How To Get Ready For Your First Lesson

Here are a few basics to know about horses:

• DO NOT stand behind a horse. A horse's vision is extensive (it can see to its hind quarter), but it cannot see anything directly behind itself. If a horse is scared, its instinct might be to kick backward. Always ensure you stay in sight of the horse or let it know you're there by gliding your hand across its side towards its back and then around. Always make your presence known and stay aware.

• DO NOT wrap the lead rope around your hand. Wrapping the rope around your hand can lead to dangerous situations and possible injury. Always hold the end, as a horse will always be stronger than you.

• ALWAYS ask before approaching someone else's horse. It is essential to get permission, as you never know what the horse or owner has going on.

• If a horse's ears are pinned back to its head, DO NOT approach them. That is a very clear sign that they are mad and might react by biting or kicking. If a horse is nervous, its eyes will get very wide. If its eyes are half-closed and they care chewing, they are comfortable and relaxed.

• AVOID surprises, including running, loud noises, foreign objects (plastic bags), etc. A horse's instinct is to run away. A spooked horse can lead to a potentially dangerous situation.

• Stay calm around horses. Utilizing clear commands and using your energy only when required helps guide the horse and allows you to stay safe by maintaining control.

• If you are feeding the horse a treat, keep the treat on an open palm and present it to the horse first by letting them sniff it.

• DO NOT wrap the lead rope around your hand. Wrapping the rope around your hand can lead to dangerous situations and possible injury. Always hold the end, as a horse will always be stronger than you.

• ALWAYS ask before approaching someone else's horse. It is essential to get permission, as you never know what the horse or owner has going on.
  

Here is what to wear:

• The most important is the type of shoes you wear. Generally, horse riding boots can cost as low as $50. If you get into riding and would like to continue, it is recommended you buy a pair. They are specifically made with a zipper on the top or outside of the shoe, so the horse is not irritated. Any boots with a small heel are good, as long as they are laced up or have the zipper on the outside. Otherwise, gym shoes or any whole, tight shoe will work. Just make sure you don't mind getting them dirty!

• Keep in mind that your posture impacts the way the horse moves. To help improve your posture and position while riding, wear tight-fitted clothes or vests to help the trainer see your movements. Avoid loose jackets and oversized hoodies, as those are too bulky and disable the trainer's view of your body language that controls the horse.

• The best riding pants would be breeches, specifically designed for riding. But initially, everyone tends to ride in leggings or jeans to be more comfortable. Wear pants that are fitted tight and not flared or loose on the bottoms. Keep in mind your legs control the horse's direction and speed, so don't wear anything that gets in the way of your thigh's contact with the horse.

• A helmet is REQUIRED when taking lessons with us. We have helmets we can provide for lessons, as there are specific kinds you need to wear. You cannot wear a bike helmet or anything else, as falling off a horse can greatly impact your head, so you need to be prepared. If you want to buy your own helmet, they can start as low as $30.

• Riding gloves help keep your hands safe from holding the reins, which can irritate your skin. During the winter, any gloves with flexibility and good grip are suitable. For the summer, thin riding gloves are recommended but not needed.
  

Here is what to expect:

• During your lesson, you will learn how to groom and tack up a horse, including cleaning its hooves, brushing them, and putting on a saddle and bridle. After a few lessons, you will be expected to know how to get the horse ready yourself. PLEASE come 15-30 minutes early to get your horse ready.

  • If your child is under TEN years old, they will not be expected to tack up themselves, but if they would like to learn how to, please get in touch with me ahead of time, and we can make time for it.

• Getting on a horse is called 'mounting.' Using a mounting block, you will learn how to lead a horse up and get in the saddle. The second you get on the horse, remain calm and let the trainer take over.

• You will learn how to sit correctly in a saddle and use your legs to control the horse's speed. Afterward, you will learn to trot the horse and properly move while at that speed. If you are ever scared or want to stop the horse, lean backward and yell "Woah" to make the horse slow down. This will be taught in the lesson as well.

• After a few lessons, you will be able to trot the horse around the arena by yourself, and with guidance, you can begin to learn how to control the horse. If you enjoy riding and want to continue learning, you will be taught to canter, the speed at which a horse runs and can jump from.

  • Once you begin jumping, you are considered an intermediate rider, and you will continue to gain knowledge and experience through jumping and possibly compete with others.