How to find a good Horse Riding Instructor

This page is to help you find a GOOD riding instructor. Here, you'll find information about what to look for in a good instructor, as well as where to look for one.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A GOOD INSTRUCTOR
- Listens to you and your needs
- Doesn't advance you until you are ready
- Has well trained horses capable of doing what you ask them too.
- Should be certified by the Equestrian Federation where you live.
- Has a barn/stable that is clean, safe and doesn't look like a ghetto.
- You may be able to speak with other people who are taking lessons to find out what the instructor is like.
- If you feel uncomfortable with the instructor when you tje first time you meet, it is a good idea to look elsewhere.
- The first lesson will usually be an introduction - the instructor will assess your riding experience and horse IQ. The lessons will be planned from that.


WHERE TO LOOK FOR A GOOD INSTRUCTOR
- Craigslist
- Newspaper classifieds
- Local horse publications
- Word of mouth (friends who ride, horse shows, etc..)
- Horse show booths
- Phone book (slightly outdated, but still useful)
- As with any business, it's a good idea to call the barn/stable before you visit them. This avoids inconveniences or missing the person you want to talk to.


WHAT TO BRING TO LESSONS

Of course, this depends from barn to barn and stable to stable, but it'll give you an idea of what to bring to your lessons - (double check with your instructor).

- Riding helmet (if you don't own one, a stable may be able to provide you with one until you purchase your own).
- Riding boots (these can be either tall or short). There must not be anything on the boot that could catch on the saddle or other fittings (ie: zippers, etc....)
- Riding breeches or jeans (breeches for english riding, jeans for western).
- A comfortable shirt (T-shirt or sweatshirt is usually suitable enough).
- Again, check with your instructor for specifics - what I just did was give you a general idea. Out of respect for the stable, please abide by the rules.


My own trainer has 20 years of experience and has trained Olympic riders. I've asked her to give some advice on finding a good horse trainer - here's what she had to say:

What to look for:
- Clients - how many riders does this person teach? Can they provide references?
- Personality: Sit and Watch a lesson if possible. Watch how the rider/instructor interact. Is there any change in the rider or horse when the lesson is over?
- Did the rider come away with any new knowledge?
- Was the horse/rider better at the end of the lesson?
- Did the rider/instructor communicate well?
- Were goals accomplished?
- Ask the rider about the instructors personality.
- Where did the instructor learn?
- Does instructor compete, or have they competed before?
- Do they do a thorough training (ie: some places teach how to braid, bathe, etc.. - some don't).
- What are the riders goals? Do they want to compete or just learn to ride safely?
- Choosing a specific riding style helps (ie: dressage, show jumping, speed events, etc....)
- Are you compatible with the teacher?
- Were you satisfied with the first lesson?
- Were you gaining knowledge, or losing ground?
- Heres another good idea: If you want to learn how to trail ride, do not go to a show barn.

Background checks are also helpful. A large number of students is good, but not always a solid indicator of a good horse riding instructor

Keep checking back for the latest posts - and remember - Ride Safely

Here are some horseback riding tips (all disciplines)

Horseback Riding Tips

Here are some horseback riding tips (all disciplines).

1. The cardinal rule in horseback riding is to keep your heels down. Why? Because it makes your seat more secure, and it also stops your foot from being caught in the stirrup should the horse decide that stump is hiding a snake.

2. The second rule is to keep your head and shoulders up and sit straight up and down or lean slightly back. This puts you in a secure seat for riding. For instance, if your horse bucks and you are leaning forward, you would find yourself on the ground.

3. If the sport you choose to ride in requires speed (ie: games, eventing), it is best to choose nylon-backed stirrup leathers (for english saddles) as these can stand a lot of wear and tear and are almost unbreakable.

4. If you horse is going strong on the forehand or is lazy, you might want to try leaning back a little with your shoulders behind the perpendicular. This will make your seat stronger (as long as your legs stay in the correct position) and push your horse forward into better movement. But be cautious; don't overdo this as it will put strain on your horses back.

5. Do not wear jeans when you're riding english. They will make your seat slippery, especially on a leather saddle. Additionally the seams can be very uncomfortable. Riding breeches are best because they are designed for riding.

6. Some horses have trouble riding through water. Have a friend ride a calm horse through the water while you and your horse watch. This will show your horse there is nothing to be afraid of. Alternatively, gently lead your horse through the water if it isn't too deep.

7. I strongly advise anyone wanting to get involved with horses to take riding lessons with an instructor. When I first started riding I didn't have lessons and therefore adopted an incorrect seat - that was 13 years ago - I'm still working on correcting that fault. Riding instructors will teach you proper riding techniques, ground handling, and other techniques that will benefit you greatly! Please take the time to read my "Finding a GOOD Riding Instructor" post.