If you’ve been thinking about learning how to ride or have been trying to get your children interested in horse riding but have been deterred by the cost or time commitment involved, then this article is for you. Riding lessons are a great way for anyone to get outside, experience the natural world, and build confidence in their abilities. Whether you want to ride your own horse or take lessons with another horse; learn how to ride in a group or on your own; choose between Western and English riding styles; or simply learn about horse anatomy and common horse ailments, we have you covered with everything you need to know about how to get started with horse riding lessons.
How to Get Started with Horse Riding Lessons
Whether you want to ride your own horse or take lessons with another horse; learn how to ride in a group or on your own; choose between Western and English riding styles; or simply learn about horse anatomy and common horse ailments, we have you covered with everything you need to know about how to get started with horse riding lessons. Before you make that first lesson appointment, be sure to do a few things beforehand so you’re fully prepared when the instructor meets you at your horse’s side.You’ll want to arrive early for your first lesson so that you have time to warm up and settle in. This will help you get the most out of your first lesson and prepare you for future ones. Here are a few things to do before your first lesson:
Decide between Western and English riding
The most common style of horse riding is Western, which is a combination of elements from the English and American Western traditions. The main difference between these styles is that Western riding is done on a smaller horse with a shorter rider. The American Western style is a more dynamic and energetic form of horseback riding that is often performed in a group and incorporates tricks and tricksy elements.In contrast, the English riding style is a more traditional, elegant approach to riding based on the techniques developed in the 16th century. It is commonly practiced in a lesson setting and is done at a walk, trot, and canter with a very slow pace.
Book your first lesson
Once you’ve decided what style of riding you want to start with, it’s time to book your first lesson. Start by researching your options in your local area. Horseback riding schools often offer a wide range of services, from general lesson options to specialized programs like dressage, show jumping, or hunting. If you’re not sure where to start, you can also try searching online for horse riding schools in your area.Once you’ve researched the different options and narrowed down the options that are best for you, it’s time to make that first booking. You can either visit the school in person or contact them by phone to set up an appointment.
Find a suitable instructor
Before your first lesson, it’s important to find the right instructor for your needs. This will help you get the most out of your riding experience and ensure that you get the most from your time and money. Here are some things to look for in an instructor:
Experience – Before you even consider booking a lesson, you’ll want to make sure that your instructor has enough experience to teach you what you need to know. The more experience the instructor has, the more they’ll be able to help you improve as a rider. Experience is one of the most important factors to consider when booking a lesson.
Horse handling skills – In addition to experience, it’s also important to look for an instructor who has excellent horse handling skills. These skills are what will help you learn how to control your horse, which is an essential part of getting the most out of every ride.
Teaching style – Another important factor to consider when booking a lesson is the instructor’s teaching style. The best instructors will have a variety of teaching styles and use a combination of those styles to best suit their students.
Don’t forget to bring your horse’s health records
Before your first lesson, it’s important to make sure that your horse is in good health and ready to ride. This will ensure that you have the best experience possible and get the most out of your time on the horse. To do this, you’ll want to bring your horse’s health records to the first lesson and discuss them with the instructor.These records will help the instructor determine the best way to get your horse ready for the lesson and what to expect from the ride. They will also help you understand what’s normal for your horse and what can help you keep them healthy and happy.
Conclusion
Whether you want to ride your own horse or take lessons with another horse; learn how to ride in a group or on your own; choose between Western and English riding styles; or simply learn about horse anatomy and common horse ailments, we have you covered with everything you need to know about how to get started with horse riding lessons. Before you make that first lesson appointment, be sure to do a few things beforehand so you’re fully prepared when the instructor meets you at your horse’s side.Finally, don’t forget to bring your horse’s health records to your first lesson and discuss them with the instructor. This is a great way to get the most out of your first lesson and ensure that your horse is in good health and ready to ride.