Switching to Western, Coach Advice??

Question

I am 13, and have been taking English lessons for 6 years, but I want to switch to Western. I am also planning to get my own horse soon, and would like to get a nice Western Pleasure horse. There aren't too many Western coaches or barns in our area. We only found one coach, but she is getting rid of all her lesson horses so that she can focus on more advanced riders who all have their own horses. She said she could give me one or two lessons and an assesment, but she can't take me on as a student. I'm taking lessons at an English barn once a week, but my parents would prefer I find a Western coach, because the barn is about 25 mins away from where we live. There is a boarding barn really close to me, with a few Western riders that I know of, who might be able to give me lessons.

I need to make a desicion soon. My options are: 1. Stay with my English coach until I get a horse 2. Get one or two lessons with the Western coach I found 3. Try and find another Western rider who could give me some lessons, until I get a horse. Any suggestions or advice??

*Note- please don't criticize me or my desicion to switch disciplines, stick to the question people!

Answer 1

I would go with getting one or two lessons with the western coach and then possibly go back to english until you can find a horse. I wouldn't go with the last one as you need a qualified coach/instructor.

Charlotte x

Answer 2

I was where you are many many years ago. First I will suggest that you take the few Western lessons before buying a horse. You may not like Western once you try it. If you do like it then consider buying one of the lesson horses the lady is selling. After you get a strong base in Western riding, then you can sell the lesson horse, believe me there is a waiting list for a good horse. Then buy your more expensive Western show/game horse. Another thing for you to consider is that I left English and fell in love with trail riding after 5 years of English show and jumping. I still love a good trail ride over the ring. You need to decide if you love to just ride or you really want to be in show or competitions. It takes a lot of commitment and sacrifice to win.  

Answer 3

i did that too,

i am not a coach, but i have been riding and training horses for about 11 years now (i'm 17^^)

hmm, well i'll say my advice first, is that before you go all fancy-shmancy and buying your own horse, take a few lessons with your friends AND the instrutor. this way you can really know what your getting into.

i'm not going to tell you that having a horse is a big deal(you should know this) but depending on what the horse does and what you will end up doing is essential.

if you do jumping or dressage, and want to keep up doing it, then you might be in a bit of a fix.

i still do english, time to time, and your considered a valuable/experienced rider if you can do both.

english will help you with your seat, and hands and everything, western pleasure is a good idea, but make sure your looking where you leap.lol.

if you want to ask me more, email me at

[e-mail]