When you’re considering buying your first horse, you might be wondering how long it will take to learn how to ride. The answer to this question might seem obvious, but it can vary depending on how much experience you already have in another equestrian discipline. If you’re coming from a different background, you may need to take a few lessons to get used to the different terminology and rules of engagement. Fortunately, even if you’ve never sat in a saddle before, you can start learning how to ride a horse as soon as you’ve signed up for your first lesson. Depending on your horse and the instructor, you may be able to ride your horse as soon as the first lesson begins. If so, you’ll probably only need a few hours to get the hang of it. If not, there’s a good chance you’ll have to spend another few hours to finish the first lesson before moving on to the next one. In any case, keep in mind that if you want to continue riding as a hobby, you’re advised to invest in a basic riding helmet for both your own safety and that of your horse. For most people, the cost of a helmet is worth the peace of mind it provides — especially if you intend to ride in public areas with other riders or lead your horse through difficult trail areas.
How to learn to ride a horse
There are several stages to learning how to ride a horse, and they all revolve around the same principal: Find a quiet place where you can relax and be in the moment without feeling nervous or pressured. If you’re feeling anxious, try to take a few deep breaths before you begin. Most people who want to learn how to ride a horse will feel nervous and excited at the same time — but there are things you can do to help yourself relax. First, make sure your horse is comfortable and relaxed, too. If you feel like your horse is overly excited about being ridden, try to take a break and let him or her cool off. It’s important to remember that your horse is just as nervous as you are, and if you’re feeling pressured or anxious, it could make the experience much more difficult for both of you.
Finding the right instructor
The first step in learning how to ride a horse is finding a qualified instructor. If you’re new to horseback riding, you’ll want to make sure that your instructor has experience working with beginners. You can find a list of horse trainers and instructors at your local riding center, or online at sites like the American Riding Instructor’s Association (ARIA). Most instructors offer a free initial consultation, which is a good way to learn more about them and see if their style of instruction is a good fit for your needs and expectations.
Taking your first lesson
When you arrive at the first lesson, your instructor will likely ask you a few questions to determine what experience you have with horseback riding. If you’re a beginner, it will help if you know the basics of riding before you arrive. You should know what you’re expected to wear and bring on your first ride — and make sure you have everything you need, like a helmet and a riding crop. You should also know how to properly groom your horse and clean his or her hooves. If you’re visiting a new riding center, you’ll likely be shown how to clean your horse’s hooves before the first ride, and you’ll have plenty of time to practice grooming at home before your first lesson.
Building confidence with your instructor
If your instructor asks you to walk and stand in the stirrups, don’t be afraid to ask why. You may be surprised at the different ways that instructors teach things like how to walk in a straight line and how to properly use your horse’s head. If you’re not sure what a certain term means, or why it’s important, don’t be afraid to ask your instructor to explain. Your instructor is there to help you learn how to ride a horse, but they also want you to feel comfortable enough to ask questions and express any concerns or fears you may have.
The importance of groundwork
Most horseback riding lessons begin with groundwork. Groundwork is the name given to the tasks that your horse must perform, such as walking in a straight line, cantering, and reining in. The goal of groundwork is to build your horse’s confidence and make him or her more accustomed to being ridden. Groundwork can be done indoors or outdoors, and it’s usually done on a short lead rope so that your horse can’t get too far ahead of you. Groundwork can be done in a variety of different ways, and it’s important that you choose the right exercises for your horse in order to build his or her confidence.
Bottom line
Learning how to ride a horse can be a great way to bond with your horse and build confidence. The sooner you begin your training, the easier it will be to learn how to ride. If you want to get started as soon as possible, you can always take a lesson, even if you’ve never ridden before. If you’re not ready to take a lesson, there are plenty of resources online that can teach you how to ride a horse from home. You can also talk to friends who have horses to learn more about your options.