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Though it is always the case that a rider should not ride alone, sharing an arena can be a somewhat-complicated task. To make the experience better for all riders and horses, a few rules of arena etiquette should be observed.

Quietly announce your entrance when there are other riders in the arena. This prevents horses (or riders) from not recognizing either you or your horse. Typically, you should stand at the doorway until the rider passes you. Then you may walk to the center of the arena to mount your horse.

Set jumps up on the diagonal. If you aren't the only person in the arena, it is polite to set jumps up on the diagonal so that your jumping pass doesn't disturb anyone using the oval. This way you also create the direction in a figure-eight pattern giving both riders and horses a chance to take the course working both sides.

Prevent loud noises of any kind. Do not shout or yell at your horse when others are in the arena, despite the horse's behavior. If there are disciplinary measures that must be taken on the horse such as using the crop or a whip, do so quietly (or better yet, remove the horse from the arena to discipline). Also, keep voice commands quiet so that they do not interfere with other horses.

No other animals or children. Children and animals on the premises can startle a horse or distract them from their course. It can be displeasing to riders to feel that they must watch for a child when making the rounds. It is also dangerous to have children on the premises unless they are not under direct supervision.

Try not to schedule your riding times while there are classes in session. This not only disrupts lessons, but instruction typically congests the arena and, with many fits and starts, it can get oppressively crowded.

Keep a horse length between you and the rider ahead of you. Keep at least two lengths for any jumping pass. Always try to run the horses in the same direction. Slower horses can trot on the inside track while the faster ones can canter on the outside one.

If there is an accidental dismount (if a rider falls off), all riders should dismount and steady their horses. If the rider is injured, call 911 and instruct the fallen rider not to move his/her head or neck. If possible, have someone try to steady the unmounted horse.

Always wear proper boots and a safety helmet. Though they can often feel cumbersome and frustrating, it is good practice and good etiquette to share the same rules across the board.

Clean up when you are finished. Clean the manure and rake the dirt. Put away all jumps and take any refreshments or snacks that you may have brought for you or your horse. Throw trash away.

Follow the arena rules. Most arenas have rules posted for the safety of both horses and riders. It is always a good idea to follow them and kindly remind others to follow them as well. A well-oiled machine runs much more efficiently!

The most common reason for a large group of people to be using an arena is because of unfavorable weather. Be reminded that all sounds such as rain, hail, thunder, or ice chunks melting and sliding off of the roof, are amplified by the acoustics of the large building. It is not uncommon for horses to be spooked by the strange and loud sounds of the weather's conditions. Be wary of your horses and others during potentially-loud times.

Following the rules of etiquette make riding not only safer but a more enjoyable experience as well. Meeting new horses (and their riders) can be a wonderful part of growing the stable family. There may be a time when you need to ask for assistance or advice when it comes the care and maintenance of your horse, so make your friends in the arena by doing things the "right" way.

Learn more about this author, Lois Libel.
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