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    [RC] Young riders - Alicia Mansuetti


    I think everyone is entitled to their own opinion on the subject of young riders because we are of course a free country.  I would like to make a statement for those of you reading who are considering let their young ones of any age ride endurance or pleasure.
     
    I teach pre-ballet and ballet ages 3 to 18 and have had not one 3,4,5 or 6 year old in ten years of teaching with 550plus students each year that can do what my 9, 10 and 11 year old girls do.  I am sure there are some exceptions somewhere in this world but I have not found them.  There bodies are not physically ready to do what the older girls do and the pediatrics' groups in our town support what I do.  They also support that 99.9% of the girls not ride until age seven and by ride I mean be able to use LEG and leg aides.  It can interfere with growth and development in many cases to push them to far to soon.  I agree with SERA and the 8 year requirement.  I plan to teach my daughter at age 7 and then IF she is ready let her go to a small ride at age 8 but not before we have completed a 25 mile test ride at home.  I suggest that if you want your youngster to ride find a qualified instructor and let them learn the proper basics before you put them on the trail and ask your pediatrician what they think!
     
    I also like the idea of making them do a certain number of 25's and then 50's before they step up in distance.  It might also be a good idea for a ride to maybe have a 10-20 mile ride for juniors when they are first starting out.  Just like dance you have to train your muscles and your heart to withstand the rigors of exercise especially with extreme sports.
     
    Alicia Mansuetti