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The first step of British-style horsemanship is teaching children about horses and their habits, and letting children interact with the animals.

"Children should understand horses are timid," Zhang says.

"They shouldn't stand behind them. Standing in their blind spot will probably cause them to kick."

They also need to learn to feed them with open palms to prevent biting.

Zhang believes riding can enhance communication skills.

"They'll have to not only connect with coaches but also use body language to express themselves to the horses."

Riding also improves posture.

Ma's son recently wrote in his diary after his horse failed to run as fast as requested: "Did my horse not sleep well last night so it was tired today?"

Contact the writer at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn