Horseback riding has been popular for centuries for many reasons. Very early in history, horseback riding became a primary means of travel. In the very beginning, horses were used for fighting and hunting. Today, horseback riding is mostly used for fun and therapy (治疗). When choosing a horseback riding camp, you must first decide which style of riding you want to learn. American riding is generally related to cowboys (牛仔) and all kinds of competitions. American saddles(马鞍)were made to make sure that the rider feels comfortable and safe.
English riding, on the other hand, focuses on jumping, racing and horsemanship (马术). This style of riding gives the horse and the rider more freedom of movement, so the saddles don’t provide as much support and security as an American-style saddle does. If you are a new rider, you should think about going to an American riding camp.
Horseback riding is a great therapy for people of all ages with physical or mind disabilities. This type of therapy provides a fun environment in which people can practice new and old skills. The riders try to improve their skills. In addition, they can enjoy the feeling of being with other people in the camp.
If you’re looking for something a little different next summer, think of horseback riding camps, whether you own a horse or not. The experience and fun of horseback riding will stay in your memory forever.
1. At first, horses were mostly used ____________.
A. for fun B. for illness
C. for fighting and hunting D. for travelling and trading
2. According to the passage, in English-style horse riding, _______________.
A. riders focus on working with cowboys
B. the saddles provide as much support as American riding
C. more chances are provided to communicate with people than in American riding camps
D. both the rider and the horse have more freedom to move than in American riding
3. When riding a horse for the first time, _____________.
A. you should go to an English riding camp
B. an American riding camp is the better choice
C. you should make a good relation with the cowboy
D. you should choose a good saddle
4. The author’s purpose of writing this passage is to _____________.
A. tell us about a new horseback riding camp
B. tell something about horseback riding
C. advertise horseback riding programs
D. discuss the benefits and danger of horseback riding
5. How does the author develop the passage?
A. He compares the facts. B. He lists numbers.
C. He gives examples.
D. He argues both sides of the topic.