If you’re familiar with archery but you want to step it up a notch and try something new and challenging, you could look into mounted archery as something different to add to your repertoire. Archery on horseback is an ancient and skilful art that requires a lot of practice and dedication since you’ll need to become the master of not only the bow but the horse as well. Horseback archers need to keep both hands on their bow which leaves the horses reigns untouched, so understanding your horse is a key step in becoming a pro at this sport. We’d recommend practising horseback riding on its own for at least a few months before combining the two sports. Here are a few key things you’ll need to know if you’d like to try it out.
Gear and Equipment
Getting into horseback riding will come with an entirely new set of terminology and rules to learn and some gear to invest in – but that’s all part of the fun, right? Depending on where you’re riding and what gear is provided for you, as well as how serious you are about investing in the sport, you might want to grab some things like bridles and reigns, riding crops and grooming equipment, especially if you’re looking to own a horse. You’ll definitely need some good riding boots and gloves, as well as some appropriate pants and shirts for your riding lessons – but a comfortable pair of jeans will usually do.
Safety First
Although archery has its own safety regulations you’re probably familiar with, those of horse riding are entirely different and you’ll need to combine the two if you. Investing in the proper safety gear for getting on a horse is an important first step. A good quality helmet is the most important consideration to make, as this will protect your head if you end up in a fall – which isn’t entirely uncommon in horseback riding. Your riding boots (which were previously discussed) will be important to protect your feet. You’ll also want to invest in a safety vest to soften the blow if you do end up in a sticky situation.
Next, you’ll need to consider some safety precautions such as learning how to safely approach and lead a horse and then mount it. As a beginner, this will usually be addressed in your first lessons. Keep in mind that it’s important for both you and the horse to feel comfortable and safe to avoid any potential mishaps.
Get Clued Up
Before you even start horse riding lessons, you might want to delve into some research and familiarise yourself with some of the basic information and terminology. Watch some videos online and try to perhaps talk to a friend or acquaintance who has experience with horse riding to assess whether this is really a commitment you want to make. Learning horseback riding and eventually training to become a mounted archer will entail a lot of hard work and dedication but it will definitely be worth it if you have a passion for both sports!