by Robin Steckley

Horseback riding is a great alternative to fitness programs according to Gillian Angus-Traill, who learned to ride in the English style as a child in Scotland.

English riding involves the traditions and equipment of the European military, while Western riding developed according to the needs of cowboys.  English riders hold a rein in each hand, post the trot and cue and control their horse at different speeds depending on the gait.

If you have ever sat on a trotting horse you may have found the experience very uncomfortable, but posting – or rising from the seat at every other stride of the horse’s forelegs – smoothes the jolts. Western riders learn to hold their reins in one hand and sit the trot in a saddle designed to distribute the rider’s weight more evenly over the horse’s back, because traditionally riders had to be comfortable for long hours over rough terrain.

Gillian competed for Aberdeen University in dressage and jumping. Dressage is where you follow a controlled pattern with your horse that includes walking, trotting and cantering. After graduating, she immigrated to Canada and quickly sought out a place to ride, which led her to the University of Toronto Stables on Old Kingston Road. When she moved to Stouffville, she stopped riding for a short time until after the birth of her daughter, Jennifer.

As an infant, Jennifer needed physiotherapy to address concerns about the development of her muscle and core strength. Doctors recommended riding, so at 18 months, Gillian’s little girl was placed on a horse. Alone.  Children this young ride with walkers on each side and a lead controlling the horse. Jennifer’s therapy lasted three years. Today she is a healthy young lady who, like her mom, loves horses.

During Jennifer’s horseback therapy, Gillian volunteered to exercise the horses used in the program, allowing her to give back to the stable that was helping her daughter and do something she loved. Four years ago she began taking lessons from Barbara Malcolm at Churchill Chimes. “It is important even for seasoned riders to take lessons and have a coach,” explained Gillian. “Each horse is different and therefore needs to be ridden differently. In addition, your coach keeps you from developing bad habits.”  And bad habits can be dangerous.

She also loves the social aspect of riding and rides regularly with five other women. Some, like Gillian, have ridden since childhood, but others are recent recruits. “You just need a little courage when you’re older,” she noted.

Gillian has also acquired a new friend,  Jaxson, her five-year-old Belgian quarter horse, who has a great temperament. Gillian and Jaxson go on camping trips designed for riders, enter gymkhanas, and trail ride as often as Gillian can afford the time. Jaxson is more than a horse to be ridden; he is a pet who is loved and cherished.

“No matter what the stress of the day, when I drive through the gates towards the barn everything is left behind. I feel invigorated by the fresh air and smell of horses,” said Gillian with a smile.

I confess that while I have great endurance, I am short on courage. So I will stay on the roads with my running shoes but I encourage you, like Gillian, to find your passion!

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