Horseback riding has existed for centuries with a long history of the interrelationship between humans and horses. Almost every culture around the world has utilized horses at some point and these amazing animals continue to be our companions even today. Learning to ride for the first time can be intimidating, but the relationship you build with your horse will propel your love and appreciation for these animals. Riding lessons can cover a variety of topics and maneuvers, so what can you expect from local horse riding lessons? 

How to PrepareInstructor helping rider with footwear while on horse.

First and foremost, dress ready to ride! Make sure to choose the clothing you wear to your riding lessons according to the activities you’ll be doing. It’s not a good idea to wear jeans or other pant material that would be uncomfortable rubbing against your skin. Since you’ll be atop a moving animal, there will be a lot of friction from movement and it’s best to avoid clothing that might produce rashes or blisters. 

It’s also a good idea to wear longer sleeves to protect from small scratches and scrapes, should an accident occur. Most likely your local horse riding lessons will take place outside, and even with cloudy weather the sun can still burn our skin, so it’s better to avoid sleeveless shirts or tank tops

Make sure you also wear closed-toed, sturdy shoes. It’s necessary to have a good grip on the stirrups so there’s no slipping or sliding out of them. This is especially important for the control of your horse during the riding lesson.

Learning the Basics

At the beginning of your local horse riding lessons, your riding instructor will introduce you to your horse. Take a moment to truly connect with the horse you’ll be riding. You and the horse will both feel more comfortable if you take a few seconds to pet the horse and get familiarized. 

Your instructor will show and assist you while getting mounted on the horse safely and correctly. For children, the instructor will likely hold onto the reins, or a rope attached to the reins, to assist with control. Once you are mounted and comfortable, you’ll be shown the proper way to grip and hold the reins, along with how to balance yourself on the saddle. Also known as posting, you’ll practice your balance in regards to the motion of the horse. Your instructor will show you the correct way to balance yourself and how to prepare for when the horse moves. 

Once you practice and master the beginning steps, you’ll be ready to learn how to have the horse walk, turn, and stop. Local horse riding lessons will give you time to practice all these basics before moving on to more advanced techniques. 

Students practicing horse riding on a course.More Advanced Riding

After you’ve taken a few local horse riding lessons and you feel comfortable and confident with the basic riding skills, your instructor will introduce you to more advanced techniques that include having the horse move at a faster pace. Intermediate local horse riding lessons will build upon the basic riding skills you already have and combine techniques for a smoother ride. You’ll learn new ways to slow and stop the horse, such as a half-halt, as well as different transitions within the gait. 

Your instructor may also introduce you to different, simple pathways for the horse to take, such as a full circle and figure-eight. These movements will challenge your basic horse riding skills in order to accomplish these movements. This type of riding practice is beneficial for the horse as well, as they can practice their own coordination in response to your directions. 

Baker Creek Farm

Baker Creek Farm in Columbia Station, OH, offers local horse riding lessons for all skill levels, along with equestrian birthday parties and other programs. Visit our website or call (440) 225-8697 today!