Introduction: Start Horseback Riding
So you want to know how to start horseback riding—whether for yourself or for your child. Maybe your goal is just to enjoy occasional lessons, or perhaps you dream of owning your first horse one day. This guide will walk you through everything from finding a barn to taking your first lesson, leasing a horse, or buying one.
Step 1: Finding the Right Barn
The first thing any beginner should do is find a barn near you. Here’s how to make the search easier:
How Far Should You Travel?
Most beginners drive anywhere from 5 to 45 minutes for weekly lessons. If you plan to ride more than once a week, finding a closer barn is ideal—long drives can get exhausting and may discourage you from continuing your journey into how to start horseback riding.
Using Facebook Groups and Horse Forums
- Search for local equestrian Facebook groups. For example, North Carolina has the Triangle Area Equestrians group with tens of thousands of members.
- Ask friends and family if they have heard of any local barns
- Browse posts for trainer recommendations or ask your own question.
- Use horse community forums like The Chronicle of the Horse to learn about barns in unfamiliar areas.
Deciding What Type of Riding Fits When Learning How to Start Horseback Riding
How to start horseback riding begins with deciding whether you want English (jumping) or Western riding (ranch work, cows, barrels, etc.). If you are unsure or there is only one option, it doesn’t matter, you can start with either and switch later if you would like.
- English riders often start at Hunter/Jumper barns, which usually cater to beginners.
- Western riders may have different options depending on your goals.
Step 2: Questions to Ask When Learning How to Start Horseback Riding
Asking the right questions is one of the most important steps in how to start horseback riding. Here’s what to ask, and why:
How long have you owned and ridden horses?
This gives you an idea of their horse experience. Keep in mind: riding skill doesn’t always translate into teaching ability.
How long have you been teaching others to ride?
Experience teaching is different from riding. An instructor who has taught many students will have strategies to help you overcome learning challenges.
Do you carry insurance?
All professionals should. If not, it’s a red flag for safety and professionalism.
Do you compete in shows?
Not required, but instructors who compete often stay sharp with their skills. If they have students who show successfully, it’s a good sign of program quality.
Do you take students to shows?
If showing is one of your long-term goals, make sure this is an option.
What is your specialty?
If you want to jump, but your potential instructor only teaches flatwork or Western, it won’t be a good fit long-term.
Are you first aid and CPR certified?
Horses are unpredictable. An instructor with first aid training is prepared to handle emergencies.
Do you have certifications or credentials?
Not every great trainer has formal certification, but it helps weed out people who might call themselves trainers without the skills to back it up.
How many students do you have?
A large roster may mean they’re successful, but it could also mean they’re too busy for personalized attention. A small roster could mean they’re just starting out or have high turnover.
How long have you had your lesson horses, and how old are they?
Reliable lesson horses are gold. If a barn has older, trustworthy horses they’ve kept for years, it’s a sign of stability and safety.
Do you offer group or private lessons?
Group lessons are cheaper, but for beginners, private lessons are worth the investment. They help you avoid bad habits early on.
How long are lessons, and how much do they cost?
Lesson prices vary. Around $50 for an hour is average, but cost depends on location, facilities, and program size.
What do I need before my first lesson?
Some barns provide helmets and boots, but many require you to bring your own. At minimum, you’ll want a properly fitted helmet and boots with a low heel.
Step 3: Visiting the Farm to Start Horseback Riding
Once you narrow down your choices, visit the barns and observe lessons. Things to evaluate include:
Farm Appearance and Safety
- Is the barn neat and in good repair?
- Are riding arenas enclosed for safety?
- What’s the farm’s safety record?
Evaluating the Horses
- Are lesson horses well-behaved and healthy?
- Do riders participate in grooming and tacking, or does someone else do it for them?
Observing Lessons
- Do all riders wear helmets?
- Is the instructor patient and encouraging?
- Are students having fun while learning?
Opportunities Beyond Riding
- Can students help with feeding or care for extra learning?
- Are there ways to trade work for rides if budget is tight?
Step 4: Assessing Your Commitment to Start Horseback Riding
Horseback riding requires time, effort, and money. Ask yourself:
- Can I commit to weekly or more frequent lessons?
- Am I physically prepared to ride and build balance, coordination, and strength?
- Do I have the financial resources for lessons, gear, and eventual horse ownership?
A consistent workout routine can accelerate progress, but nothing replaces time in the saddle.
Conclusion: Are You Ready to learn how to start Ride?
If you’ve found a barn that meets your standards, instructors you trust, and you’re ready for the physical and financial commitment, jump in! Horseback riding is unlike any other sport—it’s fun, challenging, and incredibly rewarding.
In part two of this series, we’ll discuss how lessons progress, how to continue improving, and tips for leasing or eventually buying your first horse.
Happy Riding!
— Barrett
Want to learn more?
Click here for an article on why English is not called Eastern riding