Beginner Horse and Pony Riding Lessons
What will I learn at my first horse riding lesson?
What equipment will I need at my first horse riding lesson?
Buying horse riding equipment for children?
Beginner horse riding terms?
How much should horse riding lessons cost?
First Horse or Pony Riding Lesson
At your first horse or pony riding lesson the riding instructor will explain basic elements about the equipment and the horse. Finding the proper horse or pony will be the first import step. Make sure the instructor chooses a pony that is well mannered. Before mounting onto the pony or horse, the riding instructor will explain different body parts of the horse. This is a good time to get to know the horse and become friends. Next, the student will learn how get on the pony or horse. The instructor will explain how to tighten the girth, about the stirrups, how to mount and dismount. Learning how to hold the reins and sit proper will most likely will be one of the last lessons for the day.
Tip- If there is enough time you many learn aids including how to slow down, speed up, stop and turn.
Horse Riding Equipment
You don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive equipment for your first horse riding lesson.
Horse Riding Hat/Helmet
The riding hat/helmet is the most import riding gear. The helmet should meet the latest approved safety standards. . Many schools rent or lend helmet but it is better to have a properly fitted helmet of your own. Tip- The hat must fit correctly to give optimal protection. Make sure that the straps are fastened tightly so that the helmet doesn’t move and that the helmet fits well on the head.
International Air-Lite Helmet Black
HELMET USSEPA
Horse Riding Boots
The boots should have a heel to prevent from slipping. Sneaker shouldn’t be worn because they may slide through the stirrups. Long rubber boot are also good.
Ladies TuffRider Laced Barn Boots
Boot & Helmet Carrier
Men's TuffRider Zip Paddock Boots
Adult Argyle Knee High Riding Socks
Kids Synthetic Front Zip Paddock Boots
CADETT RUBBER RIDING BOOT-LADIES
Gloves
Proper riding gloves will be made from nylon, cotton or wool. They are helpful because they help to grip the reins and protect the hands.
SSG Winter Gripper Riding Gloves
Clothes
Beginner may wear fitted jodhpur pant or jeans. Jodpur may have extra padding on the inside making a more comfortable ride. Leather chaps are good for intermediate riders and for everyday use. Tack shops or saddlery shop will have these in stock.
Kids Comfort Country Pullon Breeches
Ladies - Comfort Country "Pull On" Breech
Kids Classic Pullon Riding "Jodhpurs"
Ladies Comfort Competition "Full Seat Pull On" Riding Breeches
Choker
A collar shirt worn by women during hunter/jumper competitions
Waterproof
A riding coat or a slicker will help keep you dry.
Beginner Horse Riding Terms
Aid
A aid is a signal the rider uses with the horse that causes the horse to perform a task. Aid come in many forms including voice hands, seat, and legs. Artifical aids include whip and spurs
Leather Grip Nylon Dressage Whip
Ladies Comfort Competition "Full Seat Pull On" Riding Breeches
Contact
The amount of pressure that is applied to the horses’ mouth through the rein
Complete Horse Riding Manual
Location and Choosing the Right Riding School-
Contact riding organizations including the American Horse Show Association and your State’s Hunter-Jumper Association to make sure that the riding schools are meeting proper standards. A good school will have the yard and track room clean and tidy. The stable will be neat and roomy. The pastures should be spacious. A proper fence should be present to keep the horses and people safe. Check that the manure heap is kept away from the stable. The ponies and horses should look clean and alert. They should be well fed.
Tip- Check the feet of the horses and see if they are in good condition. There shouldn’t be sores on the feet. All the riders should be wearing helmets that are up to date. Take time to watch a lesson to see if the instructor is paying attention to the student and the horse. The student should look like they are having fun.
Tip-Safety equipment including first aid kit should be present.
Cost-
There are two choices private riding lessons and class riding lessons. Class lessons are less expensive and many find it to be more fun because you have other to enjoy the lesson with. At an individual, it will be more expensive however, you will receive more personal attention. The riding instructor will start off by leading your child until they understand the signals and feel comfortable on the pony. Tip- Check the instructor spotlight on the top right handside of this page instructors and instruction schools. |
