Can You Start Horse Riding As An Adult?
Are you drawn to the world of horse riding, perhaps inspired by the excitement of racing or the grace of equestrian events you’ve seen on television? Whether you’re an admirer from afar or someone who dabbled in lessons as a child and now seeks to reignite that passion as an adult, the allure of horse riding is undeniable. Once you embark on this journey, it can evolve into a lifelong devotion. Yet, for newcomers, the prospect of horse riding can feel daunting, surrounded by persistent misconceptions. Many believe it requires substantial wealth or ownership of a horse to engage regularly. However, the reality is far more inclusive and affordable than commonly perceived. Riding welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering an accessible path to exploration. Moreover, the rewards of horse riding extend beyond the saddle, enriching both body and spirit. If you’re considering diving into the world of horse riding, you’re likely already intrigued by its allure. However, if you’re still on the fence, here are seven compelling benefits to sway your decision:
Effective Exercise in Disguise: While some may underestimate the physical demands of horse riding, it’s far from a leisurely activity where the horse does all the work. In fact, it’s a highly effective workout. An hour of steady horse riding can torch anywhere from 250 to 400 calories, and more intense sessions with trotting, cantering, and galloping can ramp that up to 550 to 700 calories per session. It’s no surprise that dedicated equestrians are often in top physical condition.Moreover, riding strengthens and conditions the body. To maintain balance and stay in the saddle, riders must engage their core, pelvic muscles, and inner thighs. Constantly adjusting one’s position to match the horse’s gait enhances posture, balance, and coordination. And the physical benefits extend beyond the saddle; activities like mucking out stables and carrying hay and tack provide additional exercise.
The best part? Time spent with horses flies by, making the workout feel more like a joyous adventure than a chore.
Boosts Confidence: Learning to ride a horse isn’t just about mastering a new skill; it’s also about gaining confidence. As you become proficient in the basics, establish trust with your horse, and refine your technique, you’ll experience a significant confidence boost. This newfound self-assurance on horseback can spill over into other areas of your life, enhancing your overall sense of self-esteem.
Mood Enhancement: Horse riding offers a trifecta of mood-boosting benefits: spending time with animals, enjoying the outdoors, and engaging in regular exercise. These factors are well-known for their positive effects on mood and long-term mental health. If you’re seeking a hobby with a built-in feel-good factor, horse riding checks all the boxes.
Therapeutic Effects: The therapeutic benefits of spending time around horses are widely recognized. Equine therapy is often utilized to assist individuals dealing with anxiety, mental health conditions, or sensory difficulties. Some smaller horse breeds, such as Shetlands, are even trained as therapy animals, visiting schools, care homes, and hospitals to provide comfort and calmness. If you’re craving more tranquility in your life, horse riding can be a highly therapeutic activity.
Responsibility: While you may not be solely responsible for caring for a horse at a riding school, you’ll still learn valuable lessons about horse care as you progress. From handling horses safely during rides to assisting with basic care tasks like tacking up, mucking out, and feeding, you’ll gain insights into the responsibilities of animal care. This experience is particularly beneficial for children and young people, offering a glimpse into the commitment required for horse ownership in the future.
Social Opportunities: The equestrian community is known for its sociability, making horse riding an excellent way to meet new people. Whether you’re bonding with fellow riders in the stables, joining group hacks, or participating in riding lessons, there are ample chances to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for horses. As you gain experience, you might even consider taking part in events and competitions, where you’ll find a vibrant social scene.
Companionship: Beyond the human connections you’ll make, horse riding also offers the opportunity to form a special bond with your horse. Horses make wonderful companions, and many riders consider them as cherished friends or even family members. Through horse riding, you’ll develop a unique connection with your equine partner, discovering the profound rewards of this special relationship.
Getting started with horse riding is an exciting journey, but it’s essential to begin on the right foot. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
- Find a Riding School or Instructor: Start by researching riding schools or instructors in your area. Look for experienced professionals who can match you with the right horse based on your height, weight, and skill level. Ensure that the riding school is registered with the Local Authority to guarantee legal and ethical operation.
- Consider Cost and Location: Compare the cost of lessons from different riding schools to find the best value for money. Additionally, consider the location of the riding center. Opt for a school that is easily accessible to you to facilitate regular attendance.
- Evaluate Teaching Style and Specialization: Assess the teaching style of the instructor or school to ensure it aligns with your learning preferences. If you have a specific equestrian discipline in mind, such as dressage or jumping, seek out instructors with expertise in that area.
- Book Your First Lesson: Once you’ve chosen a riding school, schedule your first lesson. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the horse you’ll be riding before mounting. Building a strong relationship with your horse is crucial for a positive riding experience, so consider spending time grooming and bonding with them beforehand.
- Be Patient and Open-Minded: Understand that every horse has its own personality, and finding the right match may require some trial and error. If your instructor suggests trying a different horse after your first lesson, don’t take it personally. Keep an open mind and trust that the right horse will enhance your riding experience.
By following these steps and approaching horse riding with patience and enthusiasm, you’ll be well on your way to discovering the joys of this rewarding sport.
How long does it take to learn to ride?
The timeline for mastering horse riding varies depending on several factors, including the quality of instruction, individual aptitude and physical fitness, and the consistency of lessons. Learning fundamental skills like trotting, cantering, and controlling the horse’s movements requires dedication and practice. While some may progress quickly with intensive training, others may take longer to feel confident in the saddle.
Like any sport, perseverance and effort play a significant role in skill development. Even seasoned riders continue to refine their techniques and deepen their understanding of equine behavior. It’s essential to maintain a positive mindset and resilience throughout the learning process.
Additionally, it’s crucial to understand that horses, being living beings, can have off days just like humans. Patience and adaptability are vital when encountering challenges or setbacks during training. Embracing the occasional stumble or difficulty as part of the learning journey is essential for growth and progress.
So, while the journey to becoming a proficient rider may have its ups and downs, staying committed and resilient will ultimately lead to rewarding progress and skill development in the saddle.
Is horse riding dangerous?
Indeed, engaging in horse riding entails inherent risks, as horses possess their own volition and behaviors that can be unpredictable. However, mitigating these risks is possible by partnering with a proficient and seasoned instructor and refraining from rushing through the learning process. Ensuring your safety is paramount, and wearing a properly fitted riding helmet that adheres to the appropriate safety standards is essential whenever you’re riding or in the vicinity of horses. This headgear serves as crucial protection in the event of a fall or kick.
For added peace of mind, you may opt to wear a body protector. While it doesn’t guarantee immunity from all accidents or injuries, it offers additional defense against falls or kicks and can bolster your confidence as you familiarize yourself with horses. This extra layer of protection contributes to creating a safer environment for both rider and horse.
Who can take up horse riding?
Indeed, horse riding welcomes participants of various ages and abilities, making it an inclusive activity for almost anyone. Children often commence riding lessons around the age of six or seven, once they can safely maintain themselves in the saddle and reach the stirrups. Moreover, there’s no age cap on starting riding; even individuals in their later years can take up the reins. A notable example is the Queen, frequently seen enjoying horseback rides well into her nineties.
Furthermore, horse riding extends its accessibility to individuals with physical disabilities or special needs. Organizations like Riding for the Disabled facilitate riding sessions tailored to accommodate those with physical or cognitive challenges. Numerous events and competitions also provide opportunities for disabled individuals to participate, ranging from beginner levels to the esteemed Paralympics.
However, it’s essential to consider certain limitations that may affect one’s ability to ride, such as weight. As a general guideline, even the sturdiest horses should not carry individuals exceeding 350 pounds or approximately 25 stone safely. For further insights on this matter, refer to our guide on determining the appropriate horse size for your needs.
You donโt necessarily require your own horse to begin riding. Many individuals start their riding journey by riding horses owned by riding schools or liveries. The expense associated with horse ownership typically makes it a choice for dedicated riders with substantial experience who intend to ride or compete frequently. However, should you discover a passion for horse riding, owning your own horse or pony could become a consideration in the future.
As for the equipment necessary to commence riding, when you’re taking lessons on a horse from a riding school, you wonโt need to provide your own tack, which includes saddles, bridles, stirrups, reins, and harnesses. Nonetheless, wearing comfortable attire to your initial lessons is advisable. Basic safety gear may also be provided by the livery or stables. Later, if you decide to pursue riding more seriously, you can invest in your own equipment.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s essential and what’s advantageous for your early lessons:
Essential equipment:
- Riding Hat: A properly fitted riding hat is crucial for protecting your head during riding, especially for beginners. While many riding schools offer hats for beginners to borrow, purchasing your own after a few lessons ensures better comfort and fit.
- Comfortable Clothing: While a full riding outfit isn’t necessary initially, wearing flexible clothing is helpful. Close-fitting trousers made from soft fabric are ideal, with a loose T-shirt and a short jacket for cooler weather. Layering thin garments allows you to adjust for temperature.
- Flat Boots: For your first lesson, flat-soled boots with a covered ankle and a small heel are recommended. These provide adequate grip and traction in the stirrups while ensuring the boot wonโt get stuck if you’re unseated.
Nice-to-have equipment:
- Jodhpurs or Breeches: Proper riding jodhpurs or breeches offer superior comfort and grip compared to regular leggings or exercise trousers. They’re designed to prevent rubbing and slipping in the saddle.
- Riding Boots: Short boots are preferred for new riders as they offer flexibility at the ankle, aiding in learning to use leg cues effectively.
- Gloves: Thin gloves prevent reins from chafing and keep hands warm. Specially designed riding gloves reduce rubbing and chafing, enhancing comfort during riding.
- Protective Gear: While optional, some riders opt for a body protector for added cushioning and confidence, particularly when learning.
- Sports Bra: Women may find a supportive sports bra beneficial, especially during more advanced riding activities.
Once equipped, you’re prepared to embark on your horseback riding journey! If you aspire to specialize in a particular equestrian discipline, numerous options await, including dressage, show jumping, eventing, and cross-country. However, riding purely for leisure without competitive aspirations is equally enjoyable and common among enthusiasts. Whether in an arena or exploring the countryside, horse riding offers a fulfilling experience for all levels of riders.
This guide aims to furnish you with the necessary information to take your first steps toward becoming a rider. For further insights and guidance, explore our collection of helpful equestrian guides.