Practicing outdoor riding and off-road countryside riding is an essential component of a rider’s basic training. In addition to maintaining a stable seat, riders need to familiarize themselves with the behavioral codes of riding in the wild. Just like visitors to the countryside, riders should always behave as gentle and friendly companions, not as enemies.
For riders with less experience, horses used for outdoor and off-road riding must get sufficient daily exercise and become accustomed to road traffic; otherwise, potential risks may increase. One way to reduce tension is to ride for a while in the training arena before setting out, then tighten the girth further. Riders should wear a proper, sturdy safety helmet, safe tack, and appropriate footwear (riding boots or Jodhpur boots). For safety reasons, the correctness, fit, and suitability of the saddle and gear should be checked before every ride. Inexperienced riders should never go out riding alone; they must always be accompanied by an experienced rider or appropriately qualified staff. On concrete or asphalt roads, riders should maintain a walk to avoid injuring the horse’s hooves and to prevent slipping.
Not all riders are fortunate enough to have off-road areas available right outside their riding arenas, without frequent road traffic. It is up to each rider to pay attention to minimizing the dangers and risks associated with riding in the wild.
Riders should be careful about potential hoof injuries, so they should avoid ditches, riverbanks, footprints, or circular hoof tracks, as these can become quite soft after rain. The horse’s pace should be adjusted according to the environment and conditions. Pedestrians, cyclists, other riders, and motorcyclists should all be passed at a walk.