Do you want to ride a horse, but don't know where to start? You're certainly not alone. Maybe you're wondering what you need, how a first lesson goes and what exactly you should pay attention to. Don't worry, we'll help you on your way. In this blog, we'll take you step by step and explain what you can expect from riding lessons for beginners. That way, you'll soon be able to get into the saddle with peace of mind and full of confidence!
Your first riding lesson
As a beginner, you may feel insecure about your posture or be afraid of falling. You don’t know what to expect, and you may also worry about what to wear and whether you are “good enough”. This is completely normal. Every rider starts at the bottom, even the riders you now see riding with confidence. And that is exactly why there are special riding lessons for beginners. A riding lesson for beginners is aimed at guiding you step by step!
What do horse riding lessons for beginners look like?
During a first riding lesson it is all about getting to know each other: not only with the horse, but also with the instructor and with yourself as a beginning rider. It is not a problem if you have no experience at all, that is exactly what the first lesson is for. A good instructor takes the time to show you the ropes step by step, from the very beginning.
During this first lesson you will learn, among other things:
• How to approach horses in a calm and respectful manner.
• The basics of grooming and cleaning. From brushing to scraping out hooves, you will learn the daily care needed to keep your horse healthy and comfortable.
• Mounting and dismounting in a safe manner. You practice how to get in and out of the saddle in a controlled and calm manner.
• A correct and relaxed sitting position. A good posture helps you to stay balanced and ensures clear communication with the horse. Think of a straight back, relaxed shoulders and soft hands.
• Communicating with subtle aids. By small movements with your legs, hands and voice you learn how to give the horse instructions.
The emphasis is not on perfection, but on building trust, developing a feeling for the horse and of course enjoying riding.
Frequently asked questions about a first riding lesson
From what age can you start horse riding?
Children can usually start riding from the age of 6. At this age, they often have enough balance, motor skills and concentration to follow instructions and participate safely in a lesson. Some riding schools also offer pony rides or playful introductory lessons for younger children from the age of 4.
How much does a riding lesson cost for beginners?
The cost of a beginner's riding lesson varies by riding school and region, but on average you can expect to pay €15 to €30 for a group lesson of about 45 to 60 minutes. Private lessons are often more expensive, usually between €35 and €60 per lesson. Some riding schools also offer trial lessons or lesson packages at a discount.
What do you need for your first riding lesson?
You don't have to buy a whole outfit for your very first lesson. First, look around in your area to see if you can borrow something. Many riding schools will let you use a cap and riding boots. And sturdy leggings are often fine for that first time in the saddle. But be careful: Before you know it, you'll be in the saddle every week. Then it's nice to ride in clothing that fits well and lasts a long time . At Joline you will find comfortable and stylish riding clothing : sturdy riding leggings with extra grip, soft sweaters and breathable show shirts for competitions. For those who like to match their pony: our sets match perfectly with the pony accessories in matching colours. Each item is lovingly handmade, made from high-quality materials and made to last a long time. View our collections here!
Horse riding lessons for beginners are the perfect way to get familiar with the horse, learn the basics and above all have a lot of fun. We hope you have a lot of fun! Do you have any questions? Please feel free to contact us.
