Embarking on a journey into the equestrian world is an exciting and rewarding experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of our top tips for beginners.

Establish the basics

To set off on the right hoof, it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of horse behaviour and safety protocols. Understanding these fundamentals will help you develop a respectful and responsible approach towards horses from the get-go. 

Take a look at British Equestrian’s handy guide to help you get to know some of the language used in the horseriding world. 

Get started with lessons

Look for a riding school which can offer lessons tailored to beginners. Your instructor will be able to start you off gently and teach you some of the very basic skills you’ll rely on throughout your equestrian journey.

Our friendly neighbours at Shedfield Riding School offer an excellent range of lessons for all abilities including private lessons, group lessons, after-school clubs and Pony Club.

Safety first

Safety is a hugely important part of horse riding, especially if you’re inexperienced. Invest in a well-fitting riding helmet, suitable footwear with a slight heel, and comfortable riding attire. We recommend the Karben Sienna Riding Hat  for any beginner. It’s super lightweight and the bespoke fit ensures you are protected at all times.

For footwear, we love the Ariat Women’s Heritage IV Zip Paddock. Packed with great features, it has moisture-wicking and breathable lining to ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable. 

We have an excellent range of comfortable riding attire to choose from. Pop in store and our friendly shop team will be happy to help you find clothing and accessories suitable for you as a beginner. 

Building a relationship

Horses are incredibly intuitive animals and thrive on trust and respect. Grooming sessions and groundwork exercises are excellent opportunities to establish a connection and build a bond. We recommend the Carr & Day & Martin – Ultimate Duo Grooming Set. It is a must-have for easy grooming that gives great results.

Good luck, and happy riding!