How Are Show Jumping Courses Designed? Complete Guide

Before a jump, riders often feel nervous, wondering, ‘Will I remember the course?’ or ‘Can I make the jumps properly?’ So, who actually designs these challenging courses, and how do they do it? In this article, we introduce the魅力 of show jumping and the role of course designers! What Makes Show Jumping Exciting? Dynamic Movements … Read more

Do Beginners Really Need Spurs? Essential Guide for Horse Riding Novices

As you progress in learning horseback riding, you’ll purchase various riding equipment suitable for your skill level, including spurs. However, honestly, you can control the horse’s leg aids without spurs. Moreover, because spurs are tools that can accelerate the horse’s movement and are somewhat advanced for beginners, some may hesitate to use them. After riding … Read more

Comprehensive Guide to Horse Riding Licenses and Rider Qualifications in Japan

Certifying Organizations for Horse Riding Licenses Japan Equestrian Federation The Japan Equestrian Federation offers the Riding Skills Certification Test, which verifies a rider’s technical ability. There are generally Grades 1 to 5. While British riding is dominant in Japan, the Federation also offers Western riding skill certifications, which is a unique feature. National Horse Riding … Read more

Horse-Drawn Carriage History and Modern Competitions

History of Carriages When did the history of carriages begin? In Europe, carriages were used by aristocrats, while in America, stagecoaches played a vital role during the westward expansion. Did you know about the origins of carriages in Japan? Here, we introduce the relatively unfamiliar history of carriages in Japan. Overseas Carriage History Carriages for … Read more

Western Horsemanship Derived from Cowboy Rides

Feeling like a Cowboy? What Is Western Riding? When you hear ‘horseback riding,’ what images come to mind? Perhaps a rider elegantly jumping over obstacles in a black jacket, like in the Olympics? Or maybe a cowboy from old Western movies? There are two main styles of horseback riding: British style, which you may have … Read more