Equestrian Sports and Horseback Riding Lessons for Teenagers

Most girls go through a "horse crazy" stage. It has been a growing enthusiasm with young girls for the last fifty years, and the trend does not seem to be slowing down. Theories abound as to why this seems to affect girls more than boys, but it is a well-known theme no matter where you live. Parents all over the world are hearing, "Mommy! Daddy! Please buy me my very own horse!" I know because I said it myself.

Parents cringe at the very thought of buying a horse. They can't even remember to feed the dog; how can they possibly hope to care for a 1500 pound animal? There are stalls to clean, feed to be mixed, veterinarian bills to pay, and farriers to locate. Horses need yearly vaccinations and health exams just like other animals, and they need constant, daily attention. For a family who isn't "horsey" to begin with, the thought is overwhelming.

There is a solution, however, and most parents take this route in order to save money.

When I was eight, I begged my parents to give me horseback riding lessons. I wanted nothing more than to spend one day a week atop a beautiful horse, learning how to ride and care for these amazing animals. Finally, on my ninth birthday, my parents agreed to sign me up for lessons, and I couldn't have been more ecstatic.

Many of the girls and boys who begin horseback riding lessons lose their enthusiasm after a year or two. They become interested in boys, makeup, and going out with friends, and no longer have time for their four-legged counterparts. I was one of the small percentage of kids who stuck with it through my teen and college years, and I think my parents are relieved at the fact.