Horses: A Guide to Your First Ride

Riding a horse for the first time can be an intimidating, even scary idea for the novice beginner. However, your first time on a horse should be a pleasurable and rewarding experience.

There are several things to consider if you have never ridden a horse or pony before. You should determine where you will take your ride. It is vital to start your riding career with a certified instructor. You can check around at local farms and stables for a certified instructor. Also, while you are there take a look at the different styles of riding. Western style and English style are the two primary styles of riding. Choose the one you like and find a good reputable certified instructor. Then get ready for your first ride in a confined area–either a corral or a riding pen.

Riding western is a little more relaxed, and is practiced most often in trail riding or pleasure riding. If you are not ready to make a commitment to a regular riding style, stick with Western pleasure. You will learn the basic commandments of how to ride and guide your horse, in a more calm and pleasurable style.

When you arrive for the initial lesson, be sure to familiarize yourself with the environment. This helps because if you are relaxed and comfortable, you’ll have a better experience. Horses identify their riders by scent. Let your horse get familiar with your scent before you attempt a mount. Hold your hand out with the palm up and keep your thumb tucked in so that it doesn’t tempt the horse by looking like a carrot. When you’re sure the horse is familiar with your scent, give it some neck pets.

Now you can prepare to mount your new equine friend. A good instructor will show you how to check to be sure your girth (the strap that goes under the horse’s belly), is securely fastened. There should be only room enough to insert two fingers under the girth.

Since this is your first time on a horse, use a mounting block to mount the horse (always on the left side!) Place your left foot in the left stirrup, and swing your right side over the horse, and place your right foot in the right stirrup. If your instructor is not holding the horse for you, make sure you have a grip on the reins while mounting.

A correct seat is crucial to the ease of your ride. You should sit up very straight in the saddle, but relax your legs, moving your bum with the movement of the horse. The length of the stirrups should be short enough for you to support yourself standing but long enough that your knees aren’t bent up. It is important to keep your heels pointed down.

This should be fun and not in the least uncomfortable. Become one with the horse. Relax and enjoy the ride.