9 1 

 Lecture VIII. 



WOMAKS RIDING. 



Although the records of equestrian sport are adorned -with the names 

 of famous horsewomen who are celebrated not only for their daring spir- 

 it in riding across country, but also for their knowledge of cultured 

 horsemanship and proficiency in artistic riding, the generality of wo- 

 men who ride through the parks and over the public highways for health 

 and exercise still need encouragement to study more deeply the elements 

 of this beautiful art, 



The natural grace, which is inborn to the representatives of the fair 

 sex, follows them into the side saddle and the praise and admiration 

 given them for the elegance of their seat and carriage on horseback, how- 

 ever well deserved, may lead many to believe that they have reached a 

 stage of proficiency which, though it may give to them comfort and en- 

 joyment, could, just then, be carried farther most successfully and make 

 them the complete master over their horses which, after all, is of vital 

 importance for their safety. 



Talent, of course, is of itself an invaluable and speedy promoter of 

 success; but talent alone without serious application to study and prac- 

 tice will not accomplish every thing and even those who are not by 

 nature endowed with the characteristics of a good horsewoman may 

 in time accomplish unlimited proficiency, by perseverance, and pa- 

 tience. 



The constitution, temperament and energy of individuals vary to 

 such an extent as to make it no easy task for the teacher to choose meth- 

 ods of instruction, and the mode of progressing with a pupil -with whom 

 he is not acquainted. 



Nervous, sensitive and impatient pupils are easily discouraged and 

 inclined to discontinue their efforts when, after a few lessons, they find 

 themselves unable to overcome a certain awkwardness, 



Their mind and physical efforts are concentrated upon their person- 

 al appearance; they are conscious of being observed and afraid of un- 

 favorable criticism although the latter may be entirely imaginary. 



Let the beginner tmderstand that the accomplishments in the field 

 of horsemanship are not to be mastered within any specified period of 

 time, and having the control of their own body to consider as well as 

 that of the horse, the only safe and certain road to success consists of 

 the gradual and systematic learning and understanding of every detail 

 concerning the seat and guidance. 



The most complete relaxation of body and mind is necessary to en- 

 able the beginner to continue the introductory lessons without over ex- 

 ertion exhaustion, and to give the master undivided attention. 



The balance of the body, the grip -with the legs and the manage- 

 ment of the reins are so entirely dependent upon the feeling of the horses 

 motion and action, and the harmony in the distribution of the riders 

 weight with the movements of the horse is so indispensable to lightness, 

 firmness, elegance and correctness of the seat, that they demand abso- 

 lute repose and ease as well as alertness and readiness for action. 



