by Rebecca K.

Created on: July 17, 2009

Choosing to take horseback riding lessons, whether you're a beginner, intermediate or experienced rider is almost always a good idea. Instructors can comment on your equitation or form and help you communicate more efficiently with your horse. Frequent lessons, that are taken at least once a week, can help you master new skills and progress into a new skill level, not to mention all the confidence you'll gain. So, how do you make the most of it? We'll I've got a few bits of advice:

You'll want to choose a riding stable that has a good reputation and one that is fairly close by. Keep in mind you'll want to drive there at least once a week- if you can- for regular lessons and driving a far distance can get costly after awhile. You'll want the stable to become kind of your home-base, where you make friends and peers and maybe where you will board your own horse one day. Ask other "horsey" friends where they ride or if anyone knows of a good stable. That is how I got started riding.

Next, you'll want an instructor that you feel comfortable with. You'll want someone that will push you to new levels, but not too fast or before you feel ready. Having good communication is important with your riding instructor, discuss your goals and aspirations- make them realistic. For instance if this is your first show season ever, don't make it your goal to win year-end high point champion. That goal may be accomplished later on. Also, find an instructor skilled in your discipline- if you do hunters, find one that takes kids to hunt-seat shows, if you want dressage, find a dressage teacher.

Another important aspect of riding lessons is cost. At the very least, you are going to need some equipment: boots, a helmet, gloves, chaps and more. You may even want to purchase your own saddle later on so you have something comfortable to ride in- this is usualy done once you have become a serious rider and are thinking of buying your own horse soon. Find out how much per hour the lessons will cost and think if it is affordable for you. There are probably other stables in your area if one place is too expensive for you. You might just end up at a place with a less fancy facility, but probably just as good of an education.

So when it comes time to choose an instructor or riding stable, do your homework. Visit the place, try out a lesson for one day. Look around at other barns and hear what other people have had to say about the place. Having a great environment to ride and ride in is every bit as important as having the right horse under you. Good luck.

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