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Riding arena "etiquette" sounds like a fancy word which actually can be also explained as riding arena rules. Most public stables with arena have these rules posted somewhere publicly and you should read these rules carefully before entering the arena to avoid any confusion or cause any hard feelings or misunderstanding between the riders or even result an accident or collision.

Basic etiquette is pretty much the same in each arena and just by using common sense and being considerate to each other will get you far but there is few pointers that are common in most arenas.

My first advice would be to be courteous and friendly! Remember that everyone has a living animal underneath and not every movement is always under control. Always be prepared to the worst and do not get too wrapped up with your own horse not to notice what is happening around you!

Don't ride too close to the other horses, keep at least one horse length from another horse if possible. Don't gallop past green horse or a rider if you think this might cause a problem and there is a way you can avoid doing so.

Try to always ride to same direction with other riders to avoid any collisions or be sure to communicate with others about your plans. Be aware of the way to pass horses in the arena, mostly in US riders will pass left shoulder to left shoulder if you do need to travel different directions. But in Europe some arenas this rule is the opposite so if there is new riders in the arena it is wise to clear that everyone agrees which way to pass!

Faster riders usually stay outside so if you are doing slower work try to stay inside and leave room for others to pass safely. If you are planning to do only walking or slow work try not to be on a way if someone is galloping or jumping, again communication is the key, try to workout the schedule the way that everyone can use the arena safely and effectively but still being fair to each other. If you are more advanced, remember that everyone has to start somewhere and needs room and time!

Don't expect every rider seeing you and it is not impolite to yell if you are getting close or planning to pass, after all we can not read each other's minds.

If there is a doorway to the arena be extra careful while entering not to disturb others. Never mount or dismount except in the middle of the arena (out of the way!) or outside of the arena. Only exception is if there is a loose horse (most arenas have a "Heads Up!" rule for this) if you believe it is safer dismount your own horse immediately and walk him away from the danger.

Keep your dogs away, no loose dogs running in the arena, even barking dogs on a leash are not welcome in most arenas because they can scare the horses.

Don't ride alone without someone in the barn knowing in case there is an emergency. Know what to do IF there is an emergency.

Be aware of the weather conditions, this again is plain common sense. If there is snow or rain or lightning etc. which can affect other horses (or yours!) be extra careful.

Don't lunge your horse unless there is room for it. Follow the rules! Don't make any noises that can scare other horses like using your whip or screaming excessively.

Clean up after your horse, this will keep the arena in pleasant condition to everyone. Small thing to do if you follow after each ride but can escalate to a big problem if not done!

And again don't be stubborn, it is not worth it to start fighting over someone's mistake, everyone in the arena is there for the same purpose, to enjoy their equine companion and to practice their riding skills!

Learn more about this author, K Bert.
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