Finding the right riding school

Bigger riding schools sometimes have viewing galleries or arena seating – perfect if you have family who want to watch you progress or if you want to keep an eye on your children while they learn.

Shiny happy horses

Horses come in all types and sizes and it’s important to learn to ride on one that suits you both in terms of size and temperament. The horses should look healthy and happy in their work and their saddles and bridles should be in good condition and look comfortable for the horse. A happy, healthy horse is a much easier horse to learn on.

 Choosing an Instructor

Finding the right instructor to suit your character is key to enjoying and progressing with your riding. If you are timid you may prefer to be nurtured gently whereas if you are confident and ambitious you might like to be pushed a little harder.

Booking the right lesson

You can choose from private or group lessons. The former may cost more but often it’s a great way to learn the ropes before you move on to the fun of group lessons.

What to wear for your first riding lesson

While you won’t want to be ‘all the gear and no idea’ on day one it’s important to dress for comfort and safety. Close fitting but stretchy trousers will help you to sit well in the saddle and smooth soled boots with small heels will help keep your feet secure in the stirrups. Your riding school should be able to lend you a properly fitting riding hat for the first few lessons. It won’t be long before you are hooked and then you can ask your instructor for advice on buying your own hat, boots and jodhpurs.

As Winston Churchill said: There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” After your first lesson, you’ll know why.