Getting the Most from Your Riding Lessons: Expert Guide
Riding lessons are vital for your development as a rider and the ongoing training of your horse or pony. Whether you're a novice or a confident rider, regular lessons form a key part of your progression. Even top-level riders who compete internationally rely on ongoing instruction to maintain and improve their skills. There is no stage when a horse lover, hobbyist, or professional should consider themselves entirely self-sufficient without guidance.
Why Continue Lessons Even If You Already Ride?
When you reach a competent and safe riding level for your pursuits, it's tempting to think lessons are no longer necessary. However, schooling horses and ponies is a continual process requiring periodic expert input to tackle performance challenges and schooling needs. Riders can easily develop bad habits or lose proper posture, saddle position, or effective use of aids without realising it. Responsible horsemanship and stable management is lifelong learning, a commitment owed to both yourself and your horse or pony.
Your lesson frequency may be lower if you ride casually or enjoy hacking, but you should not abandon lessons altogether. Regular instruction benefits anyone aiming to improve or compete, as well as those maintaining current skills.
How Often Should You Have Riding Lessons?
Lesson frequency depends on your goals, ability, your horse's training level, and how things are progressing. For many, lessons once or twice weekly may be ideal, especially when preparing for competition or mastering new skills. Some horse owners who ride regularly might have lessons monthly, a few times a year, or adjust frequency according to needs and challenges.
It's reasonable to have more frequent lessons when problems arise or competition approaches, and less often if you simply enjoy safe, confident hacking. Many keen riders find fortnightly or weekly private or group lessons help their and their horse's continual improvement. Ultimately, your lesson frequency should suit your circumstances and ambitions.
Choosing the Right Riding Instructor
Regular lessons with one instructor let them tailor guidance based on your and your horse's progress and challenges. However, attending workshops or sessions with different trainers can provide fresh perspectives and valuable insights.
Choose an instructor whose teaching style you enjoy and understand, who challenges and encourages you, and who is qualified and experienced to teach your level. You might outgrow an instructor as you advance; a good teacher will acknowledge this and recommend others to help your forward progress.
Effective Communication with Your Instructor
Your instructor cannot read your mind. Open and honest communication is essential. Share any difficulties you're having, areas of concern, and your goals—whether improving skills, training for competition, or maintaining proficiency.
If you're unsure or disagree with advice, ask for full explanations or alternative approaches. Being realistic about your abilities helps your instructor plan suitable progressions—for example, mastering flatwork before jumping heights. Your instructor should review your lesson's success with you and guide solo practice between lessons.
Maximising Your Lessons: Practical Tips
- Arrive Prepared and Dress Appropriately: Arrive early—about 15 minutes before—to prepare both yourself and your horse calmly. Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing and well-fitting tack help you focus better.
- Engage Mentally and Physically: Be present in the moment, treat lesson time as valuable personal learning. Avoid distractions and fully absorb instruction.
- Ask Questions: Inquire about exercises' purposes, techniques, and challenges to deepen understanding and application.
- Position Yourself Well in Group Lessons: Stand where your instructor has good visibility to provide focused feedback.
- Take Notes and Keep a Riding Journal: Write down key points, exercises, and feedback immediately after lessons to reinforce learning and track progress.
- Practice Consistently Between Lessons: Work on new skills and reinforce established ones to accelerate progress.
- Use Cool-Down Time Wisely: Ask for feedback and homework tasks post-lesson. If needed, follow up by message or email.
- Consider Themes or Monthly Challenges: Set specific skills or goals periodically to maintain motivation and focus.
- Use Video or Helpers: Having a friend video your lessons or provide feedback can help you see mistakes or progress more clearly.
By adopting these strategies — preparation, active participation, thorough practice, communication, and reflection — you will reap the maximum benefit and enjoyment from every ride.
Remember, responsible riding and horsemanship is an ongoing journey. These lessons are an investment in yourself and your horse's welfare and success. Happy riding!
