Tips for the First Time Horse Rider

Riding a horse for the first time is an exciting experience. However, horseback riding is a sport and requires rider preparation, even for your first ride. It will help to knowing what to expect, what to wear and how to respond to your horse to make your first time in the saddle less scary.

  1. Select an Instructor

    • Contact local riding instructors and ask about their experience with beginner riders and request references to students they have taught. Ask potential instructors about any certifications, such as one from the American Riding Instructors Association. Once you have found an instructor who suits your needs, schedule a meeting to get to know him and share any concerns and ask any questions you may have. Tell the instructor that this will be your first time on a horse and be honest about any fears or hesitations you have about riding.

    Proper Equipment

    • Wearing proper clothing and equipment helps keep you safe and comfortable when riding. Riders wear long pants to prevent chafing from the saddle. In addition, wear tights or long underwear for your first ride until you get accustomed to the saddle's friction. Boots with a heel will keep your feet protected from hooves while you're on the ground, and keep your feet in the stirrups when you're in the saddle. Always ride wearing a horseback riding helmet approved by ASTM International.

    Meet Your Horse

    • Spend a few minutes getting comfortable with the horse before you mount it. Approach the horse slowly from the side and speak to it to alert it to your presence. Move deliberately and avoid making sudden movements that may startle it. Avoid walking behind the horse, as it may kick, or walking up directly in front of it, as that is a blind spot. Remain calm when working with your horse since it takes many behavioral cues from you. Ask your instructor if you may feed the horse a small treat before or after your ride.

    In the Saddle

    • Once in the saddle, sit quietly and relax your body as much as possible while sitting up straight with your legs directly under you. Try to hold your hands still and steady on the reins unless asking your horse to turn or stop, and avoid swinging or kicking your horse suddenly with your legs. Leg movements signal most horses to move forward. Keep your head up with your eyes focused on where you are going to help you steer.