Giddy up Your guide to horseback riding is here

There's nothing quite like the sound of a horse's gallop. Add to that the sight of its mane catching wind as its powerhouse body criss-crosses the boundary of strength and graceful agility. They are majestic creatures to behold--and if you've caught the equine bug, Horseback Riding For Dummies is all you need to get saddled up and started on your journey to riding into the sunset

Inside, riders at the beginner level will discover the differences between Western and English riding styles, get the knowledge to select the best stable and instructor, and so much more

• Choose the riding discipline that best suits your interests
• Find a qualified riding instructor
• Learn how to enter the competitive riding world
• Fit and care for the saddle, bridle, and other equipment

Once you've fallen for one of these beautiful animals, it's hard to hold your horses--and this guide is here to give you the skills and know-how to take that excitement to the ring

Audrey Pavia is the former editor of Horse Illustrated magazine and an award-winning writer of numerous articles on equine subjects. The author of 10 books about horses, she has also contributed to Horse & Rider, American Farriers Journal, and many other animal magazines.