographers at a Dressage show. Two of us, knew each other from the local equestrian circuit, and were enjoying the spectacle, animatedly chatting away about the new faces, new horses, and how the competitors and our regular clients were doing. The third one in our group was new. We did everything we could to help her, and explain what was going on etc, and while she valiantly snapped away, and tried to follow our advice about how to best capture the horses, at one point she exclaimed, "But this is like watching PAINT DRY!"

She had absolutely NO idea about how best to capture the horses, because she did not understand the sport.

Time and experience will teach you how to take good photographs, but only passion and interest in your subject will make your photographs truly great. Since making money by capturing equestrian competition, is largely dependent on selling your photographs to the competitors (sadly newspapers often have bigger sports in mind), you need to understand the sport, to be able to make your competitors look good.

This means knowing what angle to capture each movement at. It often, in the case of dressage, means memorizing the test being performed, so that you know exactly which move is coming and when, so that you can be prepared for the 'extended trot' for example, and be sure to get at least a few great shots of that.

The better you can make your competitors look (in other words the closer they look to that image of perfection seen in the very top riders) the more likely they are to buy your photographs. 

A fellow equestrian photographer and I always joke and talk about our best shots in terms of the size they sold for, in other words, the better the horse and rider combination looks, the larger the print they ordered of it.

I have seen many 'wannabe' equestrian photographers. They come and they go. Those without real passion and conviction for their subject, DO NOT LAST. The photographer I mentioned who talked about it being like 'paint drying' lasted just--one--day.

However, do not be despondent, if there is one thing that horsey people like nearly as much as horses, it's talking about horses. If you don't know what you're looking for when you start out, ASK.

Meet people, pat their horses, ask about their breeding, their training, and learn as much as you can. People will be very happy to share information with you, and how they want their horses to look, so there is always hope, if this is the avenue of photography that you wish to pursue.

2. Natural Equestrian Photography

This area of equestrian photography usually arises out of the competitive side. That is, clients who purchase your photographs of their competitions, will sooner or later ask you to come and take photographs of their equines in their natural state at home. While this draws many parallels with competitive photography, in that you need to understand (or at the very least not be afraid of) horses, it is a different ball game.

It is usually best to charge, as you would for a 'human' portrait session. Chances are your subject is going to include the rider anyway, whether in their riding gear or not. Usually the natural side of it will include numerous head shots of the horse with or without the owner/rider, and also shots of the horse running free. There are many techniques one could employ to get your subject moving, and getting the best out of them, but this is not the place to go into those lengthy explanations.

Lastly, to be be a good equestrian photographer, you need to have the following personality attributes.

You need to love horses.

You need to love standing, a lot. Like for 8 hours a day. You will be the first to arrive at the show, and the last to leave.

You need to be prepared for all types of weather. You will get rained on more than once, I can assure you.

You need to love fairground food (hot dogs/hamburgers) or be disciplined enough at packing sandwiches.

Horse poop is basically just grass, so when you stand in it do not scream like a girl. It is okay. You should be wearing boots anyway.

You need the bladder control of an elephant! If you want to get all the shots, then you *can't* go when you want to. Hope for a lull in proceedings and then run like hell.

Smile and make friends with other equestrian photographers, and HELP each other. Chances are you're the same kind of person, and will actually become life long friends.

Vanessa MacLeod is one of Cape Town's Premier Graphic Designers and Photographers [http://www.vanessamacleod.com/blog] and can regularly be seen photographing in and around Cape Town. She has a successful Freelance Business which also includes Wedding Photography, Children, Family, Baby and Maternity Portrait Photography and the full suite of graphic design services including web design. Her website is also a great resource for photographers and designers as it contains a lot of useful information and templates to help grow the industry.

Equestrian Fashion - Designs That Challenge Many High Street Brands and You Get Functionality!

More and more people are realising that Equestrian Clothing isn't just for Horse Riders. It makes sense really when you think that Horse Riding is seen as an affluent sport/hobby and these affluent people are going to want to look good. Not only do people want to look good but the clothes have to be practical because anyone who has been involved with horses will fully appreciate that functionality is a must. Attention to detail is what makes some of the better brands stand out and with fresh new design ideas they keep their seasonal ranges fashionable.

If you wanted a warm and waterproof winter jacket you might look to the high street for inspiration or you might think about trying an 'outdoors' outlet but why not check out the equestrian sector. This market will specialise in 'warm and waterproof', as any horse lover will know that this is a must, but they also incorporate some fantastic designs and technical fabrics to boot. Some of these technical fabrics also make the summer clothing lines extremely practical and very functional. Every clothing designer targeting the equestrian market will undoubtedly be conscious of the need for high quality and hard wearing design in every garment.

If you look at just a few of the quality brands that are currently available you will see the perfect harmony between fashion design and real attention to detail when making these garments practical for everyday use. Kingsland originates from Scandinavia and the brand has been designed by Lin Kingsroed who herself comes from a family of top riders. Kingsland has a reputation for its subtle blend of classic equestrian and up to date styling and with the combination of top quality materials makes it a favourite brand with many top riders.

Anky Technical Casuals is the brand that has been launched by triple Olympic champion Anky van Grunsven. Anky herself has a reputation for being one of the best modern day dressage riders in the world. The range is based around Anky's belief that there was a real need for a fashionable line of clothing which combines technical materials with optimal comfort, quality and usability.

Gersemi is another hugely popular brand and it too originates from Scandinavia. Gersemi market themselves as 'The Equestrian Fashion Brand' and they have a passion for quality and making people feel confidently stylish.

So you see with so many top quality fashion minded brands emerging in the equestrian market there is a real potential that these products can reach beyond equestrian markets and be a very viable choice for anyone wanting quality, functional and designer clothing.

About Riders Paradise

Riders Paradise is an online retailer dedicated to offering only the best brands for horse and rider. Top quality fashion brands are available and we hand pick each garment from our branded clothing collections. Items can be, and are regularly sent to all four corners of the world and we pride ourselves on outstanding service and value.

To view some of the products that inspired this article please visit http://www.ridersparadise.co.uk

Equestrian Pilates Specific For Horse Riders

Equestrian Pilates.. What Does This Mean?

Horse riding requires a very static low range of movement from most of the trunk and limb muscles. It is unlike running or athletics or a ball sport, all of which require the limbs to move through large ranges of motion. All sports require good core stability but horse riding in particular demands a strong core for the stability required to apply effective balanced aids to the horse.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is the term used to exercise the posture and the mostly the deep core abdominal muscles. It has been marketed as the new wave exercise program for a flat stomach and toned body. This is exactly what it can do if taught properly. Unfortunately many people are attending pilates classes and basically just doing aerobics with a tighter tummy as the main instruction.

Pilates is the specific training of the Transverse Abdominal muscle (TVA). It must be taught by a Physiotherapist or exercise Physiologist. Not all pilates classes are of use.

Equestrian Pilates is even more complex. Horse riders must first learn how to contract, then test and train the TVA muscle. But anyone can learn this and not use it in the saddle.

Equestrian Pilates or pilates specific for the horse rider is the most valuable program any rider can follow to improve their riding and improve their posture. Horse riders with a strong core ride with so much more skill.

What is Equestrian Pilates?

Equestrian pilates is how the rider uses deep core stability to be a great rider. Those riders that have a good functioning core are great riders those that dont need to learn 'how to use their core to improve their riding and their posture.

Just doing pilates exercises is not enough. A rider must learn how to use the core muscles for stability of the lower back and the trunk. The core muscles are involved in all paces of the horse. The sit trot especially requires a functioning deep core muscle. The canter requires a flexible pelvis and lower back. This movement is controlled by the TVA muscle. But How you ask?

Who Teaches Equestrian Pilates?

Applied Posture Riding is equestrian pilates. This program has become one of the most popular, effective quality programs on the net. Applied Posture Riding is Pilates For Horse Riders. It is important in so many sports to learn about the use of the muscles and how how they function within your sport. This program is specific for horse riders. Applied Posture Riding looks at the anatomy and function of all the horse riding muscles. The pilates specific exercises go into detail about the deep core muscles and the main postural muscles used by the rider.

The rider has the information to test, train and learn movement patterns specific to the horse riding muscles.

The training of the deep core TVA muscles is focused on the horse rider. The exercises train the core for riding specifically. The upper body is strengthened as well and the mobility of the hips, shoulders and spine are all addressed in this equestrian pilates program

Who is Best Qualified to Teach Equestrian Pilates?

I have seen and treated many people who do pilates. I have instructed many horse riders who do pilates. Very few actually knew how to function in the saddle using pilates.

I am a Physiotherapist and and horse rider. I am a Pilates educator. I teach equestrian pilates or Pilates specific for horse Riders.

Applying pilates in the saddle requires a rider to teach you. Applied Posture riding is the most effective program to do this. For more information have a look at the website below. Good luck with your riding.

Annette Willson
1. Physiotherapist
2. Pilates Teacher
3. Elite Horse Rider
http://www.applied-posture-riding.com. Pilates For Horse Riders

Equestrian Real Estate Communities Brings Us Out of the Dark Ages

The pleasure of seeing horses run and gaze the pastures come with an appreciation for life. It has an enigma associated with it. Horses bring a sense of peacefulness and serene feeling to the atmosphere. For years, humans have endured horses and their nostalgic presence. Horses have for years played an active role in society, past and present.

There are many types of horses, but we will discuss the pristine nature of equestrian horses. Owners are always frazzled when seeking a new home for their beautiful and magnificent creatures. These sport horses have the softest and most delicate coat of fur. Their hoofs are embroiled in the finest drapery and jewels. Equine horses are catered to and are well taken care of by their owners. These are elite horses with tremendous strength, obedience, and zest.

Equestrian horses must be properly trained with continuance. These are competitive horses which require a great deal of space to run free. The best training and schools money can buy is spent to house and properly train these horses. There only leaves one question, where do equestrians find homes for their stunning stallions?

This seems to be a popular question, because it turns out there is a growing business for equestrian real estate. At one time, not very long ago your only option for finding the space and tranquility needed to house and train horses was to buy a ranch or farm. We are finally saying goodbye to those days and hello to active real estate communities, specially designed to house horses and families.

The lifestyle of a horse in general is a massive one compared to the one of humans, they can eat ten times as much. In the past when you lived on a ranch or farm you had to do all the work yourself or hire help, but now we have these new age equinotic communities which employ staff members whose specific duties is to tend to the horses 24 hours a day. It's easy to see the benefits of equestrian real estate.

Not only are these horses catered to, they also have state-of-the-art equipment, such as air-conditioned and heated stables, saunas specifically made for horses, bathing mechanisms, automated feeding schedules, etc. Horses are living like royalty and treated with the up most respect in these communities. Some facilities staff members take the horse for daily walks around the park and allow the horses to playfully intermingle with other stallions. In most places the horses are also securely guarded by electronic cameras and GPS tracking devices as well as the communities staffed security.

Just because these types of communities are designed for the prestige horses doesn't mean that families are left out. These divine gated communities include luxury real estate and equestrian styled homes to suit any family. The equestrian homes are spacious and eloquent with marvelous style. These neighborhoods are equipped with Olympic size swimming pools, golf courses, country clubs, tennis courts, and more. The area has fine dining restaurants, shopping centers and malls.

The luxury real estate equestrian homes are amazingly beautiful. You simply cannot go wrong as an equine owner to live in one of these extraordinary homes. These homes allow you to handle your day to day lifestyle without worries while still keeping a personal bond with your stable. The quality time you earn with family alone is enough to take advantage of equestrian homes and real estate property.

Michael David is an expert writer with years of experience in association with Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Community. They offer over 1,200 acres of luxury real estate properties. These Florida real estate properties are located in beautiful Ocala, Fl. I highly recommend you check them out!

Equestrian Rider

For the equestrian rider, horseback riding or equestrianism, is outlined as the practice of riding on horseback. This refers to the skill of riding or driving horses/ponies (the equine). Horses are ridden for practical working purposes as well as for therapeutic purposes. They are also used in competitive sports and recreational activities.

Horses are often domesticated and are used as working animals. They are used by the police, farmers to pull carts, a form of travel and even entertainment purposes such as sport or on a circus. Many techniques are used for training a pony, dependent on what the pony will be used for.

Horses are also used in many specific ways. They are now fully integrated in competitive sports like show jumping, equestrian driving, endurance riding, rodeo amongst others. They are also part of more recreational activities like fox hunting or hacking and have been so for many hundreds of years.

There are many varieties of horseback riding, but the two most popular in the world today are English riding and Western riding. Already well established in America, Western Riding is fast taking the World by storm. One of its most crowd pleasing disciplines, the fast and exciting reining, is now approved by the FEI and included in the World Equestrian Games. It is also hoped that reining will be included in the 2012 Olympics. English riding is an equestrian discipline with many different styles and the horse wear such as tack and saddle equestrian are distinctly different, definitely a lot stricter with regards to what is expected. However, at the most basic level, most versions require an equestrian rider to use both hands on the reins, rather than just one hand, as is seen in western riding.

Horseback riding was often used for farm work, transport and unfortunately even warfare. Now however, it is being used by licensed medical pros to treat different incapacities, may it be physical, emotional, social or cognitive.

People who have emotional, social or mental incapacity learn how to build a relationship by interacting with horses. The trust and faithfulness that these horses demonstrate, are a catalyst in the individuals recovery, allowing them to grow this trust to become a more developed part of their characteristic.

It is important for the would be equestrian rider to develop a bond and an understanding with the horse first, as the removal of any fear beforehand is essential in the prevention of any possible future problems such as kick outs.

Have a look at our horse wear from the UK including horse riding hats.

Equestrian Riding Lessons - Resources and Guides

Imagine donning your equestrian riding apparel, your riding helmet, and your horse riding boots and sitting astride one of those sleek, gentle giants for the very first time. The perspective is amazing and the communication that occurs between you and your horse can be an incredible experience. However, being the large, powerful animals that they are, horses can be dangerous. It is important to receive a solid education in the basics of horsemanship to ensure that you develop good equestrian riding habits and that your lessons are safe and enjoyable. That is also why the proper equestrian riding apparel, helmet, and horse riding boots are at least as important as finding the best trainer.

There are countless resources and guides available to help you find the best barn and trainer for your style of riding and your experience level. For the novice rider, information about equestrian riding lessons can be found through riding schools and riding camps, nearby barns, horse associations, the local 4H/FFA office or club, large animal veterinarians, and your community Parks and Recreation office. If you have never ridden before, there are several points that you must keep in mind when using these resources to select a barn for your equestrian riding lessons.

Community Resources and Guides

Your community Parks and Recreation publication can be an excellent place to start since they screen all of their participants prior to endorsing them. When riding horses, safety must come first, last and always. This is not a time for cutting corners or accepting less than the best. The riding habits you will develop initially will stay with you. It is far better to learn how to ride properly the first time rather than having to spend years trying to unlearn incorrect and unsafe riding habits.

Your local tack shop, 4H and FFA clubs can also provide you with the names of reputable trainers. The phone book can give you a large selection of names and phone numbers, but you will have to work harder to determine which of these barns offers the best instruction, the safest conditions, and the best value for your money.

Professional Resources and Guides

Horseback riding, horse shows, and horse breeding are big business. You can take advantage of the plethora of associations, organizations and publications available to help you select the best barn and trainer for your equestrian riding lessons. Many horse-related associations are breed specific. Thoroughbreds are the most popular horses used in English riding, although you will also find Arabians, Quarter Horses, Morgans, Friesians, Hanoverians, and several others. You can also find riding lesson information through regional organizations, veterinary associations, and equestrian magazines.

Using either community or professional resources and guides will help you select a number of possible trainers and barns to choose from. The next step in selecting the best trainer for your riding lessons is to compare what they have to offer and the price you will have to pay. Most important, you should go and look at the barns themselves and see the trainer in action. Again, safety is paramount. There are specific criteria you can use to help you find the very best trainer.

Making Your Choice

Once you have narrowed down your selection of barns and trainers, you must actually go to each barn before making your choice. Any barn that appears unsafe, unclean or chaotic should be avoided. Observe the trainer as they give lessons. Are they friendly, supportive and calm or are they agitated, critical and loud? Do they require you to wear an approved riding helmet, appropriate equestrian riding apparel, and horse riding boots? If not, leave immediately. Proper equestrian riding apparel, an authorized helmet, and sturdy horse riding boots are crucial to your safety.

Equestrian riding apparel consists of breeches that fit snuggly and a riding shirt that allows freedom of movement without risking getting snagged. Horse riding boots will protect your toes from heavy hooves and they will keep your foot in the proper stirrup position. Approved rising helmets are mandatory. There are plenty of resources for purchasing your equestrian riding apparel and horse riding boots. You can drive to your local tack shop or, for added convenience and a wider selection; you can make your purchases online through a reputable retailer.

Choose a trainer who will provide you with a safe and enjoyable opportunity to develop good basic skills and who requires you to wear the appropriate equestrian riding apparel, horse riding boots, and an authorized riding helmet for years of safe, enjoyable and productive riding.

Anne Coyle is a writer for The Equestrian Corner. They provide high quality equestrian riding apparel and horse riding boots that will ensure your equestrian riding lessons will be safe, productive and enjoyable.

Equestrian Style in Your Home

Your love for horses doesn't need stop at the barn. Horse people enjoy having decorative horse elements in the home. Whether you are a lifelong equestrian, an admirer of horse sport, or someone who loves the equestrian look, having equestrian style in your home adds character and tradition. How you bring equestrian elements together can make the difference in telling a story or having your items overlooked.

Equestrian style was popularized when Ralph Lauren hit the fashion world by storm. He made both nautical and equestrian styles livable for mainstream people. It became possible and affordable to have the sporting lifestyle look. And while many people took up stirrup pants and hacking jackets, decorating with equestrian style has been around for hundreds of years. Look no further than the English countryside. Whether you have acquired equestrian pieces from the barn, or you are just starting out, giving your home or space an equestrian estate feel is not difficult. As with any design, the key is to start with a plan that includes well-thought-out furniture placement and a good color scheme. Traditional furniture works best when designing an equestrian style space. Dark, substantial wood furniture with good quality upholstery or leather gives mind to the English countryside, where most equestrian trends originated. Steeped in custom and tradition, equestrian elements have changed little through the centuries. Garner ideas from books and magazines, or search the internet for ideas.

Once furniture placement has been established, anchor the space with a good rug. Vintage rugs protected fine wood floors from muddy hunting boots, numerous hounds, and country parties. These rugs were handmade and vegetable dyed. Today's production rugs lack some of the character of the older rugs, but can still lend the style and are always a smart choice to bring a space together.

Equestrians love art, and art that includes the horse is always a favorite. Some equestrian artists have stood out through the years, with George Stubbs being immensely popular during England's sporting days. His works are traditional, beautiful, and have color schemes that are easy with which to work. Reproductions of his paintings are available on the internet.

No equestrian space would be complete without horse tack, the equipment leather goods used in riding and training horses. Whether you choose stainless steel stirrups or bits, old horseshoes, or leather strap goods, these pieces strategically placed are key elements to bring your space to life. A favorite of ours is a silver mint julep cup used to hold pens or flowers. Stirrups make good bookends. Harness brasses can be framed or mounted cleverly over light plates. Snaffle bits can serve as window panel tie backs. Equestrian books are another design element that is readily available and brings authenticity to your space. These books are available as novels, training books, or picture books.

To add softness and comfort to your space, yet still maintain style, consider adding needlepoint or horse themed equestrian pillows. Throw pillows come in many styles and colors. Look for traditional fabrics and authentic embellishments like fox hunt buttons, harness brasses, or other pieces of horse equipment.

Bringing equestrian style to your home or space adds character. Horses have had a close relationship with man for most of human history. Only since the invention of the automobile have we been so distanced from him. Bring equestrian style to your home by using these design ideas, and bring horses into your decor.

Shannon McGlon works for Online Commerce Group (OCG, LLC) which operates outdoor living products on the internet. Additionally, she runs http://www.PikeRoadPillowCo.com which retails equestrian design elements for the home and barn.

The Horse Grooming Kit : Equestrian Supply

Apart from the horses clothing equestrians should also take care of their horses. After all, the performance of the horse has a major impact on the scores. No matter what sports the horse is going to participate he must be well prepared before the event. This entails not just proper but also grooming. Riders are not the only ones who should look their best but also the horse. There are many supplies out there for the horse. Riders have a wide array of choices for their horses.

One of the most important of these supplies is the grooming kit. This is an essential kit when grooming and preparing the horse. With it riders will be able to maintain their horse's coat in good condition. This will also be a good time for them to check for any injuries, scratches and bruises on the horse. Grooming will also massage the horse and promote circulation.

Horse care

The grooming kit is made up of different combs and brushes to keep the horse clean. Each of these combs and brushes has a different purpose when cleaning the horse.

These are some of the basic brushes and combs in a grooming kit:

Dandy brush
These brushes are used to remove dirt on the surface of your horse's coat. They are used in the less sensitive parts of the horse. This brush has long bristles.

Body Brush
These brushes can be either hard or soft depending on your need. They have leather back. It is used to remove grease and dusts from you're horse' coat. They can be used in the sensitive areas of your horse's body.

Metal curry comb
This is not used on the horse but is rather used to clean the body brush when grooming. It removes dust and dirt from the brush so that you can use it again on the horse.

Rubber Curry Comb
They remove mud and loose hair from the mane and tail of your horse.

Water Brush
You are going to use water when washing or dampening your horse's coat. This brush is used when applying water on your horse.

Mane comb
As the name suggests these are combs used on the main and tail of your horse. They come in plastic and metal. There are variations of these combs for different purposes. Short metal combs are used for pulling manes. Other special combs are used to cut the mane thinner.

Hoof pick
They are used for removing dirt and stones that are packed into your horse's hooves. Dirt and stones usually collect on the underside of your horse's hooves when you go riding or when he's out there in the field. The hoof pick can be easily lost under your grooming kit so it's advisable to type in a baline twine.

Cotton Sponge
Used for cleaning the eyes, nose and wounds of your horse.

Sweat scraper
Wipe away sweat from the horse or excessive water when washing.

Stale rubber
Used for doing the finishing touches on the horse. They are used for polishing the coat of the horse. Stake rubber or linen cloth can be used.

Grooming kit box
Last but not the least, is the kit box. It can be any container or bag with ample storage for the brushes. You can also use a canvas bag with a drawstring.

Whitworth prof studies horseback riding as therapy

By SARA LEAMING

The Spokesman-Review
SPOKANE, Wash. —

With his arms outstretched, 6-year-old Tyson Thompson concentrated Sunday on keeping his posture straight and his leg muscles strong as he balanced on the horse moving beneath him.

The boy looked miniature perched on the back of the 1,400-pound horse named April. Maintaining steadiness proved even more difficult without a saddle, especially for Thompson, who has cerebral palsy.

"It makes him very aware of his body positions," said Ellie Giffin, Thompson's mother. Riding 18-year-old April, a breed of draft horse known as Shire and related to Clydesdales, is also the only physical therapy Thompson does in which his symptoms don't regress, Giffin said.

Known as hippotherapy stemming from the Greek word "hippos" for horse the treatment uses the multidimensional movements of a horse to treat patients who suffer from muscle or movement dysfunction. It's said to improve balance, posture, mobility and function.

"They can't re-create this in a clinic," Giffin said.

Giffin and her family also are fortunate to be related to Mike and Teri Sardinia. The Sardinias own the Clayton farm and the horse used in Thompson's therapy. The boy has been working with the horses since he was 3 years old.

Mike Sardinia is a biology professor at Whitworth University. Two years ago, two of his former students did their research project for his animal physiology course on the effects of hippotherapy; Thompson served as their test subject. This year, undergraduate biology majors David Ellis and Aly Shaffer, both 22, took the research a step further to determine how long Thompson's muscles benefited from each session.

The students measured the electromyograms in the boy's muscles before, and then each day after each therapy session for a week. The electromyogram is a graphic representation of the electrical activity that occurs when muscles contract.

For most people, those muscles are in sync when they are contracting in the limbs. But for people with cerebral palsy, the electromyograms are out of sync for the same muscles, causing patients to be off-balance.

"The idea of being on a horse is that it moves in a very synchronized way; he has to use his muscles in sync with the horse," Ellis said.

Ellis and Shaffer recently presented their research at the Spokane Intercollegiate Research Conference. Their research determined that Thompson had better muscle coordination and balance for at least two days following his sessions with horses.

Mike Sardinia said he hopes the research will be helpful in establishing more local hippotherapy options. When Giffin went looking for help, there were only two similar programs in the Spokane area, and each had a long waiting list.

In addition, Sardinia said there is much anecdotal evidence to support the benefits of hippotherapy but very little solid research to prove it works.

"We want to spread this around to anybody that is doing this kind of work," he said.

Already the need is growing.

On Saturday, a newly formed group in Spokane called Free Rein held an event to raise money for similar therapy.

Founded last summer, Free Rein allows 22 children and adults with physical, mental and emotional disabilities to ride and connect with horses. The nonprofit wants the program to grow and eventually serve 100 riders a year.

But the therapy is costly, and often patients are living on limited incomes and have higher living expenses because of a disability.

The Sardinias said they have only worked with Thompson so far but in the future would consider taking on more riders.

Giffin said that without the therapy, her son's progress would have been slower. He no longer wears leg braces.

"The biggest thing is that he has developed strength in his torso," Giffin said. "He couldn't sit before without help."

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Information from: The Spokesman-Review, http://www.spokesmanreview.comPosted byJ. Foleyat10:59 PM

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Equestrian Careers: How to Find the Right Path for You

There are just people who have fallen in love with horses. They may be both young and old, man or woman. It is not a new scenario to see a kid who asks for a pony as a birthday gift. For them, it feels like heaven just to spend some time with their beloved animals. There are even instances when they can't spend a day without having to visit their pet's stable. No wonder, many individuals have turned out to be equestrians.

If you live your day breathing horses, sleeping with them, eating with them, going for adventures with them, then perhaps you happen to realize that you can start off a career with it. Equestrian careers are common not only in the United States but in many other countries as well. You can always land yourself in a useful career in the horse industry and get on with a better way of spending your daily routines.

In the past years, surveys have showed that there are nearly seven million horses in the United States alone and the more it gives rewarding opportunities for the horse lovers. The American Horse Council further points out that it supports an estimated 1.4 million full time jobs for the equestrians. The horse industry features a wide spectrum of equestrian careers ranging from the hands-on tasks of large animal veterinarian up to those that include becoming a supplement and feeds distributor. Other equestrian careers are research, breeding, showing, education, health, recreation, product manufacturing, and a lot other service industries. Sure enough, you would find something that would be perfectly appropriate for you.

So, how can you possibly gauge the rightful opportunity that is most apt for you as an equestrian? Before you practically send out your resumes to the horse industry related offices, you first need to seek out the opportunity or career that would suit you best. You need time to attend to this. As much as you want to be employed as a veterinarian or technician, no one in his right state of mind would surely hire you if you can't show the documents that would serve as your credentials. Hence, take time to research on the various equestrian careers, then find out the requirements for those and then work on how you would be able to earn the credentials. Trainings and certificates are most likely needed.

Here are some of the questions that you would have to ask yourself.

What do you really want for a career involving horses? What are you most fond of doing? Are you much in contact with these animals? Or would you rather go for a job that includes working in some supporting field? Here are the pros and cons for them.

The supporting field role can make you earn more because the job is more stable, requires you to report in the regular hours, and of course, you have the benefits to be enjoyed. Meanwhile, a hands-on equestrian career can provide you with more flexible and greater chances of getting in full contact with your favored animals.

What degree of education can you boast of? You would need trainings and the right education in order to get admitted into the horse industry careers. If you prefer to be a barn manager, a horse trainer, a riding instructor, or perhaps a public relations expert, a vet, or a writer, then seek out the required trainings or degrees for them.

It is important that you know your goals especially when you are eyeing for an equestrian career. If you keep in focus, then you'll be successful in the end.

Article Written By J. FoleyPosted byJ. Foleyat1:11 PM

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Helmets mandatory for young horse riders

wptv.com
Contributor: WPTV staff
Last Update: 5:41 pm

LOXAHATCHEE, FL – For the Hornstein family watching a group of horseback riders with helmets brings some comfort. A new law, named in their daughter’s memory, will soon require helmets for kids riding horses.

Their daughter, Nicole, did not have one on when she was thrown from a horse and killed.

Gary Hornstein, Nicole’s father, says,”There's no margin for error. Nicole did not have a second chance. It happened once and it was horrific."

Motivated by their pain, the Hornsteins made it their mission to mandate helmets for kids.

"It had to be done no questions asked,” says Gary Hornstein.

When Nicole died three years ago, she was riding a friend’s horse down the road. The horse stumbled and Nicole hit the pavement. She was just twelve year old.

For the past two years, her family has been relentless in their pursuit of preventing a similar tragedy.

Gary Hornstein says, "She went through things no man woman or child should go for and all for a helmet."

Monday their efforts were realized. Governor Charlie Crist came to Loxahatchee to sign a new law in Nicole’s name.

Governor Charlie Crist says, "I give all the credit to the family."

“Nicole’s Law” requires children under the age of sixteen to wear a helmet while horseback riding on a public road. The law goes into effect October first. If a child is not wearing a helmet, the person responsible faces a 500 dollar fine.

Monique Hornstein, Nicole’s mother, says, "We're just grateful, grateful. We love her every day."Posted byJ. Foleyat10:22 PM

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Disabled Find Freedom on Horseback

By Susan Logue
Clifton, Virginia
16 June 2009

Laura Gregg, 13, can't talk or see. She spends most of her life in a wheelchair, but once a week she leaves the chair to sit atop a horse. With one volunteer leading the horse and one on either side to make sure she doesn't fall, she slowly moves around the riding ring.
"It is Laura's opportunity, one day a week, to feel what it is to walk again," says her mother. Karen Gregg has been bringing her daughter here since she was six years old and says she notices a change in Laura after a session. "Her muscles are usually either extremely tight or extremely loose. A child with cerebral palsy, as Laura is, can't control this." Greg says that riding the horse helps relax Laura's muscles that are tight and strengthens muscles that need to be strengthened.

Laura is one of 85 students with special needs who participate once a week in the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program, which has been offering these classes since 1980.

Riders with different challenges say they benefit

"We have some people who have physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy," says Executive Director Breeana Bornhorst. "We have some people who have cognitive or intellectual disabilities, for example, autism, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, Down Syndrome, any number of different challenges."

Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program is one of more than 700 such programs in the U.S. It has been offering these classes since 1980.

Samuel Selnick, 16, has Down Syndrome. "Like most people with Down Syndrome, he tends to have low muscle tone, says his mother, Barbara. "Riding benefits him, because you work on your core muscles." Selnick says Samuel's posture has definitely improved over the four years she has been bringing him here.

There are more than 700 therapeutic riding programs in the United States alone. Bornhorst says there is a need for more research to quantify the benefits of therapeutic riding that she sees every day. Parents and students are already convinced that these sessions make a difference.

Jennifer Hendrick says horses make the best physical therapists
Jennifer Hendrick, 19, suffered four massive strokes that left her paralyzed on one side. Before taking sessions here, she went through more traditional physical therapy. "I was stable enough to get around on my own, but this has doubled the strengthening, doubled the work and doubled the fun."

And it's that sense of fun - not just the physical improvement - that keeps Hendrick and the others returning to the riding ring week after week to work with their four legged therapists.
Posted byJ. Foleyat11:55 PM

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Horse Blankets

Equestrians engage into highly competitive sports. Although horse back riding is mostly reserved for the rich, people of all ages can try it. It takes a lot of work and discipline to be able to train a horse. It also takes a lot of patience to ride them. Equestrian sports have been included in the Olympics. Although the rider is as equally important as its horse, the chances of winning in the competition do not lie on them. Like racing cars it's important that horses are in their maximum health.

There are many products out there that could help the horse. They are available online. One of the most important products is the horse blanket. They can also be called rugs or sheets.

Does my horse need a blanket?

Horse blankets are important to protect horses from nature's elements. Like us they also need to be protected from the rain, cold, wind and heat from the sun. Horses that are left without blankets during the season have more chances of getting ill. 

There are different types of horse blankets, rugs or sheets. Their use will depend on what your horse needs.

Coolers and anti-sweat rugs
As the name suggests they prevent the horse from getting chills when they cool down after exercise. These rugs are breathable with mesh. The size of the mesh can very depending on the horse. Fine mesh helps to keep off flies.

Fly sheet or rug
This protects the horse from insects and flies during summer when they are grazing. The sheet is also available with additional attachments such as neck covers, bonnets and fly masks. These additional products provide complete protection from the horse.

Summer sheet
It's a variation of the horse which is much lighter. They are used to protect horses from dusts and flies during summer. They can also be used as travel rugs.

Under blankets or liners
They are placed on the horse as a protection from friction from stable rugs. They are placed underneath stable rugs. They come in different materials. The traditional under blanket is made of wool. Modern under blankets are made of lightweight materials and are considered as under rugs.

Stable rugs
They are used to protect the horse from the cold during winter while being stabled. They come in varying, colors, thickness and weights. Different thickness and weights offer varying degrees of warmth. They are also breathable which enables the horse's sweat to evaporate. Under blanket can also be placed underneath the stable rug to add warmth. This is usually needed when the horse is stabled day and night.
Turnout rug

They are used to keep the horses clean when they are out in the field. They ca also provide warmth during the winter. Turnout rugs should be long enough to cover the horse's belly. The front should also have a good overlap. These rugs usually have pleats on the shoulders to enable movement. These rugs also come in different thickness and weights. Turnout rugs vary from light weight with no filling for the summer, and heavy weight with filling for the winter.

No matter which rug you use it's important to keep your horse well protected. Like a well oiled machine they perform best when taken cared off. Horses are not like cars that can be repaired again and again. A horse's health is as vital as the rider's.

Equestrian Jewelry

Horse lovers and riding enthusiasts show their love for horses in many ways. Some like to wear equestrian outfits. Others use equestrian home décor in their houses. Still others like to use equestrian jewelry.

The beauty of a horse's form and elegance of its stand and gait make it the perfect addition to any jewelry. That is why more and more jewelry makers have horse design collections. From trinkets to large diamond-stud pendants, these pieces of jewelry can match any wardrobe and can be worn in any occasion.

This type of bling may be made of gold, white gold, sterling silver or platinum. While some are purely metallic pieces, others add some stones or gems like diamonds, pearls, turquoises, sapphires, rubies, and crystals. Of less costly materials include beads and semi-precious stones.

As for the jewelry types, the most common is the necklace. Horse designs are usually in the pendant. While you may see a horse in extended trot, there are more pendants that have a horse head or Equus design. The head is sometimes framed with a round or square frame, and may be plain or studded. Other pendant designs are horse shoe, bit, stirrup, hunting horn, crop and boot, dressage horse, saddle, hoof pick, golden boot, blue ribbon, and many others. Some charms can also be used as pendants, such as bell boot, breed and bucket charms. Heart-shaped diamond lockets with horse designs are also used as pendants sometimes. Chain can be cable or plain.

Another jewelry type is the bracelet. Charms are used to embellish the chain. With slide or clip-on charms, you are able to mix and match the charms and bracelets that you have. Some common charm designs include heart horse, horse shoe, boot jack, paddock boot, blue ribbon and dressage hat. For the chain, it can be plain, or with designs such as stirrup, toggle, bit or cable.

Earrings are also among the favorite jewelry for women. Designs are similar as the pendants, as necklace and earring sets are commonly sold. Some like smaller stud earrings, while others prefer longer, dangling ones. Common designs are horse shoe and stirrups.

There are also horse rings available. Some designs include double horse head and nail. The good thing about rings is that it can be worn by both men and women. His and hers horse rings would make a nice engagement or wedding present.

There are also watches with horse designs available.

Horse designs are also available for brooches, barrettes, pins and cufflinks. While they are generally not considered jewelry, they also fall in this category because of the material used and its cost. Examples are square horse cufflinks and gold equestrian brooches. For pins, you may find saddle, hunting whip, hunting horn or heart-shaped horse designs. You can also find diamond-studded silver barrettes for the hair.

 You don't need to love horses in order to wear equestrian jewelry. You may not even like to wear jewelry at all. But with the many designs available, there is one that you'll surely grow to appreciate and love. So if you're thinking of spicing up your wardrobe or if you're running out of gift ideas for a friend or family member who loves horses, why not try horse jewelry. They're elegant, classy and never go out of style.

How To Brighten Up Any Room with Equestrian Home Décor

If you're thinking of giving your home or room a lift, then equestrian home décor is the solution. Horse décor is one of the most popular animal décor to grace our homes. Its versatility and beauty, not to mention its availability, makes you like to have the horse form in your room. Here are some ideas on how to decorate your home with horse décor.

If you feel that bigger pieces are overbearing, you can start with small accent pieces. It can be a small horse statuette on your study table, a Texas star wall clock, bookends with horse figures, or wall art with horse design. Smaller pieces are great for small spaces. You can also put up a large welcome sign or doormat with horse and cowboy design to set the tone or mood of the home.

Other types of horse décor are furniture accents like a country-themed drawer chest or armoire in deep color with horse design. This piece can serve as centerpiece of the room, or it can be placed in a corner for accent. A base horse figure can also serve as coffee table or side table.

This horse figure as base can also be used for lamps. Or you can have a beautiful horse scene in the shade. When lit, the shade gives really beautiful western colors. If you love to decorate your room with tea light candles and oils, you can find a horse oil lamp made of ceramic where oil can be burned to provide the scent that you want, or candle holders which are of horse design made from wrought iron.

You can also hang some horse art in the wall. Big or small, the size would depend on your preference and on the size of the room. If you want bigger horse designs, you can paint a mural on one wall or use wallpaper with horse designs.

Other accent pieces are horse-designed throws, rugs or throw pillows. These pieces can make any cabin-styled home interesting. For the room, you can also have a comforter, beddings and pillow cases with horse design. This is perfect for a horse-loving kid's room. Add a rocking horse, and your child may never want to go out of his room anymore.

Horse design pieces also blend well in country-style bathrooms. You can add a horse towel bar, tissue holder, shower curtain or rug with horse design to your bathroom. You can also place a few decorative tiles with horse design in your sink.

The kitchen can also be filled with horse décor. Horse figures in wrought iron may be used as plant or magazine holders. You can also have horse figures as cabinet door knobs or pulls.

One's fascination with horse décor can be because of different reasons. Surprisingly, some who incorporate horse décor are not even horse riders nor are they of western or country origin. They simply love the horse form.

There are many sources of equestrian home décor. Visit a home furnishings store in your locality. Or you can surf the web for pieces that you can purchase. With the many designs available, there is one to accentuate your home. Let the beauty and grace of our equine friends shine on. Find a piece to suit your home.

The Equestrian Helmet

Equestrian helmets may not be the biggest fashion sensation today, but there are some stories behind them. The distinctive style of the helmet, kept even in these days of modern materials and cutting-edge design, still reflects the tradition of conservatism proliferated by the early English riding headdress.

Unlike their predecessors, however, equestrian helmets of today serve a purpose beyond making people look good: safety. Not many people realize this, but competitive horse riding is a sport that can be fraught with danger. This is the reason why helmets of today are designed and standardized to make sure that a rider does not suffer serious cranial injuries when riding.

The helmet itself has an outer layer of plastic, which resists impact and prevents injuries in case of a fall. However, some helmets are designed with a cloth covering the shiny plastic in order to make the helmet look more attractive.

The brim of the helmet is designed to protect the eyes of the rider form the harsh glare of the sun. It also makes the helmet more attractive in terms of design. However, the brim is not made of the same materials as the "shell" of the helmet. Rather, it is designed to crumple during a fall. This makes the helmet safer in event a rider lands on the brim.

The inside of the helmet is designed with both comfort and safety in mind. Added padding makes sure that the helmet takes the brunt of the impact in case of a fall. The design is also very sport-specific: one of the reasons why an equestrian helmet is easily recognizable.

The design of the helmet makes sure that the whole head is protected. This is unlike bicycle or skating helmets, which focus the protection in the front and back of the head. It is also designed with the comfort of the rider in mind, with ventilation and positioning factored into the overall aesthetics.

There are many variations on the equestrian helmet based on the competition. Horseracing jockeys, for instance, wear helmets that are brimless and covered with a cloth matching the color scheme of their uniforms. Traditionalists frown upon the spreading use of brilliant colored helmets, but more and more people find the colors black, brown and gray boring.

There are also some varieties of equestrian helmets today that have been adapted to more "western" designs. These helmets, however, are yet to be embraced by riders in rodeos (where they are obviously more needed).

Standardization varies form country to country. However, a rider who joins a competition must have a standard helmet or that rider will not be allowed to compete. People who have performed a "conformity assessment" judge whether the helmet is up to standard

The conformity assessment is a series of tests that show how safe the helmet is. Some assessments involve various tests that simulate a rider falling from a horse and even getting kicked by a horse in the head.

Today, the equestrian helmet is not yet required for riders. However, they are becoming common practice. In fact, riding instructors today are required by insurance companies to make their students wear riding helmets in order to get an insurance policy. Some people may feel that equestrian helmets are uncomfortable and hot, but you should always remember that these helmets keep you safe.

How To Find the Best Equestrian Gifts

What's the perfect gift for a horse lover? That would have to be a horse. But if you do not have the finances, or if they already has one, then you buy the next best thing. With the many options available, there is one gift that would best suit any horse lover. Here are some equestrian gifts that you can find for your loved one.

For a young horse lover, you can get him a toy pony. You can also find a bag, tote or purse with horse design, a boot box where pens, markers or brushes can be placed, a shirt or heart-shaped jewelry box, also with horse design. There are also other toys like cards and puzzles. If they like to watch movies, give him a DVD of a nice horse movie.

Another gift idea is equestrian jewelry. You can find horseshoe rings, horse pendants or bracelets with horse trinkets in gold, silver or platinum. Or you can give some horse art, like paintings and posters. If you can paint, you can make a mural on a wall of their home.

For someone who likes to read, you can give subscriptions to equine magazines. There are also horse lover notebooks, journals and address books, office stationery, paper weight and book ends that you can find. If your loved one is seriously considering a career in horse riding, you can give DVDs and books on horsemanship. Tickets to a horse show or rodeo would also make great gifts.

There are also house items that you can get for the adult horse lover. You can find many blankets and throws with horse prints, pillowcases and pillows with horse designs, equestrian trellis designs in placemats, tablecloths and napkins, floor mats and rugs, horse racing table tops, home accents and décor, clocks, etched glassware, horse loving mugs, statues. Other house décor like nightlights, lamps and candle holders would also look beautiful in a horse lover's home.

For someone special, you can give a horse mailbox. Some manufacturers have different breeds, colors and poses available. So you can find a black palomino in a running pose, or a chestnut thoroughbred standing. These products even have some natural-looking mane and tail hair.

Another practical gift is a basket containing stuff for the horse like horse treats or toys that the horse can play with. Or you can give a bucket full of products for horse grooming like shampoo, hoof pick, body brush, shedder, saddle soap and others. This is ideal for a horse trainer or riding instructor. Ask help from a riding professional to know the best products to buy.

Of course, you can buy horse apparel and riding accessories like jackets, boots, hats and saddles.

If, despite all these gift ideas, you still can't decide on what to give, why not give gift cards or certificates to a specialty store. That way, they are sure to get something they really want.

There are many sources of equestrian gifts. You can find them in stores, museum gift shops and the internet. Also, if you really know the person, then you will know what gift they will love. So, the next time you would want to give a horse lover friend or family member a gift, you know what to buy and where to find it.

Equipment For Equestrian

Horse Walker as Equestrian Equipment

There are many people who show their fondness to their pets. Even so, a lot others fancy taking care of a horse for a pet. Ranches are common in various countries. Horses are most of the times used not only as favored pets but are treated for industrial and at times for commercial uses as well. As people search for some formal training with regards to rearing horses, they seek to become full fledged equestrians. Part of the training includes getting to know the appropriate equestrian equipment. Among of which are the horse walker and the horse tack.

Horse Walker for Equestrian Exercises

For a person who is definitely serious in getting on with bringing up horses and then its stabling, you must know how important the horse walkers can become. What benefits can be derived out of the horse walker? For one, the horse walker is a recognized equestrian equipment to saving time when exercising or practicing your horses and in the attempt to have them cool down after a long day's ride. Among the rest of the uses of a horse walker is for halter breaking and the other is for nursing back the health of the animal should any illness has occurred. The everyday use of a horse walker is certain to make the horse stronger and then more physically able. Furthermore, the utilization of a horse walker before any ride starts up would mean that the animal would be able to focus at the task that is on hand as soon as it is taken out of the stable and get to be tacked up. 

The Varieties of Horse Walkers

There are several kinds of horse walkers to choose from but the common denominator among them is that they have the same features. Many of these horse walker types are capable of handling four up to six horses at a given time. Likewise, there are horse walkers which are put up for sale in the market and are able to cater to all numbers of animals to be taken out for a ride.

The common models of the horse walkers include the flatly packed and readily assembled ones right there on the site. However, for some other specifications, there are those which may be bought along with roofs and fencing. Various controls and speeds are also included in the features. The horse walkers involve the forward and reverse motions too.

On the other hand, the higher end models of the horse walkers permit the taking off of the pressure from all parts of the body of the horse which are too prone to injury. Moreover, this equestrian equipment stops it from bucking especially in relatively open fields. When the animal gets any wound, it is important that it fully heals. With this equestrian equipment, such is possible. Be certain that the equestrian equipment has enough space that would allow the animal to relax especially during long rides.

Safety must be a top priority as always. Inquire on the safety precautions that come together with the purchase. You may also seek the help of the experts in horse rearing because they are knowledgeable enough in the field. Before you purchase any horse walker, be sure that it would work well both for you as the handler and for your horse.