Trying anything for the first time outside of your comfort zone can be nerve wracking; horseback riding is no different. Learning to ride takes time and patience to perfect. One step to take to advance your riding skills is to choose the right horse. For novice riders it is wise to choose a horse that is reliable, calm, and safe.
Horseback Riding At An Equestrian Farm
All horse breeds are unique. They have different builds, looks, strengths, and skills. Some are more suitable for first time riders than others. When learning to ride at an equestrian farm, the staff will expertly pair you with a horse that is compatible with your skillset.
4 Ideal Breeds For Novice Riders
The American Quarter Horse, American Paint Horse, Morgan Horse, and Tennessee Walking Horse are all breeds that exhibit the necessary qualities that make them ideal companions for first time riders.
American Quarter Horse
One of the most popular breeds of horses that can be found at an equestrian farm across the U.S. is the American Quarter Horse. Typically these horses appear chestnut in color, but can be brown, black, grey, and or red. They often have white markings on their face and below their knees. American Quarter Horses have short and muscular bodies with rugged bone structure.
This breed of horse exemplifies a gentle and friendly temperament perfect for first time riders. They’re loyal and emotionally intelligent in nature, allowing them to connect well with humans. The sensitivity that American Quarter Horses display is translated in their effort to ensure that riders are kept safe.
American Paint Horse
Another breed that is best suitable for novice riders is the American Paint Horse. These horses have unique coloring patterns on their coats. Their coats can be a combination of white and another color such as chestnut, brown, black, grey, etc. American Paint Horses have a sturdy, athletic, and muscular build.
The highly social nature of this breed enables them to bond well with riders. American Paint Horses exhibit a calm, easy-going attitude which allows them to be patient with novice riders.
Morgan Horse
The Morgan Horse is one of the most common breeds found at an equestrian farm. They are one of the earliest historically traced breeds. The color of their coats tends to be solid darker chestnut or black shades. These horses have athletic and sturdy builds. The bodies of this breed are small and compact.
Morgan Horses are innately forgiving creatures who aim to please their human companions. Their cooperative and friendly attitudes make them an ideal match for novice riders. These horses are highly intelligent and easy to train. They are steadfast and not easily spooked, making them a safer breed for inexperienced riders.
Tennessee Walking Horse
The Tennessee Walking Horse, also known as the Walking Horse, is another great choice of breed for first-time riders at an equestrian farm. Like the other three breeds previously mentioned, the Walking Horse has a muscular and sturdy body build, but they are tall in size. These horses can appear in several colors such as brown, black, chestnut, and other unique shades.
Walking Horses are highly intelligent, attentive, and have a calm and gentle disposition. These qualities are attractive for first-time riders. They have a smooth and stable gait, which allows riders to gain proper balance.
Want To Go Horseback Riding At An Equestrian Farm?
Baker Creek Farm is a top-rated equestrian farm in Northeast Ohio offering horseback riding lessons and programs for inexperienced riders. With over 50 years of experience in the equine industry, our team offers a diverse range of classes from learning how to ride to gain comprehensive knowledge on horses to training for horse shows. To inquire about our programs and riding opportunities, visit our website or call us at (440) 225-8697.