A few weeks ago, I got a wild hair and posted this ad on our local version of Craig's List.
I honestly didn't expect much. I did get a couple of emails saying "did you try so and so?" and "call these people", but then I got one that said "I can help you." -- turns out it is someone I already knew but hadn't thought to approach, the barn is close to the apartment (too bad they don't have any stalls available!), and the big bonus kicker? I get to ride a friesian for my lessons! Definitely one to kick off of my bucket list!
To say I was nervous was an understatement when I rolled into my first session last Thursday. I kept telling my boyfriend how nervous I was but he couldn't seem to grasp WHY I would be nervous (this one rarely gets riled up about anything, God love him!) - afterall, I knew the people, I had been riding most of my life. It only makes sense, right?
Anyways... overall a wonderfully positive experience and I am looking forward to the next session this Thursday. It was painfully obvious within the first five or six minutes of riding how ridiculously out of shape I am these days -- but my instructor was understanding and helpful. If I think about it, the last time I even sat on Bronwyn was Christmas day, and I haven't put a serious ride on in at least 6 months.
I talked candidly about the issues I feel that I have (particularly majorly unbalanced on my right side, which the mare I rode was so sensitive to that I will have no choice but to work on this! Some of you may remember me binning it on my head to that side because of a combination of unbalanced + slipping, improperly fitted saddle.), and I feel like this is going to be good for me, and good for what I can do with Bronwyn. Already, I am thinking of different approaches to the things we do, and feeling a serious "bug" for riding... and I've only been once and was so sore I could hardly move for two days after. I will have to keep you all up to date!
I had my first lesson after 4 months off from riding and I was sore too!! I go to the gym at minimum 2 days a week BUT nothing works your inner thighs like riding a horse. My lesson was on Sunday, it's now wednesday, and I'm STILL a little sore! Pathetic! My next lesson is on Saturday and I CANT WAIT!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteLove this blog! Amanda, you are wise beyond your years. Keep it up. Would love to see more posts on training of the fat rider and the training and care of the fat horse. Many of us larger folk ride draft and draft crosses. When you "go big or go home" things are more difficult. Focusing on tips for selection of the best trainers, riding instructors, farriers,vets, tack, feed,etc, geared to the large size horse would be extra helpful to those of us venturing into the larger side of horse life for the first time. Advice on how to deal with snarky comments from the individuals at the barn who think the only type of horse worthy of attention is a thoroughbred and the only person who should be riding weighs 95 lbs is always welcome and appreciated, too!
ReplyDeleteYay! Sorry this comment is so late, but I am just catching up! Isn't it crazy how riding makes joints you didn't know exist achy or fatigues muscles in just a few seconds? I am so excited you are taking lessons! My best friend owns a Friesian Cross and he is amazing.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the great work!