When to Start Horseback Riding Lessons

ARE YOU READY?

When To Start Horseback riding lessons

by Nancy Norton, Editor

Do you have the mental and physical strength it takes? ”“G 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 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! 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 and technique. It can be rough 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 diIt takes a lot of strength and coordination to manage a horse. also need enough emotional rections from your trainer. development to be able to Then, if a tricky situation sit and listen to your trainer develops, you will be ready and follow directions. You and able to respond quickly and your parents will be the and responsibly for your best judge of whether you saddle safety. have both the temperament If you truly believe you and the physical stamina re- have both the physical quired for riding lessons. strength and the emotional Generally, kids younger stamina to handle yourself than six will not have the around a horse and in lesattention span or the coordi- sons, then see what your nation required of riding les- parents think about your sons. Many reputable barns ambition to take horseback will not even begin lessons riding lessons. Don’t forwith children younger, be- get that it is a privilege and cause of the safety issues not a right to take lessons; that can develop. there may be reasons other Even the gentlest horse than your abilities that can have an off day. It is a cause your parents to vote parent or an instructor’s reStock Photo against lessons. n