Returning to Horse Riding as an Adult: A Practical Guide
Introduction: Embracing Horse Riding as an Adult
Horse riding is a fulfilling pastime that many adults choose to return to after years away. Whether childhood circumstances or life’s demands held you back, there’s no age limit to enjoying equestrian pursuits. As adult riders, we bring patience, maturity, and a unique perspective to this sport. If you’re considering rediscovering horse riding, this guide will help you approach it safely and confidently.
Getting Ready: Assessing Your Fitness and Health
Before getting back in the saddle, it’s vital to ensure your body is ready. Riding requires a blend of strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Consulting your GP before starting is wise, especially if you have any health concerns.
Improving flexibility through regular stretching can enhance your range of motion. If you struggle with flexibility, visiting a professional physiotherapist or attending classes at FE colleges, which often offer student-supervised sessions at reduced rates, can help.
Cardiovascular fitness is also important. Activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, or following gradual 5K running plans improve stamina safely. Note that many riding stables have weight limits, typically around 12 stone, sometimes higher. If needed, gently working toward a healthy weight will support horse welfare and your riding experience.
Core strength is key for balance and control. Practising Pilates or yoga can effectively build these muscles, making riding more comfortable and safe.
Equipping Yourself: Essential Kit for Adult Riders
Using the right equipment dramatically improves your comfort and safety. The three essentials are:
- An approved riding helmet to protect your head.
- Proper riding boots that secure your foot and ankle. Trainers are not suitable.
- Comfortable riding trousers or tracksuit bottoms that don’t restrict movement.
Women should also invest in a reliable sports bra, providing necessary support while riding.
You may be able to borrow or hire helmets and boots at your local riding school, but adult sizes can be limited, so check availability in advance. If you plan to progress beyond beginner lessons, consider purchasing a body protector for added safety.
Starting Out: Finding the Right Instruction and Lessons
It can be daunting to join group lessons dominated by younger riders. Many schools offer private or small-group sessions, often discounted during off-peak times like school hours. This one-on-one attention helps build confidence without pressure.
Don’t hesitate to start on the lead rein or at a beginner-friendly pace. Everyone began somewhere, and adult learning is a rewarding process. Choose an instructor you trust and feel comfortable with; if the match isn’t right, it’s perfectly okay to try another. Online forums are valuable resources for adult-friendly instructor recommendations.
Building Skills and Confidence in the Saddle
When riding, you may initially feel tense and stiff. Relaxation is crucial—focus on your breathing and enjoy gradual progress. Each ride improves your stability and connection with the horse.
It’s normal to feel sore after lessons; gentle walking and a warm bath soothe muscles and joints. Take any pain seriously and allow adequate recovery to avoid injury.
Exploring Equestrian Disciplines and Next Steps
Horse riding offers various disciplines from leisurely hacking along trails to competitive sports like dressage or show jumping. Think about your goals and enjoy sampling different styles as your skills develop.
Remember, the journey is uniquely yours—age brings wisdom and self-awareness that enhance the experience. Enjoy every moment in the saddle.
To explore horses for sale or find a suitable horse to start your return journey, visit horses for sale to connect with reputable breeders and sellers.
