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Horse-riding has a sudden appeal yo you, you've never done it before and want to learn. Where do you start? Find a good riding school, ask friends whether they can recommend anywhere. In the UK reputable riding schools will be registered with The British Horse Society or The Association of British Riding Schools, these regulate the schools ensuring that instruction, horses welfare, insurance, buildings, etc are all up to scratch. Most reputable stables will have their plaque displayed and many will also display their instructors qualification certificates in the office too, don't be afraid to ask to see these if they are not. A good riding school will have a wide range of horses too, to suit riders of all age, shape, size and ability.

It is worth going along and talking to your instructor before the big day. Watch them teach a lesson, do you like the way they talk to their client? Are they explaining things fully in a way that you can understand? Don't be embarrassed to ask questions. As an instructor, I like clients to ask questions, it shows me that they are genuinely interested. Some instructors will be able to tell you in advance which horse you will be riding, if this is the case ask to meet the horse too, that way you can get to know him beforehand too.

The big day arrives, what do you wear? Usually riders wear jodhpurs, they are specially designed to stretch and give whilst you are riding and not to rub or chafe, as a beginner you won't be expected to go out and buy a pair but you should dress for comfort not style! A pair of jeans will suffice at this point, comfortable jeans with a bit of 'give' in the material. I would also recommend layering your upper body garments, maybe a t-shirt, with a jumper over the top, then a lightweight jacket if needed. You will find you get warm very quickly and it is an idea to be able to peel off the layers! A tip from me would be to wear comfortable, well fitting underwear too, I wouldn't advise wearing a thong to ride and always advise a supportive bra for the ladies! Footwear should be sensible with a low heel and ankle support. Wellies will be fine, but if you take to riding it is worth the investment into a pair of riding boots. Gloves are always a good idea, they will prevent any sores from holding the reins, remember they are usually made of leather and so can rub.
Finally, and most importantly a hat. Riding hats have to be made to the latest safety standards, you only have one head so it is best to look after it. These are expensive to buy but most riding schools will have one you can use when you first begin to have lessons. Most equipment can be bought second-hand, however I would never recommend buying a second-hand riding hat. Once the hat has been involved in a fall or has been dropped as the inner protective shell could be cracked or weakened and wouldn't offer full protection should you fall.
No matter how nervous you may be feeling, please don't be tempted to have a quick drink to 'steady the nerves' you wouldn't dream of doing this before driving, so don't do it before riding! Once you are in the saddle your nerves will dispel and you won't want to get off at the end of your lesson!

Learn more about this author, Tracie Anne.
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