A R E
Y O U
R E A D Y ?
When To Start Horseback Riding Lessons
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by Nancy Norton, Editor
Do you have the mental and physical strength it takes?
irls dream about ponies and horses, but at what age are they physically and mentally ready for riding lessons? This is a question instructors get asked all the time, and while there is no magic age to start lessons, there are some basic guidelines to follow in determining whether you are ready for instruction. Young kids may be passionate about horses, but that is not enough of a reason to start lessons. It takes a lot of strength and coordination to manage a horse. You will also need enough emotional development to be able to sit and listen to your trainer and follow directions. You and your parents will be the best judge of whether you have both the temperament and the physical stamina required for riding lessons. Generally, kids younger than six will not have the attention span or the coordination required of riding lessons. Many reputable barns will not even begin lessons with children younger, because of the safety issues that can develop. Even the gentlest horse can have an off day. It is a parent or an instructor’s re14
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sponsibility to make sure you are able to focus on your horse’s movements and actions as you tack up. Will you also be able to take care of your horse? There is a lot of responsibility involved in riding!
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When it comes to emotional readiness, you have to consider the extensive technical requirements of horseback riding. You will be getting a lot of directions from the trainer, as well as constant evaluations and commentary on your progress It takes a lot of strength and and technique. It can be rough coordination to manage a horse. to have someone always making comments on your efforts! Can you continue to pay attention to instructions from your trainer when you are feeling frustrated and tired? You always need to be listening and following directions from your trainer. Then, if a tricky situation develops, you will be ready and able to respond quickly and responsibly for your saddle safety. If you truly believe you have both the physical strength and the emotional stamina to handle yourself around a horse and in lessons, then see what your parents think about your ambition to take horseback riding lessons. Don’t forget that it is a privilege and not a right to take lessons; there may be reasons other than your abilities that cause your parents to vote Stock Photo against lessons. n
