first/second lesson

So, i rode Rani for the first time a couple of weeks ago, when i first thought i would really like to find a share. Its tricky when you've been riding for a long time to know what to do when its not possible to have your own horse...I get a lot out of lessons, but it gets expensive to ride regulary, and its difficult to get out hacking. And i miss all the stuff that goes with having your own pony, the playing about, and the cuddles, and well, you know what i mean. I guess im also really used to the routine of having horses...turning up at a school to ride in a lesson, with the horse ready, then literally handed back to a groom straight after just isnt what i want.

He's quite an old boy, and an ex showjumper. He's also a total gent and a total sucker for someone getting his special scratchy spot!

notes from first couple of lessons-

• He's quite stiff, so give him lots of time to stretch out and warm up/down
• work on getting him in front of my leg, though he has a bit of a delayed reaction to leg aids-he does exactly what you ask, but it takes a few secs for his head to tell his legs what to do!!
• he likes to have a look at things, but doenst really do anything but have a bit of a look. he gets quite distracted by ponies in the field when you're in the school!
• sit up, on bum, shoulders back, losen through lower back, and stick my boobs out! hes a lot bigger than anything ive ridden before, and also a lot bouncier! because I've had a bit of a break from riding since ive been at Uni, i just need to work on getting riding fit and suppling up a bit.
• He's not likely to refuse a jump, known to do it from a crawl/standstill, but jumps with a much better shape with lots of impulsion.
• lots of transitions to get him listening and off my leg
• need to do some work without stirrups, funtimes!
• had a bit of a jump, nothing too big, need to watch he doesnt try to drift, and SIT UP after fence.