Choosing The Right Riding Instructor

Choosing the right riding instructor depends on many factors such as your age, riding level and ability. Ideally you should choose an instructor that suits your riding ability and goals. Here are a few guidelines to help you in your decision:

• Are you a beginner? Do you just want to learn horse riding basics?
• Do you want to learn a new discipline such as dressage or show jumping?
• Did you learn how to ride but want to move onto more advanced equestrian riding lessons?
• Do you own a horse and want to improve your riding skills and your horse’s training at the same time?

Understanding your goals will put you in a better position to choose the right riding instructor for you. If you want to train for a particular discipline you should choose a trainer who is specialised in that discipline, someone who has the background and experience needed to help you excel.

You should also consider the location of the facility the riding instructor is in, is it within easy travelling distance? Is the place well run and does it have the necessary facilities for you to train in? Ask about riding lessons and packages, enquire about the number of students in the classes and the possibility of receiving one on one riding lessons. Check to see if you can take lessons on your own horse if that is what you require. Are the facilities safe and in good condition? Are there safety measures?

Ask about the riding instructors experience and credentials. Observe his or her manner with other students. Determine if their training style suits you or not. If you like to be constantly challenged choose an instructor who pushes his student. If you prefer to go at your own pace a more laid back instructor may be more appropriate for you. Try to talk to the students to see if they are satisfied with the quality of training provided. Does the riding instructor have a strategy for each lesson? Does the instructor cater to different riders? Some riders are bolder than others; does the trainer encourage timid riders?

Doing your homework properly will help you find the right riding instructor for your needs. Riding lessons should be pleasant and picking the right trainer will not only enable you to advance in your training, it will be a pleasant experience. There’s nothing worse than being stuck with the wrong riding instructor, it can turn what should otherwise have been a fun experience into an absolute nightmare.