There are a few things you can do to prepare yourself for riding a horse.Start working out to strengthen your legs and core muscles after you get the right gear for your first lesson, like long pants and a well-fitting helmet.You are ready to learn once you have prepared and scheduled your first lesson.
Step 1: Soft materials make long pants easy to move in.
If you wear jeans, they could irritate your skin and make it harder for you to move around.You don't have to invest in riding breeches right away, but you should look for pants that fit your body well.Yoga pants, jeans made of stretchy or elastic material, and exercise pants that are boot cut are great options.Don't wear shorts.The horse's hair could cause your legs to rub against the saddle.The material could cause you to slip off the saddle.
Step 2: Pick a shirt that protects you from the sun.
Unless you are going to an indoor arena, you will most likely be outdoors during your riding lessons.You can protect your skin from harmful rays by wearing sleeves.Wear a long-sleeved shirt if you can.Pick a top that has short sleeves rather than a tank top if it is too hot.To keep your body cool during your lesson, choose a shirt made of cotton.It's a good idea to wear a short-sleeved shirt under a long one at certain times of the year.If you get too hot, you can take off a layer.
Step 3: Hard-toed boots have a 1 to 2 inch heel.
To provide the best support, your boots should come up to your ankle and have at least a 1 in heel.The stirrups are more secure with the help of the heel.Tennis shoes are too soft and won't protect your feet if they accidentally get stepped on.If you don't want to buy your own boots, you can borrow a pair from a friend.If a horse steps on your feet, tennis shoes are too soft.
Step 4: It is important to find a helmet that is secure.
If you don't have a helmet, you can get one at the stable, but make sure to check with them before you go.You will need to buy or borrow one if they don't.Helmets protect your head and you won't be allowed to get a horse unless you wear one.Investing in your own helmet is a good idea if you are planning on riding horseback for a long time.You might sweat a lot if you share helmets with others.
Step 5: Don't wear scarves or loose-fitting clothes.
If your horse falls off of you and onto its back, loose pants, long shirts, and scarves could trip you up.Keep your outfit simple by choosing clothes that fit you well.If your pants are too big, wear a belt.If you are in a cold environment, wear a fleece-lined sweatshirt over your top to keep your face warm.
Step 6: Prepare for your first time on a horse by working on your balance.
It takes a lot of strength and balance to ride a horse.You can increase your balance by following a workout online or taking a yoga class once a week.You will feel more comfortable the first time you ride a horse if you have better balance.It can be quite strange to be so far off the ground.
Step 7: If you want to prepare yourself for your first lesson, do leg strengthening exercises.
You use your core and legs to stay upright and your inner thighs will get a huge workout at your first lesson because you squeeze the horse to change its stance.If you want to build up your muscles, do squats and lunges.You don't have to work out at the gym.Make a plan to work on your fitness for 20 to 30 minutes every day.
Step 8: Improve your horse-riding performance by building up your core muscles.
You will use your core muscles a lot as you learn how to walk, trot, and canter your horse.You can build your core muscles with yoga and pilates.Core-strengthening classes are offered at some community centers.If you like the idea of working out with others, or if you want the accountability that comes from having a prescheduled commitment, try taking one.
Step 9: Cardio workouts will increase your endurance.
You get in a really good workout when you ride a horse, even though it looks like it only involves the horse's movements.Cardio can be done by walking, running, swimming, biking, or using equipment at the gym several times a week.If you are new to exercising, do a low-impact workout to get used to it.
Step 10: Keep your muscles and limbs loose and relaxed by stretching frequently.
Stretching will help you prepare for the new ways you will be working your body at your first riding lesson.It can help prevent injuries.Before and after each workout, stretch your arms, legs, and sides for 5 to 10 minutes.After each riding lesson, you can make stretching a part of your routine.
Step 11: You can schedule a riding lesson with a barn.
There are classes taught by a Certified Horsemanship Association instructor.Call the stables if you can't get all the information you need online.You can add the class to your calendar once you make a decision.Will the class be a solo session or a group class?What is the cost for the class?Do they have a helmet for you?What level of knowledge are you expected to have?Do you get a discount for buying multiple sessions?
Step 12: You should show up 15 to 20 minutes early to meet your horse.
It will take you a while to get to the stable.If you get lost, give yourself some extra time so you can get to know the stable better.You will feel more comfortable if you have some spare time.Don't be afraid to ask questions.Your riding instructor will be ready to teach you everything you need to know, even if it is your first time riding.
Step 13: If you need a break, bring along a water bottle and snack.
You may get dehydrated from the sun very quickly.If you need to use the restroom, your instructor will give you a few breaks during the lesson.If you think you might need a snack during your lesson, keep a bar with you.Even if you are nervous, eat breakfast and lunch on the day of your lesson.If you want to get through your class, you need to eat a regular meal.
Step 14: Your instructor will teach you about horseback riding.
Instructions on how to approach your horse will be included in your first lesson.You will most likely walk the horse around to get used to each other.You should approach your lesson with an open mind and commit to having a good experience.If you have done research and think you know a lot about horseback riding, be respectful of the instructor and listen to their advice.You can always learn more.
Step 15: Relax and have fun.
You will soon be looking forward to your next lesson because your first one will go by so quickly.This could be the start of a lifelong hobby for you if you stay calm and enjoy your experience.Coming into the lesson calm and relaxed will help you both have a successful first lesson.