Introduction new/older rider

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Midlifecrisis80

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Hi everyone! I was encouraged to introduce myself, so here I am. After many years of daydreaming about it, I've finally bucked up the courage to begin my journey as a horse rider (in my mid-forties!) Only previous experience with horses (apart from a few shows) is a few childhood holiday pony treks with my sister and then a riding experience day about 12 years ago with my then-girlfriend. Well, I got the bug right there, but as a guy, I felt a bit uncomfortable with the non-horsey spectators looking at me like I didn't belong, but also felt that the staff saw me as the reluctant 'plus one' and focused on my GF. So... As an older man with perhaps a slightly more-developed thick skin, I finally took the plunge and started with a solo double-lesson last week and I loved it more than I could ever imagine! My instructor was lovely and by the end had me trotting, steering and standing up in the saddle! I had my 2nd (technically 3rd) lesson this afternoon and it was equally wonderful (though my calfs cramped up afterwards after a lot more standing/lunging - or trying to!) Bit tired but very happy 😊 I've booked 3 more lessons (already bought jods, boots and hat, so atleast look the part this time!) I'm wondering why I ever felt so self-conscious and perturbed that it took me so many years to do this, but better late than never, I guess?

Side note: OMG jodhpurs are amazing! Jeans was a terrible mistake way back-when and I was so sore with all the chafing, but they are so comfortable and I haven't felt remotely sore
 
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Skib

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Midlifecrisis80 said:
Already bought jods, boots and hat, so at least look the part this time! I'm wondering why I ever felt so self-conscious and perturbed that it took me so many years to do this, but better late than never, I guess?
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My husband also started late, but loved it.
People do ride in Jeans, especially men. But you need to look at the seam on the inside leg. The Wrangler brand have some jeans designed for riding with a small smooth seam which doesnt rub when you ride in them. Riding Western on long trips, men in the USA suggest wearing women's nylon tights under the jeans to prevent rubbing.
 
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