Equestrians come in all shapes, sizes, and skill levels, but one thing that truly unites them is the love and passion for riding horses. One term that may seem mysterious to novice riders is the "horse rider call." This article will demystify the concept and provide valuable insights to help riders communicate with their horses in an effective and enjoyable way.
Horse Rider Called Table of Contents
What is a Horse Rider Call?
A horse rider call, often simply referred to as a "call," is a vocal command used by riders to communicate with their horse. These commands can vary depending on the riding discipline, riding experience, and personal preferences between rider and horse.
Common Types of Horse Rider Calls
Rider calls usually fall into three main categories:
- Walk, Trot, and Canter - These are basic cues used to instruct the horse to change gaits. These calls can either come in the form of words, such as "walk" or "trot," or in a unique sound created by the rider, like a clicking noise or a light verbal encouragement.
- Directional Commands - To guide the horse in the desired direction, riders often use simple words or sounds, like "left" and "right," or they may rely on the natural language of leg aids and rein pressure.
- Transitions and Halts - Calls used to instruct the horse to slow down, halt, or transition between gaits are essential for maintaining control during the ride. Common words include "whoa" or "easy" and may be accompanied by a change in seat, leg, and hand pressure.
Discipline-Specific Rider Calls
In addition to general rider calls, equestrians in specific riding disciplines may have additional calls unique to their sport. For example:
- Dressage - While dressage riders typically utilize subtle aids and minimal verbal communication, specific dressage tests may require riders to count out loud, ensuring a proper rhythm and tempo in the movements.
- Show Jumping - Riders may need to call out the next jump number in a course and use specific commands to instruct the horse to collect, shorten, or lengthen their stride for optimal jumping success.
- Western Riding - Western disciplines, such as reining and cutting, may require specific calls to signal the horse to perform intricate maneuvers, like spins and sliding stops.
Horse Rider Called Example:
Imagine you're watching a dressage competition, and you hear a rider softly counting "one, two, three, one, two, three" as their horse performs a half-pass. This quiet verbal aid serves as an additional rhythm and tempo cue for the horse.
Alternatively, picture a show jumping rider who calls out "left" as they approach a jump, signaling their intent to turn that direction immediately after clearing the jump. This simple call helps to mentally prepare both rider and horse for the upcoming maneuver and ensures smooth execution.
Mastering the art of horse rider calls takes time, practice, and a strong understanding of your equine partner. As you continue your journey in horse riding, remember that communication is key. Don't be afraid to experiment with different calls and cues to discover what works best for you and your horse. If you enjoyed this article, please feel free to share it with fellow riders and check out other informative guides on How to Own a Horse. Happy riding!
