Horseback Riding Lessons for Beginners

As a beginning or returning rider, it is crucial to find the right barn to take lessons at. A good facility will have high safety standards, competent instructors, and an atmosphere which encourages both learning and having fun. Good instructors are often certified through organizations such as the Camp Horsemanship Association, the American Riding Instructors Association, or the British Horse Society.

You don't need to invest a lot of money in attire, though there some things you'll need. For safety, a boot with a heel is necessary. Most people think of jeans when they think of riding horses, but a more comfortable option is a pair of stretchy pants. Horse catalogs sell riding tights which have grippy knee patches, priced for less than you might spend on a pair of jeans. Clothes should be comfortable, yet form-fitting enough that the instructor can evaluate your position in the saddle. You will also want an "approved" helmet, which means it meets certain standards of protection for use in equestrian sports. Purchase one designed for horseback riding, as bicycle helmets don't offer adequate protection from a fall from a horse. Your helmet is the correct size when the brim rests about an inch above your eyebrows, and when you rock the helmet back and forth it moves your eyebrows up and down. Riding gloves are inexpensive and can be found in a variety of styles and colors, for as little as $5.

The best learning situation is one in which you have the opportunity to ride a variety of horses. You will certainly have favorites, but keep in mind that they all have something to teach you, so that your skills are more versatile. Your least favorite one may be the one who teaches you the most. Riding a variety of horses also gives you a good idea of what you want should you decide to puchase a horse of your own.

Your first lesson will include grooming and tacking up your horse. You will learn about the equipment and how to adjust it properly. Aside from learning how to groom and saddle the horse, this will give you the opportunity to learn how to handle a horse on the ground.

A good way to get the most from your riding lessons is to keep a journal of your rides. Keep track of who you rode, what you worked on, what has improved and what you want to work on. As you progress in your lessons, you'll enjoy looking back at earlier lessons to see how far you've come.

There are numerous excellent books that discuss visualization as it applies to riding. Through the power of visualization, you can practice anytime, no horse required. You are most likely replaying your last lesson in your head anyway, so take time to visualize what you would like to achieve with your riding.

Have fun! Though you may not be where you want to be yet in terms of skill, you are in the saddle making it happen rather than just dreaming of it. You really did "get back on the horse"!