Those who love horse riding state that there is no better way to get exercise. Not only does horse-riding often take place in the great outdoors, but you also get to form a close bond with a beautiful animal. If you want to learn how to horseback ride, there are quite a few good schools in and around Wichita. Here are a few options. more Wichita Riding Academy Wichita Riding Academy was started in 1982 by Cheryl Manahan, who is passionate about both horse-riding and horses. She prides herself that every horse at this academy receives only the best attention and care by providing comfortable and well-kept facilities, as well as individualized training programs that cater to each horse's individual needs and strengths. Although Manahan mainly works with Morgan horses, she also has experience in training American Saddlebacks and Hackney Ponies. Manahan and her team have roughly 75 years of combined experience between them, and are thus more than equipped to train top equine athletes. Students of all ages and experience levels are welcome, and lessons cover all aspects of horsemanship, including basic equine anatomy, correct procedures for saddling and bridling, grooming, and, of course, riding. The school offers private lessons for those who desire a more personalized learning experience, as well as group lessons that normally consist of four to six riders. Week-long day camps are also available. Eagle View Equestrian Eagle View Equestrian, which is also in Wichita, provides spacious stalls, pasture boarding, twice-a-day feeding, as well as daily turn-outs for horses. Other amenities at this school include an indoor arena with new LED lighting, a jump course, a cross-country course, a well-lit outdoor area, a client lounge, Wi-Fi, and an on-site employee at all times. The school provides training for Huntseat and Western horses, and trainers will also break in any horses that still need to be taught to accommodate a rider. Lessons for riders are an hour long and consist of 30 to 50 minutes riding time, as well as horsemanship training that covers topics such as grooming and horse care. Eagle View Equestrian is involved in many local events and competitions throughout the year, and also hosts many clinics annually. C-Arrow Stables C-Arrow Stables, which was established in 1989 by the Coleman family, offers many different services that include boarding, riding lessons, and outfitting. This school, which is located in Maize, also offers the Scenic Prairie Land Ride that takes riders on an hour-long ride into the Kansas Prairie. Appropriate horses are available for riders of various experience levels, and all are welcome, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider. Riding lessons at C-Arrow Stables consist of the grooming, tacking, and putting away of the horse, as well as some time in the saddle. The school provides an enclosed barn with side-by-side stalls for horses, as well as other amenities that include a daily turnout, twice-daily feeds, and box fans in the summer. Horse-riding is not only a wonderful way to keep your body healthy, but also your mind, as it often takes place in the outdoors and also involves being in close proximity to horses. Do yourself a favor this year and take on the healthy hobby of horse riding. Image via Flickr by holisticmonkey
