How do I get into horse back riding?

Question

I'm 14, and today after my ice skating lessons, there was a horse show at the fairgrounds where the rink is, and I watched some people about my age riding horses and it looks like sooo much fun! My parents are super supportive and I was wondering like how should I find a good stable and what sort of things should I wear, what sort of lessons I should take, etc...

Answer 1

I love riding. I have been riding for ten years. The best thing to do to find a riding stable that you would like to ride at is either ask around or go to local tack stores, there are normally advertisements there. Also if you are interested in one day showing go to a horse show, talk to some of the riders, get advice from them. Trust me, we like getting people started in horse back riding. The sport isn't given as much credability as it deserves. What you wear depends on the style of riding you do.

English: Jodphurs or Breeches(the tight riding pants)

                Either paddock boots or tall boots or any type of boot as long as it has a heel.

                  and the most important a helmet that fits well

Western: Jeans

                 Boots with a heel

                 and a helmet

The lessons you take depends on teh stable you choose. If the barn offers group lessons start off in a beginner group, of course.

If the barn also offers Private lessons then I recommend taking those at first, yes riding with other people is fun however you learn more at first in private lessons.

If you are interested in learning more than just how to ride. i.e. different parts of the horse body systems of the horse and other very good things that are key in horse management. Then I also suggest joining the United States Pony Club. Yes it sounds cheesy but you learn a lot and its a good place for kids to learn.

Answer 2

it is very fun well first ask one of your friends of someone you now if they ride what barn they ride at if none of them do go on google and type in horse back riding lessons and find a barn also you will need boots with a heel a helmet  ad riding pants  and the riding coach will tell you what class to go in cause your just starting hopfully that helps xoxo

Answer 3

It depends were you live. I live in the Sacramento area and I'm 13 and I take lessons in Granite Bay. The name of the stables is Royal Oaks Equestrian farm. Its a new stable and its really cool.

You need breeches,any boots with a heel., a helmet and if you don't have your own horse they let you use one of there horses and they also let you use their tack. Its really fun. If you have any more questions just ask me.

Answer 4

Where jeans no shorts, regular shoes are preferable over hiking boots due to comfortability.  Bring water and jus incase you think you might fall which is rare bring a riders helmet.

Answer 5

You need to take some lessons at a local barn or stable- and group lessons are much less expensive than private ones. You don't need any special equipment in the begining except for a good pair of shoes or boots with a heel of at least 2 inches, and a well fitted riding helmet. You can wear jeans for both English and Western lessons- and they are much more comfortable and less expensive than breeches. ( You won't be wearing Jodphurs, as one of the other writers suggested- you are much too old for that at 14 years of age. Jodphurs are for little kids, generally under the age of 10.) Check the phone book for the names and numbers of barns in your area which offer lessons, and sign up for few.  Make sure that you dress for the weather when you go- if it's warm, wear light clothing, and use some sunscreen. If it's cold, wear a jacket- but take care that it isn't one that rattles when you put it on or take it off- horses tend to be spooked by that kind of noise. Also, NEVER, EVER, wear sneakers, tivas, flip-flops, or any other type of open toed or flat soled shoe !!! Flat shoes are VERY dangerous when you ride- it is too easy to get a foot caught in a stirrup if you should fall, especially if you ride in an English saddle. This can result in your being dragged- and there are riders who have died that way !!! Open toed shoes are equally dangerous because they can result in broken toes or feet if you get your foot stepped on by the horse. So sign up for some lessons, listen to your instructors, make sure you follow the basic safety rules, and have fun !!!!