Grace, vigor and power - these are the distinguishing characteristics that make horses the magnificent creatures they are. To a large extent, our civilization was shaped by horses. Even the term horsepower is testimonial to this fact. Times have changed, horses are no longer a source of power and mobility, instead they are now primarily employed for entertainment and recreation. Althought riding a horse is fun, but for the inexperienced it can be fatal. The thrill of having such a huge and powerful animal at you command is an unrivalled one.

That being said, if you are inclined to experience horse riding, you need training and you have to get acquainted with your horse. Like most things powerful, riding a horse is dangerous and can even be fatal unless you know how to control your horse.

The most important thing to note is that a horse is an animal and has a mind of its own. Show some love and try to understand him, only then will you have control. Seasoned horse riders are able to precisely direct and maneuver their horses, using specific body movement and gestures. Controlling the actions of a horse using body movements is known as dressage.

Training a horse and getting to know it doesn't require magic, all you have to do follow a sequence of steps and use your common sense. However, there are certain basic training rules that must be followed, even Jane Savoie Happy Horse fame recommends these steps. The most important condition is that you should let the horse know who the master is. Show some love but be strict.

It's better if you start when your horse is young. Try not to encourage playfulness, you wouldn't want to be crushed to death by your fully grown horse, would you? An unruly horse is dangerous, discipline is a must and it comes with training.

Use of the lead rope is encouraged, it might seem cruel but it doesn't really hurt the horse as much. There is even a course - Jane Savoie Happy Horse - on horse training designed by the famed dressage expert Jane Savoie. This course is in much demand and includes excellent training guidelines.

In Janie Savoie a happy horse, she states, the secret to good horse riding is getting to know one's horse during the early years and commanding his respect. With the proper experience and training you'll soon be able to ride your horse with the grace and fluidity of pros.